Post by: GPS on 16 August, 2017, 09:06:12 am
Post by: vorsprung on 16 August, 2017, 09:18:15 am
Post by: Andy Corless on 16 August, 2017, 11:13:49 am
Andy Corless
Post by: GPS on 16 August, 2017, 12:54:54 pm
Keeping my fingers crossed. It would be a shame if it disappeared.
Post by: BrawleyBurst on 18 August, 2017, 02:50:43 pm
Post by: Bianchi Boy on 19 August, 2017, 07:12:30 pm
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
Post by: Doo on 28 August, 2017, 08:09:56 pm
Post by: GPS on 28 August, 2017, 08:14:16 pm
Post by: iddu on 10 September, 2017, 12:40:12 am
There's nothing in the AUK organisers planner as yet
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/18-249/
Post by: Clemo on 10 September, 2017, 10:27:27 am
:thumbsup: nice spot PatThere's nothing in the AUK organisers planner as yet
http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/18-249/
Post by: NeilP on 10 September, 2017, 09:04:26 pm
Post by: Ian H on 10 September, 2017, 09:17:51 pm
Same day as LWL....probably (hopefully) 2019 for me then.
They're generally on the same weekend.
Post by: LiamFitz on 10 September, 2017, 10:01:00 pm
Same day as LWL....probably (hopefully) 2019 for me then.
They're generally on the same weekend.
How do you think I feel?
Post by: BlackSheep on 10 September, 2017, 10:13:21 pm
Same day as LWL....probably (hopefully) 2019 for me then.
They're generally on the same weekend.
How do you think I feel?
Relieved
Post by: GPS on 11 September, 2017, 02:42:15 pm
Post by: Simon_A on 10 April, 2018, 08:14:02 pm
Post by: vorsprung on 10 April, 2018, 08:18:12 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 April, 2018, 08:20:45 pm
Post by: Ajax Bay on 10 April, 2018, 10:29:47 pm
Post by: Ian H on 10 April, 2018, 10:35:35 pm
Post by: iZaP on 12 April, 2018, 09:24:42 am
Post by: BlackSheep on 12 April, 2018, 06:33:05 pm
Post by: Ajax Bay on 16 April, 2018, 11:20:15 am
"Clasic Welsh 400, traversing Wales West then East. Good commercial controls used as far as 296km. Rest/sleep control at 341km."
NB info controls reinstated (cf absence last year) and if late night stop is Llangattock again (as in 2016) then the distance is 352k (cf 2017 at Bwlch (341k)).
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13068909 (but NB Mark's note above about disruption around Chepstow).
Post by: simonp on 16 April, 2018, 11:41:48 am
Post by: hippy on 18 April, 2018, 09:55:32 am
Anyone riding this and the Porkers?
Post by: GPS on 18 April, 2018, 11:26:18 am
I've entered this. I like Wales.
Anyone riding this and the Porkers?
Apparently (but not me this year after all).
Post by: hippy on 18 April, 2018, 11:32:33 am
I've not been riding much long stuff this season so going from 200k to 800k might be enough...
Post by: vorsprung on 23 April, 2018, 06:37:02 am
Its further than I remember 😀
Quote
The final on the road control is at Llangattock school/community centre. Please be aware this is a residential area - and keeping noise to a minimum would be appreciated. There will be rest facilities, but you are only some 600km from arrivee - so think twice before deciding to stop for any great length of time.
Post by: Ajax Bay on 23 April, 2018, 07:28:09 am
And I note this: "In the past, a few cyclists have decided to leave a few minutes early, anyone doing so will risk their ride not being validated."
Perhaps they were helpers, but a couple of fast chaps headed off at 0545 on Saturday from the Heart of England start at Cirencester which was a touch (15 minutes) precipitate. Perhaps they were concerned about the Cotswolds and hitting the max speed at the control at Alchester (65k).
Post by: BlackSheep on 23 April, 2018, 09:24:07 am
Just got the notes by email
Its further than I remember 😀Quote
Yes I was surprised by that, I think it's a bit like some other routes. The shortest route is 401km, but popular demand (such as the B-road choice between Monmouth and Hay) has added a bit of extra value.
Yes, an extra 0 managed to creep in, I was using my 'phone as laptop has damaged screen, sorry also for the "Android take" on The Mariners Cafe.
Post by: BlackSheep on 23 April, 2018, 09:40:32 am
Make sure you find the correct cardinal point cafe.
Sorry about that, it's The Mariners Cafe.
And I note this: "In the past, a few cyclists have decided to leave a few minutes early, anyone doing so will risk their ride not being validated.
For my part, yes a number of years ago, one of the more experienced female AUKs decided to set-off early and drag a small number with her, and despite trying to call them back. All I received was a mouthful. Hey-Ho, all part of what you're expected to take. How do I know they departed early, well I was prompted that the time was 5.57, and it takes a few seconds to get to the car park?
Post by: Hot Flatus on 23 April, 2018, 09:46:10 am
Post by: BlackSheep on 23 April, 2018, 10:05:54 am
I'd find that hard to swallow
;D ;D ;D
Post by: Ajax Bay on 23 April, 2018, 01:02:21 pm
I have endeavoured to reproduce your routesheet on RwGPS in case others find that useful (NB from the routesheet, not the tcx).
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13068909
404km going the shorter way over the top to Hay. Just my westimate, of course.
Post by: BlackSheep on 23 April, 2018, 01:35:31 pm
Blacksheep - in my limited experience your starts are always on time.
I have endeavoured to reproduce your routesheet on RwGPS in case others find that useful (NB from the routesheet, not the tcx).
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13068909
404km going the shorter way over the top to Hay. Just my westimate, of course.
