Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: Moleman76 on 23 December, 2016, 01:21:10 am

Title: [LEL17] LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Moleman76 on 23 December, 2016, 01:21:10 am
I'm always happier to open YACF and see that something new has been posted in this part of the forum.

Saves me from reading the latest "motorized moron" posting about the other kinds of road users.  I do hope that most of them are nowhere near the route next July and August.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Deano on 23 December, 2016, 01:39:39 am
Anyone planning to ride LEL should note my 300 from Newby Wiske on the 29th of April, as it's an opportunity to ride some of the same roads and lots of the hillier bits of Yorkshire that you miss on your way north. It would be great training ;)

http://www.aukweb.net/events/detail/17-324/
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mattc on 24 December, 2016, 03:03:18 pm
I did my first parkrun in months this morning. I didn't have anything christmassy handy, so wore my LEL Volunteer T-shirt over a base-layer (it being almost perfect Xmas red, and it hardly ever gets worn otherwise). This resulted in the chap I raced over the last lap starting a conversation about Audax (and thence various cycling stuffs).

He is someone I have seen riding around town (on a recumbent) every now and then for 10 years, but never spoken to before :)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Graeme on 24 December, 2016, 07:46:25 pm
Family member thought LEL meant Laugh Extra Loud.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: postrestant on 27 December, 2016, 10:29:05 am
Will there be a 'free' reflective gilet?  PBP nailed this in 2015 -- distinctive design of stripes, decent quality, good logo. The result is years of good publicity. The Miglia Italia start looked a bit like it was the start of the PBP; everyone was still wearing the PBP gilets.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: alwyn on 27 December, 2016, 02:00:46 pm
Will there be a 'free' reflective gilet?

No. Nor will there will be any rules about reflective clothing, lights or helmets.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mattc on 27 December, 2016, 02:38:42 pm
Will there be a 'free' reflective gilet?  PBP nailed this in 2015 -- distinctive design of stripes, decent quality, good logo. The result is years of good publicity. The Miglia Italia start looked a bit like it was the start of the PBP; everyone was still wearing the PBP gilets.
2011 was the same! Mine has lasted since then, so I suspect we are still seeing 2011 gilets amongst the 2015 ones at big events.

It's certainly effective publicity ... but the downside was that groups looked like a clone army. it took all the individualty away, which is a shame at an international gathering of cyclists (known for their almost neurotic bloody-mindedness).

[See also: rants about shades+helmets ... ]
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: postrestant on 28 December, 2016, 12:13:48 pm
Will there be a 'free' reflective gilet?

No. Nor will there will be any rules about reflective clothing, lights or helmets.


I like that lack of any more rules than the legal requirements. No necessary connection, though, between providing a gilet, and insisting on more rules. And, if other events emulated PBP, the risk of clones (at night, or at the start -- few people wear otherwise) would be lessened as there'd be more variety of such gilets.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: The French Tandem on 28 December, 2016, 04:59:16 pm
^^ It's not a PBP rule, it's just a local law that says cyclists must wear a reflective gilet at night/ when it's raining. As far as I know, there is no such law in the country where LEL is held! PBP just help riders to comply with the law by providing a gilet.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: alwyn on 28 December, 2016, 08:14:43 pm
Exactly. Generally when organisers supply a piece of clothing, the expectation is that the rider is supposed to wear it. My predecessor tried this, and it was poorly received.

Otherwise it's £10 onto the cost of the ride, for a garment that not everyone will want. I could sell them alongside the jersey, and I did contemplate that, but I could't find an appealing garment for the right price.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Salvatore on 06 January, 2017, 06:35:48 pm
'Inaugurals' is how Bernard Mawson referred to participants in the 1989 LEL.

By my reckoning 3 of Bernard's inaugurals will be riding in 2017.

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Wobbly on 06 January, 2017, 08:30:16 pm
'Inaugurals' is how Bernard Mawson referred to participants in the 1989 LEL.

By my reckoning 3 of Bernard's inaugurals will be riding in 2017.


Do please name and shame. Or name and honour would be more accurate.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Bus Shelter Bertie on 06 January, 2017, 08:46:48 pm
'Inaugurals' is how Bernard Mawson referred to participants in the 1989 LEL.

By my reckoning 3 of Bernard's inaugurals will be riding in 2017.


Do please name and shame. Or name and honour would be more accurate.