:thumbsup:
Post by: Diesel on 23 April, 2018, 08:45:28 pm
Blacksheep - in my limited experience your starts are always on time.
I have endeavoured to reproduce your routesheet on RwGPS in case others find that useful (NB from the routesheet, not the tcx).
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13068909
404km going the shorter way over the top to Hay. Just my westimate, of course.
Thanks, that's really useful
Post by: Steve Orchard on 23 April, 2018, 09:37:35 pm
Blacksheep - in my limited experience your starts are always on time.Thanks.
I have endeavoured to reproduce your routesheet on RwGPS in case others find that useful (NB from the routesheet, not the tcx).
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13068909
404km going the shorter way over the top to Hay. Just my westimate, of course.
Is Monmouth to Hay the only section where route sheet and tcx vary?
Which is the nicer/more scenic version?
Sent from my SM-A320FL using Tapatalk
Post by: Ajax Bay on 23 April, 2018, 11:01:52 pm
So far as I can tell that's the only variation (tho' check the pre-Tintern descent on the tcx). I rode the Golden Valley route in 2016 because I thought the higher road looked harder, so turned right to Grosmont where the group went left to Pandy. But in 2017 (to try out both routes) I rode up through Michaelchurch which is a more scenic road (and 3km shorter). Don't know which is faster, but Flatus OTP has opined elsewhere that the B road is and he's probably right. Quite likely to still be riding in a group and that's probably easier done on the B road. But the views on the high road are much better, the surface is not bad and minimal traffic (cf B road)) with mostly good sight lines means one can be sociable without constant calls of 'car up'. HTHBlacksheep - in my limited experience your starts are always on time.Thanks.
I have endeavoured to reproduce your routesheet on RwGPS in case others find that useful (NB from the routesheet, not the tcx).
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/13068909
404km going the shorter way over the top to Hay. Just my westimate, of course.
Is Monmouth to Hay the only section where route sheet and tcx vary?
Which is the nicer/more scenic version?
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 24 April, 2018, 08:14:56 am
I could book in for the Friday night but that leaves me with nowhere to get some sleep before the journey home.
We can sleep in the hall at arrivee? Can we leave sleeping mat and bag there at the start? What about sleeping at llangatock? The notes suggest pushing on to the finish but one hall is much the same as another and sleeping first allows riding the last section in daylight.
Keen to do this ride but can't justify £160 on accommodation.
Post by: hippy on 24 April, 2018, 09:25:11 am
vs. the same thing but using trains and taking a bivvy or find cheaper hotel instead of sleeping in the car after the Cymru.
Maybe a few people in the same situation could split a room?
Post by: Manotea on 24 April, 2018, 09:32:20 am
My first stay will be for the BCM. If works out then maybe in future could book a whole dorm for the event.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 24 April, 2018, 11:04:20 am
Post by: nolongertries on 24 April, 2018, 11:05:31 am
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 24 April, 2018, 11:23:17 am
Try http://greenmanbackpackers.co.uk/chepstow-accommodation/Looks perfect. I have contacted them.
My first stay will be for the BCM. If works out then maybe in future could book a whole dorm for the event.
Post by: Nuncio on 24 April, 2018, 01:22:03 pm
Quote
A40 both ways closed due to collapsed culvert between Heol Rhos (Llandovery) and A482 (Llanwrda). Road has been closed since just after 18:00 on Wednesday 18th April . Sink hole is outside the Blaenos Nursing Home.Until 0:00 on 28th April. Diversion: Along the A4069 via Llangadog
http://www.southwalesguardian.co.uk/li/traffic_and_travel.detail.12079807/ (http://www.southwalesguardian.co.uk/li/traffic_and_travel.detail.12079807/)
Post by: Ajax Bay on 24 April, 2018, 02:16:12 pm
Looks like you'll have some nice new tarmac between Llandovery and Llanwrda.I took this road https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27317219 (https://ridewithgps.com/routes/27317219) last year which would bypass the 'new tarmac'. Some hills.QuoteA40 both ways closed . . . until 0:00 on 28th April. Diversion: Along the A4069 via Llangadog
Llandovery to Maestwynog (A482)
150 N from control on A40, $ Llandeilo
151.3 Cross br and imm R $ Cilycwm
152.6 L @ T $ Porthyrhyd
161 R onto A482, $ none, to CWMANN.
Post by: hippy on 25 April, 2018, 09:33:28 pm
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 25 April, 2018, 10:08:13 pm
£140ish for trains so looks like I'm driving. Stupid country.I believe in welsh the Y is a short U sound, and the U is a I sound, so I think it is "Come - Ree"
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
Post by: hippy on 25 April, 2018, 10:28:14 pm
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/e2kt2zLXTFq1vveIZNNjQFTWEu_4h8IR8-yNllOn9ETwbIwtC0cvfz_ojja125n17pKtqfvDgwWlNHOdlbky6UgLGacqp_15zwHOxEg7PbPwKlyTvwZxRdEWg6hf__Vt255U5AclgCx1APzjaVzUerzfWxe8PbDIemhtBZXbnQuigIvRRWwRZOGg5vTDD9t5l6eGtgaeUk0DtQRG8Y8hOH1DHU61yhDT9QY_WIFTPKCy42kmn2xBSU1ADRorrghuOriY48uUrm0_1Oe0KUakrQLGqEwhvgc3DNfJmPdU8qb6dlb9Uik1xSOsO_a6XUclQK4V5vP5-zmGK_P68vkCqKkf0JPpFpQ1Kms2RZZ0YjM-R08sb1-tnbfi9P9cadET2dWcDTU9WZfvM9SH2vSrS1sluNEql7qORBNFhy4cmLzPRJQo8bA5M9mM1rnOPYQFXH_cQ3wIM3ZJhl1VkxU7bJVJJqG5wg1_x_3Ci8J9pID6qS1TfQogwACq6MLrbvlk9TjGfoMu6_ccSiXYK7Iul0TUc-oWo2z4jK-BwjMItkjd8AOzYB4RC0Zx7XTI4LpcgnJs9i0s1QyUC3gMJs5VQux5T_1rResnz_Dqg5s=w1072-h1025-no)
Which route would you ride?
Post by: JonB on 26 April, 2018, 08:51:04 am
Post by: Peat on 26 April, 2018, 08:58:24 am
Red = 39.5km / 565m
OR (if you're feeling keen)
via Gospel Pass = 42.5km / 695m
Post by: Paul D on 26 April, 2018, 09:54:18 am
Which route would you ride?
Ridden both in previous years. Blue route felt quicker but turned out to be slightly slower than the red route. I'd do the blue route if I was riding again as the Golden Valley is lovely.
Post by: Chris N on 26 April, 2018, 09:57:17 am
Which route would you ride?
Dotted grey line. ;)
Post by: hippy on 26 April, 2018, 11:05:10 am
I guess I'd kind of like to complete the most accurate Brevet Cymru route - was the original course more like blue, red or Gospel Pass?
Post by: Somnolent on 26 April, 2018, 11:12:26 am
Which route would you ride?
Ridden both in previous years. Blue route felt quicker but turned out to be slightly slower than the red route. I'd do the blue route if I was riding again as the Golden Valley is lovely.
Except for the potholes !
OTH the steep descent into the valley at the top end of red line can be 'interesting', especially so if the weather is bad (or has recently been). There's usually a few grazes on show at the bus stop in Hay.
Post by: BlackSheep on 26 April, 2018, 06:46:13 pm
guess I'd kind of like to complete the most accurate Brevet Cymru route - was the original course more like blue, red or Gospel Pass?
The event is on the verge of entering it's fifth decade, there have been quite a few variants and routes during that time. Many of the older events (or the re-introduced routes) it is not really practical to ride on certain roads now.
These variants shown only materialised because a few years ago, the road between Skenfrith and Grosmont was closed due to land slip.
Post by: hippy on 26 April, 2018, 07:41:16 pm
guess I'd kind of like to complete the most accurate Brevet Cymru route - was the original course more like blue, red or Gospel Pass?
The event is on the verge of entering it's fifth decade, there have been quite a few variants and routes during that time. Many of the older events (or the re-introduced routes) it is not really practical to ride on certain roads now.
These variants shown only materialised because a few years ago, the road between Skenfrith and Grosmont was closed due to land slip.
Which route would the organiser prefer I do? :)
Post by: simonp on 26 April, 2018, 09:07:11 pm
£140ish for trains so looks like I'm driving. Stupid country.
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
“Wales”. HTH.
Post by: BlackSheep on 26 April, 2018, 09:32:26 pm
Which route would the organiser prefer I do? :)
To be honest, I would stay on the B4347 out of Rockfield then take the first right after the loop, the views all around are quite sone thing. . Then left at the T to be back on route, then follow the Golden Valley.
But you've paid your money - so you take your ..........
Post by: Ian H on 26 April, 2018, 09:33:13 pm
£140ish for trains so looks like I'm driving. Stupid country.
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
“Wales”. HTH.
'y' as in 'put'; 'u' as in 'hit'.
Post by: Manotea on 27 April, 2018, 07:48:28 am
£140ish for trains so looks like I'm driving. Stupid country.
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
“Wales”. HTH.
'y' as in 'put'; 'u' as in 'hit'.
Cumry
Post by: whosatthewheel on 27 April, 2018, 07:58:43 am
Cumry
I would say it's more like CAMRY', cumry would have the wrong pronunciation in the north
Post by: Manotea on 27 April, 2018, 10:35:03 am
CumryI would say it's more like CAMRY', cumry would have the wrong pronunciation in the north
There's no pleasing some...
Post by: Peat on 27 April, 2018, 11:07:57 am
Post by: Hot Flatus on 27 April, 2018, 01:06:04 pm
Post by: Nuncio on 27 April, 2018, 01:09:26 pm
£140ish for trains so looks like I'm driving. Stupid country.
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
“Wales”. HTH.
'y' as in 'put'; 'u' as in 'hit'.
Cumry
How are you pronouncing that?
Post by: Ian H on 27 April, 2018, 01:31:55 pm
£140ish for trains so looks like I'm driving. Stupid country.
On another note, how do I pronounce Cymru? I've been told before but forgotten. Thanks.
“Wales”. HTH.
'y' as in 'put'; 'u' as in 'hit'.
Cumry
How are you pronouncing that?
Which is a trick question.
Post by: vorsprung on 29 April, 2018, 09:33:32 pm
In terms of "what route" I would like to do the boring B4348 via Peterchurch, having done a different but cruddy route last time (2015)
Also hoping that the current weather talk of snow is just talk
Post by: Ajax Bay on 29 April, 2018, 09:59:22 pm
1) Routesheet via Monmouth, Pandy and Michaelchurch 77.1 + 1048
2) tcx via Monmouth and Golden Valley (B4347 then B4348) 80.7 + 902
3) Via Monmouth, Llanvihangel C and Gospel Pass 80.4 + 1151
4) Monmouth, Pandy and up Monnow valley 75.9 + 1087 (shortest!)
5) Via Monmouth and A466 to Wormelow and then NW on the B4348 across to Vowchurch and thence to Hay 79.9 + 819
6) Via Abergavenny (via Devauden) and Talgarth 79.3 + 848 (via Usk is extra 3km)
See you on the road, maybe, and see Black Sheep at the bus stop.