I know two of the three. Myself and Mr. Salvatore. And I was so upset to see you'd missed the last place Mr. Wobbly :-(
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Salvatore on 06 January, 2017, 08:56:08 pm
I may be wrong, but I think SR Steve will be putting in an appearance

I rode the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th editions. Might ride the 8th to break the pattern.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 01 February, 2017, 01:25:38 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cygnet on 01 February, 2017, 01:29:25 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?

Late start permits doing Ride London earlier in the day and ECE to 1600km. Anyone else here mentally unstable enough to also be considering this possibility?

!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 01 February, 2017, 01:32:22 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?

Late start permits doing Ride London earlier in the day and ECE to 1600km. Anyone else here mentally unstable enough to also be considering this possibility?
!
Yeah, but I'm assuming that LBR will be in London the day before to register.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Not far enough on 01 February, 2017, 02:21:01 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?

Do you fancy riding down Dale ? You know I'd do it  :facepalm:
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 01 February, 2017, 03:36:19 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?

Do you fancy riding down Dale ? You know I'd do it  :facepalm:
;D I know you would.

Just ruling things out at the minute, I'm sure if I asked nicely they'd let me.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mattc on 01 February, 2017, 07:32:44 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?
Why not?

[ I dont believe the calendar organiser even needs to know about an ECE. ]
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cygnet on 01 February, 2017, 08:36:53 pm
Oh I see, more difficult because of registration on Saturday. IIRC Teethgrinder may have had an exemption on PBP, but he did have much bigger target than an ECE.

Ride home instead or travel down and register early for a late start on Sunday? Plenty of time to ride an Essex / Herts 200 if you get up early enough...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: jsabine on 02 February, 2017, 02:05:56 am
ECE it to a long enough distance to bring the speed right down - 10km/h overall if you go for 1900+km, 200km/day if you go for 2500+km IIRC.

The calendar ride still has to be completed within its own limit, of course.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 02 February, 2017, 09:15:43 am


Just ruling things out at the minute, I'm sure if I asked nicely they'd let me.

But .. you have a bag drop problem if you ECE .. vans leave overnight on SATURDAY taking bag drops to controls .. and you  need to be at registration on Saturday .. whether if you opted for no bag drops .. and turned up to register on Sunday .. 1 hour before your LEL start time .. would be OK with Danial and the start team I do not know. But just practically there can not be too many people with out of pattern needs , requests for special treatment etc. So think carefully before even asking .. and then do not be surprised if the answer is .. sorry No.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 02 February, 2017, 12:13:00 pm
Am I right in thinking you can't ECE it?
Why not?

[ I dont believe the calendar organiser even needs to know about an ECE. ]
Registration the day before, innit.  Would save me ££££ that's all.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Greenbank on 02 February, 2017, 01:20:15 pm
Registration the day before, innit.  Would save me ££££ that's all.

ECE it to a long enough distance to bring the speed right down - 10km/h overall if you go for 1900+km, 200km/day if you go for 2500+km IIRC.

Indeed, this can work out really well if you front loaded LEL:-

Ride 500km to the start giving a ride length of 1900km (we'll ignore the overdistance bit of LEL...). As John says, this drops the average speed requirement down to 10kph overall (for rides of 1900 to 2499 km).

Overall time limit = 1900km / 10kph = 190h.

Take off the 116h40m for LEL and that leaves you 73h20m (3d 1h 20m) to do that 500km to the start.

If you got a morning LEL start (say 10.30am) that would mean you could start your 500km ride on the Thursday at 9.10am.

You should be able to knock out two 250km days with plenty of sleep meaning you'd arrive at the start on Friday evening (or Saturday morning if you took it a bit easier) in plenty of time to register, drop off drop-bags, etc. You could then have this rest day before starting LEL on the Sunday in your allotted start group.

That solves both registration and drop-bags problems. If you didn't want to carry your drop bags on the 500km section of the ride you could just arrange for someone else to take them to the start for you, and you'd be there on the Saturday to hand them over.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 02 February, 2017, 03:10:33 pm
Oh I see, more difficult because of registration on Saturday. IIRC Teethgrinder may have had an exemption on PBP,

I had to register for him .. carrying authority for that and with his PBP bike for inspection .. while he rode over on a different  one. just can not see us doing odd things like that to suit someone's personal pref. My view is .. you gotta fit the system.. its hard enough for us without too many odd balls.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: jsabine on 02 February, 2017, 04:37:29 pm
Agreed, you can't be expected to jibble the setup for just one person, and thereby compromise how it works for the 1499 others.