As for snow:
http://www.xcweather.co.uk/forecast/builth%20wells
https://www.yr.no/place/United_Kingdom/Wales/Builth_Wells/long.html
Post by: hippy on 30 April, 2018, 12:32:20 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 01 May, 2018, 10:25:04 am
Just cleaned up the Specialized, tuned the gears and fitted the route sheet holder onI've just fired the route into weatherbagel with a 20kmh speed and the result looks pretty lush. No need to start talking about snow.
In terms of "what route" I would like to do the boring B4348 via Peterchurch, having done a different but cruddy route last time (2015)
Also hoping that the current weather talk of snow is just talk
Post by: hippy on 01 May, 2018, 10:30:36 am
I've just fired the route into weatherbagel with a 20kmh speed and the result looks pretty lush. No need to start talking about snow.
I'm riding. There will be snow.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 01 May, 2018, 10:48:12 am
Post by: Jorgan on 01 May, 2018, 11:24:29 am
I'm basically having a year off Ironman as I'm tired of the expense and all that hard training, that leaves little time for enjoyment where the long solo rides are concerned...head down over the tri-bars grinding away. I fancied a different challenge, and something that would be an adventure; something I'm not totally convinced I might finish. It's certainly brought the planner out in me, which after 20 years in the forces I'm loving 8) Fitness isn't a worry, but the attrition on my body of spending a day on the bike is. So we shall see how it goes.....
Obviously my research also led me to the YouTube sensation that is Adam Watkins :P See you on Saturday.
Post by: hippy on 01 May, 2018, 12:03:04 pm
Post by: Peat on 01 May, 2018, 12:05:12 pm
I will if you will.
(I won't)
Post by: hippy on 01 May, 2018, 12:08:40 pm
Post by: Jorgan on 01 May, 2018, 12:40:46 pm
Well if you can race 180k I'm sure you can ride 400k. Just leave the sleevless at home
Sleeveless in Triathlon is so 10 years ago!
Post by: hippy on 01 May, 2018, 12:50:41 pm
Sleeveless in Triathlon is so 10 years ago!
*cough* Lionel Sanders *cough*
Post by: Jorgan on 01 May, 2018, 04:38:13 pm
*cough* Lionel Sanders *cough*
But he's living in 1983. It's all about beards now, not 'taches.
Took my bike out this afternoon to make sure all the Audax gubbins stays attached, particularly the heath robinson mount I've had to make to mount both my Garmin (and charge it OTG) and the very expensive Lumicycle light my mate loaned me. Glad to report everything stayed put. My 'endurance' bike has a one-piece flat bars/stem, so attaching stuff is a PITA.
I guess now I've admitted my bike has a one-piece bar, I'm going to be stoned? ;D
Post by: hippy on 01 May, 2018, 05:02:23 pm
Post by: hippy on 01 May, 2018, 05:04:38 pm
"it gets cold at night" and "the Garmin won't last >200k" and "where did all my bottle cages go?"
Post by: Jeff E on 01 May, 2018, 08:26:36 pm
Post by: Ajax Bay on 03 May, 2018, 12:14:01 am
Post by: Jorgan on 03 May, 2018, 11:23:41 am
Post by: Peat on 03 May, 2018, 12:18:42 pm
Looking suspiciously good at the moment. We'll all pay.... Somehow.
Post by: Jorgan on 03 May, 2018, 06:28:28 pm
But then what did Delboy always tell Rodney ::-)
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 May, 2018, 07:06:44 pm
I will pay, simply for thinking it would be a good idea to make this my maiden Audax.
But then what did Delboy always tell Rodney ::-)
I suspect you'll be fine.
Unsolicited advice: strap on an HRM. Stay in zone 2-low 3 as much as you can, don't go in the red. You'll feel fresher on the final stages.
To make up for this, cut your planned stops down. Two sit down feeds max 25 minutes and two Spar shop raids.
Post by: Jorgan on 03 May, 2018, 07:19:52 pm
Post by: hellymedic on 03 May, 2018, 07:38:10 pm
You can optimise time spent at controls by doing something other than queuing, like using the loo or adjusting clothing. You can eat carried food while you wait and buy food for the road ahead.
Post by: Jorgan on 03 May, 2018, 08:28:43 pm
You will absorb food better if you are sitting, not riding. This will power your legs better.
You can optimise time spent at controls by doing something other than queuing, like using the loo or adjusting clothing. You can eat carried food while you wait and buy food for the road ahead.
True, but you have to understand the ingrained mindset from my primary hobby :) I've already recce'd various options on the Internet at least.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 03 May, 2018, 08:31:22 pm
My concern with sit down stops is waiting for food; any suggestions on places to that aren't likely to involve a long wait?The main controls, Llandovery and New Quay are quite efficient, but if it's busy...
Might be worth grazing in convenience stores, coops etc. There are places in Builth Wells, Hay on Wye but I'm struggli g to think of sit down alternatives in Llandovery. There are other places in New Quay
Post by: hellymedic on 03 May, 2018, 08:39:56 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 03 May, 2018, 09:43:42 pm
Hay: good little cafe down the ginnel opposite the bus stop.
Builth: Garage with shop on right as you come into town, or Little Chef opposite (or there was, many of those have closed down)
Tregaron: Co-op and park benches opposite
Post by: Ajax Bay on 03 May, 2018, 09:48:41 pm
My concern with sit down stops is waiting for food; any suggestions on places to that aren't likely to involve a long wait?West End Cafe is the control at Llandovery - at both 147 and 295. The Mariners at New Quay is at 237. The only cause of delay might be if a massive group of bikers get to West End just before you at midday (say). Both places have always seemed pretty swift and the portions generous. In the evening, the BC riders will be the West End's main custom (and they stay open late, specially (so it'd be good to patronise it anyway)).
At New Quay the 'Captain's RV' cafe is another 60m round the corner, if you think the Mariners is too busy (though you need to go into the Mariners anyway). Or before you make the final right down to the promenade:
"R, $ Beach, by Seahorse Inn -
and descend to promenade"
there's a 'Costcutter' store on your left and a pizza place on the right with a few seats.
As I recall nowhere to eat between New Quay and Llandovery.
Post by: Somnolent on 04 May, 2018, 07:31:40 am
As I recall nowhere to eat between New Quay and Llandovery.Nowhere for a sit-down but there is a shop (Nisa or Premier ?) open late just to the left at the crossroads in Llanbydder where you cross the A485.
Post by: Jorgan on 04 May, 2018, 08:50:44 am
I've been known to take a dip (with bike) into the odd canal so...I still have a scar on my forehead from such an event as a teen; MTB landed on top of me. No helmets in the 80s. The kids are a chip off the block, both ended up in Minor Injuries last year to have their head cuts glued/stiched 🙄
Post by: hippy on 04 May, 2018, 09:03:44 am
As I recall nowhere to eat between New Quay and Llandovery.Nowhere for a sit-down but there is a shop (Nisa or Premier ?) open late just to the left at the crossroads in Llanbydder where you cross the A485.
Londis?
https://goo.gl/maps/7zQhB9x1stn
Post by: Jeff E on 04 May, 2018, 12:00:00 pm
I have used The Filling Station Garage in Glasbury a few miles further on where you turn right onto A438, where there was a good selection of sandwiches, rolls and cakes on the shelves. There is then a Cafe a few yards down the road also on the right. Over the bridge and turn left with the route and there are Toilets down on the left. Glasbury seems to have everything !
Post by: Jorgan on 04 May, 2018, 01:22:43 pm
Post by: Jeff E on 04 May, 2018, 01:28:54 pm
Post by: Somnolent on 04 May, 2018, 01:37:57 pm
Londis?I was thinking of this one https://goo.gl/maps/kRc1HUe5PHH2
https://goo.gl/maps/7zQhB9x1stn
There is then a Cafe a few yards down the road also on the right.The River Café. Quite pricy, but very good quality.
Post by: vorsprung on 04 May, 2018, 06:58:44 pm
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 04 May, 2018, 07:08:31 pm
Post by: Jorgan on 04 May, 2018, 07:22:47 pm
as the forecast is pretty mild, I'm wondering if I can get away without a bag, just gillet, arm warmers, warmer gloves and shower jacket in back pockets..
Fortunately I don't appear to feel the cold like most, but being a virgin, I've packed like I'm about to invade Russia anyway. My plan is to wear a thin summer jersey under a Perfetto Light and stash the Perfetto when it warms up. Endura Pro SL jacket in frame bag in case I'm cold at night or something goes wrong. Hoping my mate's Lumicycle with 2700 lumen boost will be okay 😂
Post by: hippy on 04 May, 2018, 08:29:03 pm
I might ditch the bivvy and save it for Porkers. I was going to take undershirt, jersey, jacket arh crap I've just realised I need to carry that jacket.
I was trying to get away without a saddle pack. Doh
Post by: Hot Flatus on 05 May, 2018, 04:08:55 pm
Felt great, really up for it, great weather. Little group of us pushed on, shrinking to just me and Nik Gardiner by Hay on Wye. On the road to Llandovery after Builth I felt the right side of my glute locking up, with pain spreading up my back. I twanged a muscle near my hip at yoga on Monday and had wondered if it would come back to haunt me. It did. I had to bid farewell to Nik and stop and do some stretching. Temporary relief but not great. Made good time to Llandovery (11.10) and spent the next hour and a half working out how to get home.
Eventually decided on the lovely mountain road via Pontadawe to Swansea to get train to Chepstow.
On there now. Great day out, but disappointed not to get round.
Nice to see some people I've not seen for a while.
Post by: hellymedic on 05 May, 2018, 04:12:26 pm
Too much exercise...
Post by: Hot Flatus on 05 May, 2018, 04:16:35 pm
I still had a lovely day out, Helly, and got to ride a mountain road I've been wondering about for ages. Two ice creams at the top :thumbsup:
Post by: hellymedic on 05 May, 2018, 04:22:08 pm
When I did the Brevet Cymru in 1996, the water in my bidon froze...
Post by: Hot Flatus on 05 May, 2018, 04:26:48 pm
I associate the BC with good weather. I must have done it 4 times or so, but I have pulled out when the weather was crap. No fun if it's cold and wet.
Post by: hellymedic on 05 May, 2018, 06:16:23 pm
Post by: Hot Flatus on 05 May, 2018, 06:54:54 pm
Post by: hellymedic on 05 May, 2018, 07:06:01 pm
Post by: Nuncio on 05 May, 2018, 09:39:40 pm
a mountain road I've been wondering about for ages.
The Black Mountain
Two ice creams at the top :thumbsup:
Cresci's
A lovely day for both.
Post by: Clemo on 06 May, 2018, 11:17:09 am
Little group of us pushed on, shrinking to just me and Nik Gardiner by Hay on Wye. On the road to Llandovery after Builth I felt the right side of my glute locking up, with pain spreading up my back.Stupid boy ;D
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 06 May, 2018, 11:20:44 am
as the forecast is pretty mild, I'm wondering if I can get away without a bag, just gillet, arm warmers, warmer gloves and shower jacket in back pockets.turns out no, as I forgot my rain jacket, did have a jacket but too large for pocketses, so I went with just a bar bag, which then blocked me using my go pro, which is a shame as the wye valley was beautiful first thing.
probably for the best as it was very cold first thing, and patchy cold on the night section.