But as I said, if you make the ECE long enough, you get enough extra time that it shouldn't impinge on the normal arrangements at all - and Greenbank's produced an illustration of how it might work.

Failing that, if the team was happy to accept a 3rd party doing the registration and bag drop stuff for another rider (pre-arranged, with letter of authority etc etc), given that I live in London I'd be happy enough to be the 3rd party for anyone who wants to ECE it. (Obviously, not if there's a hundred and three potential ECEs ...)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Salvatore on 16 May, 2017, 04:08:04 pm
Beware. Not all inhabitants of Eskdalemuir are peace-loving.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-39934489
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: psyclist on 28 June, 2017, 08:09:32 am
A question for the novices. How does the waking up at a control happen?

The only time I have slept on a 600km, I used my phone alarm, but I was awake before it went off. I can imagine it would be quite a nuisance if there were a lot of alarms going off all over the place, especially where riders have earplugs in and don't respond quickly to the alarm.

I know on some rides the riders are woken by the volunteers at their requested time. Is that a feature on LEL, or will it depend upon the control in question?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: jsabine on 28 June, 2017, 09:23:47 am
I know on some rides the riders are woken by the volunteers at their requested time. Is that a feature on LEL,

That's what happened last time, so I assume it'll happen this year. Really, it's the only sensible way to manage it - alarms are very much deprecated.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: jiberjaber on 28 June, 2017, 11:05:08 am
Just be careful not to hit the person waking you up... I managed to mentally stop myself when I was woken up after an hours kip at my requested time.... the brain works in funny ways sometimes :D
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 28 June, 2017, 12:17:16 pm
All controls with beds will have a bed allocating system , with wake up requested  times recorded. 

 Individual alarms would be VERY unsociable.. and if you were unlucky you could get lynched
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: psyclist on 28 June, 2017, 01:33:34 pm
All controls with beds will have a bed allocating system , with wake up requested  times recorded. 

Thank you for confirming the arrangements. That puts my mind at rest.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: grams on 29 June, 2017, 12:25:57 pm
The PBP movie Brevet has some good footage of the waking up system in practice. I presume LEL is much the same.

Another question: Is there food provided at the start and/or finish?

(I'm fairly sure the answer is either "yes, of course there is!", or "no, of course there isn't!", but can't figure out which)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 29 June, 2017, 01:55:49 pm
when you register on Saturday .. you will get a ticket for a modest eat pre your start time on Sunday . When you finish you will get a voucher for a once only visit to the grub available for finishers.. not a 3 course meal .. but a little something. We have learnt from 2013 .. that finishers eating needs to be controlled so that there is a little something for all finishers.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: αdαmsκι on 30 June, 2017, 11:40:43 am
When you finish you will get a voucher for a once only visit to the grub available for finishers
:thumbsup:. Excellent news.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cgg on 10 July, 2017, 03:29:05 pm
Looking at the control list (https://londonedinburghlondon.com/the-controls) I can see that Edinburgh is listed at the 705 km mark for Northbound and 710 km for Southbound. Does this account for a quick tour of central Edinburgh or am I missing something?

(I'm making grand plans of going to see the castle and the sea, all too easy from the comfort of a desk chair...)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 10 July, 2017, 04:34:33 pm
shows as 710 of 1436 total .. any chance you have an early draft , rather than where we are now
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cgg on 10 July, 2017, 05:57:12 pm
I'm seeing 710 in both columns now. Thanks!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cgg on 12 July, 2017, 12:01:12 pm
Another question. I suppose there's no way of swapping your start time for an earlier one? Asking for a friend...  ::-)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: alwyn on 12 July, 2017, 12:08:24 pm
no
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cgg on 24 July, 2017, 07:59:00 am
Yeah just as he thought...

Will there be "brevet bags" (small brevet card sized ziplock bags) available at the start?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Somnolent on 24 July, 2017, 09:00:36 am
Will there be "brevet bags" (small brevet card sized ziplock bags) available at the start?

Last time there were really posh ones on a lanyard.   I'm expecting, but not counting on, something similar this time, but I'd be surprised if there was no protection offered for the cards.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 24 July, 2017, 09:20:24 am
Lanyards and a brevet card plastic wallet provided .. very similar to last LEL or last PBP
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: cgg on 24 July, 2017, 11:05:59 am
 :thumbsup: thanks for the info!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mr ben on 25 July, 2017, 06:42:23 pm
Non-compulsory controls: I can see Alston referred to on the route sheet northbound but not south, so is it only open for a limited time? And is Coxwold still happening, I see the town mentioned but no control info?

Trying to check the website but the controls page is crashing my phone (fault entirely with ancient phone...).
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: rachel t on 25 July, 2017, 07:18:41 pm
Non-compulsory controls: I can see Alston referred to on the route sheet northbound but not south, so is it only open for a limited time? And is Coxwold still happening, I see the town mentioned but no control info?

Trying to check the website but the controls page is crashing my phone (fault entirely with ancient phone...).

Yes Coxwold is happening
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mr ben on 25 July, 2017, 07:26:10 pm
Thank you Rachel t.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: sizbut on 25 July, 2017, 07:32:20 pm
All controls with beds will have a bed allocating system , with wake up requested  times recorded. 

... and sticks. Very long "wake the bear" sticks ... :)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Somnolent on 25 July, 2017, 07:51:33 pm
Non-compulsory controls: I can see Alston referred to on the route sheet northbound but not south, so is it only open for a limited time? And is Coxwold still happening, I see the town mentioned but no control info?

Trying to check the website but the controls page is crashing my phone (fault entirely with ancient phone...).

Alston
Quote
* This is a dormitory stop only. It is not a mandatory control.
Samuel King School will be open from Monday 31 July at 21:00 until Wednesday 2 August at 12:00
Refreshments available between 22:00 and 06:00 Monday 31 July and Tuesday 1 August
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mr ben on 25 July, 2017, 08:23:31 pm
Thanks Somnolent.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Mr Larrington on 28 July, 2017, 05:20:04 pm
Anyone approaching Loughton by motor-car should be aware that They are digging up the A1168 outside Debden station.  Temporary lights.  Long queues.  Best avoided.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: SoreTween on 28 July, 2017, 06:08:34 pm
Can anyone tell me the time range for Alston  to Lambley?  I should be up that way on Monday afternoon.

Cheers.

ETA
The route sheet has Alston at 489.4 & 888.1 and the controls page has it at 526 & 893.  Also found the start is from 06:00 to 16:00 so I just need the speeds please?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Chris N on 28 July, 2017, 06:59:05 pm
12-30 km/h
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 28 July, 2017, 07:17:40 pm
12-30 km/h

= 2-5 minutes per kilometre.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: SoreTween on 28 July, 2017, 10:02:31 pm
Cheers.  Seems pretty likely we'll see someone on that stretch then.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Salvatore on 29 July, 2017, 12:31:59 pm
I may be wrong, but I think SR Steve will be putting in an appearance

I rode the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th editions. Might ride the 8th to break the pattern.

Also Keith Benton, so 4 of us who rode in 1989 will be starting tomorrow.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Mr Larrington on 30 July, 2017, 08:36:54 am
Marshalling the entrance to the start yesterday:

ML Maire:Morning Hummers, you horrible specimen!
Johnny(Awestruck...) My God, that was the legendary Hummers? (Mutters something about "alcohol"...)

Hummers, BRITAIN salutes you!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 01 August, 2017, 05:17:17 am
Just clocked off after a long shift, about to attempt sleep which if successful will be the  first since Saturday night....

Quite smug to have stamped J Spooner's card northwards and A10's southward :)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Salvatore on 01 August, 2017, 07:04:16 am
Just clocked off after a long shift, about to attempt sleep which if successful will be the  first since Saturday night....

Quite smug to have stamped J Spooner's card northwards and A10's southward :)

Just make sure you're ready for IF duties on Thursday night.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 01 August, 2017, 08:52:32 pm
Anco de Jong A10 arrived at Loughton at 20.43
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 01 August, 2017, 08:57:29 pm
At least two LEL riders are in hospital. One has a fractured femur after a ford-related off, following abandonment yesterday.
chrisbainbridge is having slow heart rate issues.
Information from Facebook and so hopefully not confidential.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Wowbagger on 01 August, 2017, 09:04:18 pm
That's a lower-case ford?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Ashaman42 on 01 August, 2017, 09:09:12 pm
I believe so yes.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: yorkie on 01 August, 2017, 09:12:57 pm
Yes, a bit of sogginess between two dry bits. ;-)

Sent from my Mobile Phone using Tapatalk

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: ElyDave on 01 August, 2017, 09:16:13 pm
there was one guy from SE Asia, I didn't see which country, who had had an off prior to St Ives on Sunday, looked quite painful, ripped jersey etc.