A lovely ride all in all, would have been perfect if it had just stopped at Llandovery the second time. not because there was anything wrong with the route, just that I don't relish the sleep deprivation and riding on the dark.
Post by: Peat on 06 May, 2018, 11:31:37 am
Edit - I found a wonderful oasis of a public toilet in Glasmont early on. After the water trouble at Bulwark, I had started the ride in *ahem* 'non-optimal condition'.
A salute to the nutters who did it on fixed. :-X
Post by: vorsprung on 06 May, 2018, 02:21:44 pm
| (https://i.imgur.com/BL6P9KJ.jpg) | (https://i.imgur.com/NbIvd1L.jpg) |
| (https://i.imgur.com/ghg6Hxn.jpg) | (https://i.imgur.com/3WHR4EU.jpg) |
It was pretty first thing with mist and early morning sunshine around Tintern
As the day progressed it just got warmer and warmer
Kites could be seen overhead spiraling in the blue sky
After a solid 200km in 9.5h start, I ate too much in Newquay and then had difficulties, eventually finishing at 4am
Post by: hellymedic on 06 May, 2018, 02:29:38 pm
I'm getting to sound like an old woman!
Well, I am very nearly sixty...
Lovely pictures!
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 06 May, 2018, 04:29:32 pm
It was pretty first thing with mist and early morning sunshine around Tintern
As the day progressed it just got warmer and warmer
Kites could be seen overhead spiraling in the blue sky
After a solid 200km in 9.5h start, I ate too much in Newquay and then had difficulties, eventually finishing at 4am
Not sure the chips are to blame. 2nd half just felt harder. I made tregaron at 15.00 before finishing at about 3am. Also control stops (for me at least) stretched out once the pressure of maximising daytime distance was removed. In fact tregaron (approx 200km) 15:00 llandovery return (approx 300km) 20:30 finish 3am so the last 100km and the two stops took 6.5 hours, probably just me though as loads of people passed me on the final leg.
Post by: vorsprung on 06 May, 2018, 05:52:01 pm
Was loosing focus for much of the leg to the penultimate control, and feeling the cold. On the last bit despite riding with some great company difficult to stay awake
Post by: simonp on 06 May, 2018, 05:52:34 pm
I've since done same to Tregaron and finish at 3am, riding on fixed.
This time I was a DNS and did rowing training instead. Nowhere near the kind of endurance to ride a 400k at the moment, I suspect.
You all had a lovely weekend for it.
Post by: Steve Orchard on 06 May, 2018, 09:46:42 pm
Deffinatly one that I will recommend
Sent from my SM-A320FL using Tapatalk
Post by: BlackSheep on 07 May, 2018, 12:05:29 pm
I'm absolutely spent. As above, first 300 was fun, thereafter it was a bit of an ordeal. I had sudden, unannounced, . . . . . . .Congrats on completing.
After the water trouble at Bulwark, I had started the ride in *ahem* 'non-optimal condition'.
Yes, the sudden lack of water at the start was unfortunate. And probably caused a lot of inconvenience for everyone. Not least the hirer of the hall that was coming in a couple of hours after the start.
I'm afraid the issue was caused by someone leaving a tap running in the toilets.
Another issue (certainly not specifically aimed at this postee). Was the number banana skins simply disgarded in the car park, when there were rubbish bins nearby. And between the departure and (but probably beyond) the A466/A48 island a considerable number of gel wrappers discarded in the road. Truly disreputable behaviour.
Post by: iZaP on 07 May, 2018, 12:17:28 pm
The ride was beautiful, got a puncture 70k going downhill, hit a pothole! the first 200k were nice and went by quick, the next 100k weren't too bad. I have mounted my supernova upside down on my tri bars, which wasn't the brightest idea, as the beam wasn't as good. The next 100k were interesting, I was riding with another guy and we could not find the Llandovery control at all! (not sure if my ride will get validated because of non stamp for this control).
Rode in at 1:15AM maybe, camped by the door until a kind rider offered myself and another person a seat in his camper van! Thank you so much for this and the gin and tonic! was nice to be there till the organiser arrived at the hall and I grabbed a quick nap. Before setting off at 6:30AM for the ride home!
836km in total for me, got home Sunday evening! Thanks everyone, definitely one of my favourite audax rides!
Post by: JohnL on 07 May, 2018, 03:45:21 pm
..... and we could not find the Llandovery control at all!
Eh? It was the West End Cafe again. Or do you mean the Llangattock one? That was a little tucked away, I managed to overshoot the turnoff. I felt slightly less stupid when I climbed back up to the turn as I met a group in the process of overshooting as well!!
John
Post by: RobD62 on 07 May, 2018, 06:03:51 pm
Almost full value for me, but I like to get my money's worth :)
I relised at at the lights that I had missed the right fork for the final control but easily rectified. I was a bit vague when a mate asked me if I was going ok as he exited the the control but easily rectifed with some nosh and regrouping!
Very pleased to get to the arrivee with my club mate having ridden several of the KM with him
Post by: iZaP on 07 May, 2018, 06:55:08 pm
..... and we could not find the Llandovery control at all!
Eh? It was the West End Cafe again. Or do you mean the Llangattock one? That was a little tucked away, I managed to overshoot the turnoff. I felt slightly less stupid when I climbed back up to the turn as I met a group in the process of overshooting as well!!
John
my bad, it was the final control at Llangattock!I had food at weest end the second time:) first time I just got the stamp and pushed on, as the queues were big due to other biker gang being there as well!