As another random Q, does anyone  know how many non-standard bikes set off, i.e. recumbents, trikes, velomobiles, stridas etc
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: The French Tandem on 01 August, 2017, 10:05:06 pm
I spotted 4 tandems, including a tandem trike, and 3 velomobiles. There might have been more, I was outdoor only part time.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: ElyDave on 01 August, 2017, 10:27:59 pm
I saw at least three recumbents, one velomobile and an upright trike at st Ives, but I was in the kitchen most of the time
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 01 August, 2017, 10:51:27 pm
This has just been posted on Facebook.
Whilst I understand the rider's unhappiness, I don't think AUK can be held responsible.
Oh dear!

Quote
Volevo ringraziare in modo particolare l'organizzazione, per aver lasciato me è Giorgio Marchesan in mezzo alla strada per tre ore prima che arrivasse un'ambulanza .
Meno male Giorgio si è rotto solo due vertebre e la sua bici è da buttare.
Meno male eravamo in macchina e sono potuto andare a recuperare le bici lasciate in una casa lì vicino.
Meno male domattina riesco ad andare via da questo posto.
Meno male un signore inglese sul posto dell'incidente ha anche insistito sul fatto che eravamo in difficoltà .
Meno male che la LEL LA FANNO OGNI 4 anni, così magari la gente si scorda di queste cose .....
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Mr Larrington on 01 August, 2017, 11:07:34 pm
I reckon I've seen 4 velomobiles (QV, Milan, 2x Quest) and a least a dozen recumbents. 2 Elliptigos started but at least one has packed coz it's parked up here for ages.  Rufus the tandem trike arrived here at Barney northbound around 7pm yesterday when I'd been sent to the shops, with Aidan and HK on board.  Seen quite a lot of Moultons but not spotted any other small-wheeled bikes.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Mr Larrington on 02 August, 2017, 12:24:52 am
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35485677474_fcb5c33fe3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/W4KnBq)
20170801 LEL Rush (https://flic.kr/p/W4KnBq) by Mr Larrington (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_larrington/), on Flickr

Tuesday afternoon was very busy...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: yorkie on 02 August, 2017, 12:55:12 am
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35485677474_fcb5c33fe3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/W4KnBq)
20170801 LEL Rush (https://flic.kr/p/W4KnBq) by Mr Larrington (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_larrington/), on Flickr

Tuesday afternoon was very busy...
Blimey, surprised you can get through that crush! ;-) :-D :-D


(To be honest, Pocklington isn't much better at the moment!)

Sent from my Mobile Phone using Tapatalk

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: iddu on 02 August, 2017, 10:17:29 am
Great Easton - I spent a week there one afternoon...

(http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r200/iddu/20170802%20-%20Great%20Easton/IMG_20170802_083435_zps1d6w5hdl.jpg)

Working the vollies to the bone  ;D

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: iddu on 02 August, 2017, 02:39:18 pm
We haz the bestest Audax hotel...which, weather watching, they may need; not sure how we'll fit 1200 riders in, but at least they'll keep each other warm.

(http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r200/iddu/20170802%20-%20Great%20Easton/IMG_20170802_111023_zpseysi6fad.jpg)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Dave_C on 02 August, 2017, 02:50:21 pm
I volunteered to help late notice on Tuesday in Edinburgh. It was a rewarding experience.

Then I bumped into 4 LEL DNFs in Edinburgh Waverley this morning as I headed for work. I assisted the first who was a little tired and agitated after his ride back up from Eskdalemuir. He had ridden late into Edinburgh yesterday before starting back down to Eskdalemuir. He was worried about getting back for his ferry in time. I gave him a little advise on ticketing and watched his bike as he bought an expensive ticket. I then sat with him while the platform number eventually came up. I bought him a coke and sourced a 'Euro to UK' travel adaptor so he could charge his phone on the journey south. I then saw his bike onto the train and him and another, who was getting the same train back, on and away. I don't think he had slept lastnight. His GPS had died and he had been given a route sheet but was having problems using it. He had followed a few riders but felt they were not fast enough for him to complete in time so abandoned on the ride south in the borders. I guess he thought he knew the ride north to Edinburgh, rather than try to navigate south to Lockerbie or Carlisle.

Dave C
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: pcolbeck on 02 August, 2017, 07:57:30 pm
On my way home last night I saw a couple of  southbound riders climbing up from Buttercrambe to the A166 at about 10:00pm. Not a very steep hill but I bet it felt steep that far in.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: ElyDave on 02 August, 2017, 09:25:19 pm
Some of the riders coming through at Ives today we're very wobbly, probably something like 120 all told when I left at 7:30 this evening, so most still to come. Tomorrow looks very busy, and they will have suffered an additional day of headwinds across the fens.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: simonp on 02 August, 2017, 10:18:22 pm
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35485677474_fcb5c33fe3_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/W4KnBq)
20170801 LEL Rush (https://flic.kr/p/W4KnBq) by Mr Larrington (https://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_larrington/), on Flickr

Tuesday afternoon was very busy...

I have to apologise for not recognising you - though I'm pretty sure you didn't used to have a beard. You were doing sterling work.

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 02 August, 2017, 11:14:36 pm
I have to apologise for not recognising you - though I'm pretty sure you didn't used to have a beard. You were doing sterling work.

I think recent beard acquisition applies to several LEL stalwarts... ;) ;D
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 August, 2017, 12:05:49 am
My feet hurt.

I have to say I'd think twice about doing that again if they expand the field again. 1500 starters is very very different to a thousand.

Time to Zzzzz.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Gattopardo on 03 August, 2017, 12:23:38 am
Loughton is getting busy, currently been home for a few hours trying to get a laptop set up with win10 so we can accept credit cards. 

It is taking soooooooo long.  Finding  a laptop, the one that I thought I had is in Nice...which is nice ;) So found a second one, then find a wifi card that worked, then install windows 10........then find a wifi card that win10 sees and then bluetooth dongles
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Salvatore on 03 August, 2017, 04:27:14 am
The mechanic at Thirsk told me my rear wheel was only good for one thing, riding to the bike shop to buy a new one. He even said 'It's only a bike ride' and suggested the wheel was likely to collapse underneath me at any  time, and I would be mad to continue.

Well it's got me as far as Pocklington without mishap.

Fingers (and spokes) crossed.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 August, 2017, 05:51:35 am
Imaginary friend, reporting for duty, with fingers crossed...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: T42 on 03 August, 2017, 09:24:01 am
Anyone have an idea of lag time between checking into a control and the tracking page being updated?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 03 August, 2017, 01:15:50 pm
It depends on how well the system is behaving.  When all is peachy perfect, it's basically straight away.  If the person checking people in is having to work offline and cache information for any reason then it will be when they next reconnect to the network.  If there's been something gone wrong and the check is having to be manually entered then it may show up and have a time late.

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: DrMekon on 03 August, 2017, 01:22:03 pm
My feet hurt.

I have to say I'd think twice about doing that again if they expand the field again. 1500 starters is very very different to a thousand.

Time to Zzzzz.

You were kind - thank you.

Still eating falling asleep eating falling asleep

Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: whosatthewheel on 03 August, 2017, 01:31:11 pm
The mechanic at Thirsk told me my rear wheel was only good for one thing, riding to the bike shop to buy a new one. He even said 'It's only a bike ride' and suggested the wheel was likely to collapse underneath me at any  time, and I would be mad to continue.

Well it's got me as far as Pocklington without mishap.

Fingers (and spokes) crossed.

I've seen people doing Paris-Roubaix with missing spokes, so all is possible.. good luck!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: T42 on 03 August, 2017, 01:43:10 pm
It depends on how well the system is behaving.  When all is peachy perfect, it's basically straight away.  If the person checking people in is having to work offline and cache information for any reason then it will be when they next reconnect to the network.  If there's been something gone wrong and the check is having to be manually entered then it may show up and have a time late.

Yeah, more or less what I thought.  The vagaries of the PBP system had folks back home wondering where the hell I was, too.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: αdαmsκι on 03 August, 2017, 02:50:44 pm
I found Hummer's in a field south of Spalding. He was looking, and failing, to find his brevet card that the wind stole  :o

(https://pbs-0.twimg.com/media/DGTzLIlU0AAmOoV?format=jpg)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Pingu on 03 August, 2017, 02:59:54 pm
It's behind you!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 03 August, 2017, 09:14:16 pm
I spotted 4 tandems, including a tandem trike, and 3 velomobiles. There might have been more, I was outdoor only part time.
Certainly 3 velomobiles. One was Irish, not sure of the other two.