Post by: Jorgan on 07 May, 2018, 11:09:49 pm
As it was my first one, I inevitably took a bit too much kit. Ultimately that meant I had to wear my Perfetto jersey zipped down to my navel for much of the ride, as I had nowhere to stash it, as that space was taken by a jacket (summer jersey in a back pocket!). Didn't need a second power bank either, or the sports nutrition I carted around for the night section. My gooch fared surprisingly well, as did my hands and back/shoulders (this was my biggest concern rather than fitness).
I actually started a bit faster than I would have liked, as my HR was high Z3 for much of the first hour; but when I looked back there wasn't a soul in sight along the Wye Valley, so I kept with the group. Once past Monmouth there came the predictable split; I was at the back and had a quick opportunity to choose which group to go with. I went left (Pandy); the group was a bit larger, I had that in my GPS and the other group looked to be pushing a bit too much for my liking. It tuned out to be a very fortuitous decision. Probably around Michaelchurch, as our group strung-out on the back lanes, I struck-up a conversation with a guy I'd spotted earlier. He seemed to have all the gear, and a nice bright frame (and what the hell was he carrying in that huge frame bag?!). I enquired about the creaking coming from his BB/cranks and that was it... I was stuck with the guy for the next 340km :thumbsup: 8)
In the company of Sensei Hippy, I really did have a great time. Modesty prevented him telling me too much about his achievements, unless directly questioned and I must admit to raising an internal eyebrow when he was talking about a LEJOG record attempt (why was he was riding with me?!). Anyway, I used Google and you know the rest. After a pasty at Llandovery, it was off to Tregaron, where I moved into virgin territory after 180km. In Tregaron I met Audax Vlogger sensation Adam, and I think it was seeing Ajax Bay (Devon Jersey?) tucking into some milk there that prompted me to do the same, chasing down a couple of Eccles Cakes of all things (seen munching away in Adam's video). Onto New Quay, and was still good. I'd heard about the climb out of New Quay and was wary of eating anything. As it was the climb wasn't too bad, and I paid for that lack of solid food, getting a rough patch around 240km. I rectified this with the best part of one of those 500kcal flapjacks you get at garages, that I had on me. Much earlier, before Llandovery, I'd eaten the pork pie I'd also brought along; I would not recommend that as an on-the-go food, the peppery meat hit the back of my throat, causing me to eject bits of it from my nose. By the time we got back to Llandovery at 295km, I was really ready for some proper food, and hoovered down cheese on toast with beans, and a cuppa; this did me the world of good! Arm warmers on and headlight in place, we set off for the last control and I was feeling way better.
The last 100km was a world away from how I thought it would be, and the rough patch after New Quay was a distant memory. Darkness fell and it made a nice change to be riding in the dark, as well as being cooler which suited me (still just the Perfetto jersey, but zip up most of the time). We hit the last control around 10.30 pm I think. Sounds like we also initially missed that right fork to Langattock; Stu noticed quite quickly and we rectified that. In Audax mode, I had soup and apple pie to get me through the final leg :thumbsup: That last climb before Chepstow felt like the longest of the day! But on the flat bits Hippy/Stu was putting in some 35kph stints and I just hung-on. We were back at the Community Centre just after 1am, and the finish was, inevitably, not quite like those Ironmans I've done! 405km in the bank.
In the end, it did prove to be considerably more manageable than I'd thought, and again I have to thank Hippy for his company, which made the whole thing much 'easier' than it could have been. Whilst commitments mean I won't be a regular on the Audax scene, I certainly look forward to another one, hopefully this year at some point. Thanks again to those who offered me advice in the lead-up to the ride, much appreciated too!
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 08 May, 2018, 08:11:49 am
Post by: Peat on 08 May, 2018, 08:14:14 am
Post by: Jorgan on 08 May, 2018, 09:29:50 am
Congrats Jorgan. Where you Team Subaru?
Ha, yes we were the Subaru Owner's Club! Was it you enquiring about Hippy's Forester at Langattock? (Spec B Legacy way better btw 😋)
Post by: Simon_A on 08 May, 2018, 09:57:30 am
Wonderful weather and the early morning mists in the Wye Valley were beautiful. Felt pretty iffy between Llandovery & Tregaron but picked up after that and a good run home from New Quay, arriving in Chepstow at 3AM.
My clubmate Frankie's (not OTP) first Audax and ride >280k. Apart from buying a new back wheel in Hay (rather unexpected but Drovers Cycles were very good and quickly sorted him) he enjoyed the ride and couldn't get over how green eveything is compared to his native S.Africa :-)
Post by: Peat on 08 May, 2018, 10:05:26 am
Was it you enquiring about Hippy's Forester at Langattock?
Twas I!
I ended up staying there far too long faffing around with layers, water bottles etc. I arrived with the intention of a splash-n-dash as I was motoring at that point, but the offer of Treacle Pudding & Custard was just too good to turn down. ;D
Post by: hippy on 08 May, 2018, 12:59:04 pm
Awesome weather for it. Really enjoyed it. Particularly impressed with the ability to get apple pie at three different controls. Audax definitely needs more apple pie...
Post by: hippy on 08 May, 2018, 01:04:08 pm
Are you sure you rode with me? :P
Post by: Ajax Bay on 08 May, 2018, 01:17:20 pm
Hard luck, Flatus. If you're pulling something at your age goodness knows but you'll be wasted twenty years hence - so ride long and hard while your body allows. Glad you made the most of it by taking the Black Mountain road down to Swansea. Looking forward to that road at the 550k mark during the ACME Grand at the end on June.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 08 May, 2018, 01:41:03 pm
Good to see you, as ever, and thanks for your offer of map-related assistance.