Tapatalk puts this signature here, not me!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: ElyDave on 03 August, 2017, 10:30:53 pm
Velomobile, quattrovelo and recumbent in St Ives today, a Moulton in yesterday
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Neil C on 03 August, 2017, 11:36:09 pm
there was one guy from SE Asia, I didn't see which country, who had had an off prior to St Ives on Sunday, looked quite painful, ripped jersey etc.

That was Chen, FF14 from Taiwan. Happened at about 12km. I saw him go down about 5-10 metres in front of me on a descent and I only just managed to miss him. We managed to sort him out and get him going again. At St Ives the mechanics checked his bike out and he continued. Presently showing 5hrs out of time at Louth.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: iddu on 04 August, 2017, 09:19:25 am
Yay...Great Easton closed.

Herding cats is easier - Never again  ;D

We're here as long as we're here.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: lastant on 04 August, 2017, 09:35:47 am
there was one guy from SE Asia, I didn't see which country, who had had an off prior to St Ives on Sunday, looked quite painful, ripped jersey etc.

That was Chen, FF14 from Taiwan...Presently showing 5hrs out of time at Louth.

Had another off at Spalding this morning looking at the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/groups/392520757598601/permalink/750744205109586/) - safely returned to control though.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: citoyen on 04 August, 2017, 03:34:13 pm
Does anyone know if Elliptigo rider William Grace finished?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Mr Larrington on 04 August, 2017, 03:37:10 pm
Does anyone know if Elliptigo rider William Grace finished?

Packed at Barnard Castle on the way south, alas.  Sounded pretty cheerful but said the increase in frontal area he has over a standard bike, never mind a recumbent, just mad for too much effort.  I imagine someone had told him about the expected weather further south.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: citoyen on 04 August, 2017, 05:19:08 pm
Ah, that's a shame.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: T42 on 05 August, 2017, 09:18:57 am
When I first saw the list of controls I thought "Cornwall? Eire? WTF?"
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 August, 2017, 10:28:03 am
Somebody has decided that they preferred my shoes to theirs after the finish of the last two LELs. I've come to think of it as something like one of those additional charges for cheap airline tickets.

A pair of give-away hotel slippers meant I could gently pedal to the station without punching holes in my feet. I managed to only sleep past a couple of changes during my train journey home. All good fun.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 05 August, 2017, 02:33:07 pm
You need redfalo's shoe labels!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Peter on 05 August, 2017, 02:43:01 pm
At least glad you finished, D.  you don't show up on the list, yet.  'Twas I who shouted to you from the roadside just befoe the Eskdalemuir control.  I was looking after the overspill shivering stop.

Peter
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 August, 2017, 03:00:27 pm
I don't need shoe labels. I need other people to look for their own shoes and to ignore anybody else's.

Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: madcow on 05 August, 2017, 03:17:48 pm
When the North Riding of Yorkshire Education Committee ended the 11Plus exam system ,my parents wanted me to go to Barnard Castle School but it never happened (due,I guess to a shortage of funds ).
I am so pleased to have achieved,albeit fleetingly, their wish.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 05 August, 2017, 03:23:56 pm
I don't need shoe labels. I need other people to look for their own shoes and to ignore anybody else's.

Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!

True but being seen wearing shoe labels with the wrong name might act as a deterrent.
One can hope!

I can't see the attraction of nicking AN Other's shoes myself...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 August, 2017, 03:25:58 pm
If I see my shoes again, the person wearing them will be de-shoed within 10 seconds.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 05 August, 2017, 03:40:57 pm
De-shoeing's too good for him.
Would you like surgical assistance?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 05 August, 2017, 03:53:03 pm
Limbs come with handy separable joints; no anaesthetic required.

Yes, I know it will have been a case of confusing my shoes for their own but even so...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: hellymedic on 05 August, 2017, 03:57:35 pm
I think you will find joints are held together with VERY tough ligaments, for which sharp tools are needed...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: triker131 on 05 August, 2017, 05:09:23 pm
I find the idea of someone targeting and stalking you for 4 years and then riding another 1400+ km just to steal a second pair of your shoes fascinating - especially if they've flown half way around the world on two occasions to accomplish this criminality. Sounds like a plot for a mission impossible movie.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: jiberjaber on 05 August, 2017, 09:23:05 pm
I find the idea of someone targeting and stalking you for 4 years and then riding another 1400+ km just to steal a second pair of your shoes fascinating - especially if they've flown half way around the world on two occasions to accomplish this criminality. Sounds like a plot for a mission impossible movie.