Post by: Jorgan on 08 May, 2018, 01:56:57 pm
the majority found that scenic section from New Quay to Llansawel the hardest
I'm hoping the absence of the word 'least' is your SOH ;D
Post by: BrawleyBurst on 10 May, 2018, 06:08:04 pm
This time I vowed to at least follow the route and I was carrying the expectations of my sponsors who had pledged £1,300 on me in support of the Electrical Industries Charity, who had persuaded me to raise £1,000 during 2018.
I decided to use the ride as a fund raising venture, which worked pretty well, most people are over-impressed by the thought of a 400 km bike ride.
I have never ridden an Audax on a sponsored basis and I do not recommend it, it places too much pressure on you because you don't want to disappoint the people who have backed you.
I have never ridden a 400 km Audax successfully (apart from the failure in 2011 I did one of Gavin Greenhow's rides and was 15 minutes over the cut off, mainly because I was guilty of not keeping an eye on the clock).
So I had quite a lot on my mind as we left Mark behind in the car park at the start.
The first section was lovely but it was colder than I had anticipated in the early morning mist, Tintern looked absolutely fabulous but my fingerless gloves led to cold fingers so I stopped to change them and ended up putting my left foot down onto very soft ground and as I sank down I could scarcely unlock my right foot from the pedal and only just managed to avoid an ignominious stationary collapse into the verge.
That disaster averted I got going again and met up with Joe and Sarah from Pembrokeshire and Ivor from Coventry on the GPS route, I was off route on the route sheet route but they took me under their wing to Hay and we nipped along at a good pace.
At Hay there was a fit looking chap carrying his fixie with a horribly distorted front wheel, he was off to Drovers to get it sorted out, does anyone know whether he finished?
I made reasonable speed to Llandovery for the first time, the West End Cafe was awash with bikers and cyclists and I used to supermarket over the road to refuel.
On to Tregaron, the weather was prefect, I was there at 4.20 pm and that was 30 minutes before I arrived in 2011 so I was pleased and started dreaming about a finish within 24 hours.
I watched half a dozen cyclists head down the road on what must surely be the right route so I followed them and lo and behold I was now actually on route!
Roy Bishop had mentioned to me years ago that the section from Tregaron to New Quay had a load of hills and he wasn't joking. That 37 km was tougher than any of the other sections.
It was a relief to arrive at the Mariner's Restaurant and I had donned my rain jacket by then to stay warm in the sea fret which covered the coast and quite a bit of the land.
The 8 mile climb out of New Quay was not as daunting as I had feared although I was in granny gear for the first quite steep bit.
I missed a turning somewhere but my photocopied road atlas got me out of trouble but my Garmin gave me no help, I usually use a route sheet and since the Garmin made no sense (user error probably) I relied on the route sheet until the second visit to Llandovery.
I had made slow progress on this leg, having to stop at each line and check it in my stand light and I began to wonder whether the cafe might be shut by the time I arrived.
I rolled in at 11.50 pm and the lights were on but all the chairs seemed to be upside down on the tables and I feared the worst.
But I should not have worried, the wonderfully helpful girls manning the counter were great, they asked what I wanted and I followed the example of the rider ahead of me, who requested cornflakes and a milk shake, I also had a yoghurt and a coffee and shortbread.
There was a small group of cyclists in a corner so I joined them and at least a couple of them seemed to know what they were doing, talking about their experiences on PBP and other events rather beyond my comfort zone.
There was a young cyclist who arrived shortly after me and as he prepared to set off into the night I suggest that it might be a good idea to tag along with the experienced group, I was keen to ride with a group who possessed at least one functioning Garmin between them.
That was a good move, the experienced group navigated successfully and kept up a good pace - rather too hot for me at times but I hung on because I didn't dare lose them.
We split at one point after a stop as we saw another set of lights coming down the road, they all turned left so three of us retraced and joined the second group, they also knew what they were doing and kept up a good pace.
My only hallucination on this trip came when the white jackets of two of these guys looked just like ships' sails as we went along.
There was a shortage of cheery banter at Llangattock and rightly so since several prone bodies we trying to get some sleep on mats.
I set off alone but linked up with another group in Abergavenny and by this time the sun had risen and the world looked wonderful.
In no time even the climb out of Usk was done and I was rolling into the Bulwark Hall to present my brevet card to Mark and receive his congratulations on managing to follow the route and finish at 7.30 am.
An unforgettable ride, it will live with me for a long long time.
Thanks, as always, to Mark for organising and to the two understanding helpers at the final control and to all the cyclists who rode with me and helped me to finish a ride which stretched me to the limit.
Post by: Hot Flatus on 10 May, 2018, 06:49:00 pm
The fit looking guy with the fixie and a pringled wheel was Paul Rainbow. He and I shared the road as for as Crossways where he turned left and me, Vistaed, Nik G and somebody else turned right.
I was quite surprised not to see him at Hay, but that was because his wheel had broken about 6 miles previously.
Unfortunately he wasn't able to get it sorted and ride on.
Post by: Wycombewheeler on 10 May, 2018, 07:51:32 pm
Post by: Jorgan on 14 May, 2018, 10:25:19 am
Post by: Steve Orchard on 14 May, 2018, 06:32:47 pm
Who was the monster riding in deck shoes? :oNo idea but he had a very shiny bike
Sent from my SM-T580 using Tapatalk
Post by: pork_scratching on 22 October, 2018, 03:00:32 pm
- The Deck Shoe* wearing, Shiny Bike** riding "Monster"
- The "kind rider" who took pity on iZaP and the other chap and plied them with Gin & Tonic in my van
I apologise to all concerned.
* Five Ten Sleuth MTB Shoes
** My new bike is even shinier