Yeah but... every ride needs a theme usually doesn't it?  ;D
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: grams on 06 August, 2017, 10:27:09 am
On the descent to Brampton from Alston there's a level crossing on a sharp bend that the road crosses diagonally. Knowing how stupidly dangerous these are when wet (and it was soaking), I slowed right down and crossed the rails at right-angles, which required starting on the left of the lane and moving outwards. Some utter tosspot decided this was a great place to overtake, buzzing half an inch past my elbow on the wet rails and blind bend.

And yet I didn't kick his derailleur off at the Brampton bike park.

Is there some sort of sportsmanship badge I can apply for?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: αdαmsκι on 06 August, 2017, 10:30:56 am


Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!

Note to self: Steal LWaB's shoes at the end of LEL 2021.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: madcow on 06 August, 2017, 10:57:08 am
My sincere apologies to all forumites who were manning controls but who I never saw or even recognised. Sometimes one is in a self imposed bubble, in fact, for me that is part of the key to finishing in time. I am particularly miffed that I did not meet Mr. L at Barney as I think we have a lot in common. U
The name badges didn't seem to do the job that they were intended to IMHO. I got more comments about the sprig of heather on my saddlebag than my forum name.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Whitedown Man on 06 August, 2017, 11:11:51 am


Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!

Note to self: Steal LWaB's shoes at the end of LEL 2021.

Perhaps AUK could fashion a one-off badge for the first person to cross the finish line with LWaB's shoes in hand?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Mr Larrington on 06 August, 2017, 01:23:09 pm
If I see my shoes again, the person wearing them will be de-shoed within 10 seconds.

Quote from: Del Preston
I had to beat them to death with their own shoes. Nasty business, really. But, sure enough, I got the M&Ms, and Ozzy went on stage and did a great show.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: yorkie on 06 August, 2017, 01:41:31 pm
My sincere apologies to all forumites who were manning controls but who I never saw or even recognised.

I saw you going both ways, although I do know you IRL! ;-)
Other YACF members I definitely met include hulver (who was also volunteering as a mechanic at Pocklington), Deano, Wilkyboy, DCLane and Redlight. I saw adamski and his dad in passing on the Monday morning.
I *may* have worked on tippers_kiwi's bike sorting out the indexing as well (nice shiny Genesis with *big* tyres?)
Apologies to anyone else who talked to me, some parts of the week are a bit of a blur! :-D

Sent from my Mobile Phone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Gattopardo on 06 August, 2017, 01:43:21 pm


Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!

Note to self: Steal LWaB's shoes at the end of LEL 2021.

Shhhh didn't you get the PM?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 06 August, 2017, 02:52:16 pm
My sincere apologies to all forumites who were manning controls but who I never saw or even recognised. Sometimes one is in a self imposed bubble, in fact, for me that is part of the key to finishing in time. I am particularly miffed that I did not meet Mr. L at Barney as I think we have a lot in common. U
The name badges didn't seem to do the job that they were intended to IMHO. I got more comments about the sprig of heather on my saddlebag than my forum name.

I definitely spotted you in one direction and I reckon you looked less knackered that in the kitchen last time around :)  The name badges being on the bikes and me being mostly indoors meant that they didn't help me at all so apologies to anyone I failed to recognise.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Gattopardo on 06 August, 2017, 02:53:30 pm
Too the person that used the Raleigh Record ace - You have a very nice bike.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mattc on 06 August, 2017, 03:46:54 pm


Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!

Note to self: Steal LWaB's shoes at the end of LEL 2021.

Shhhh didn't you get the PM?
I think the joke has worn a bit thin guys. Give him a break - steal them at the start next time.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: madcow on 06 August, 2017, 11:24:31 pm
Imagine the scene. I am in what seems like the middle of nowhere, but in fact it was not far from Humberside airport. As our band of intrepid explorers stop to check the route,I make an excuse to hang back from the group as I need to apply a little bit of lubrication to the moving parts.
I empty a dollop of sooothing white cream onto my fingertips and at that exact moment a white Vauxhall Astra pulls up alongside me. I was expecting it to be the local nutters out for a laugh,but when the window went down ,I spied three policemen out on patrol.
"Are the cyclists on their way back to London?"
"Yes, officer .How kind of you to look out for us"
" No problems? Have a safe ride." Off they went.
At last ,I apply the ointment that will make the next few miles less painful.
Had they arrived a minute later,I could have been arrested for flashing or an act of indecency.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 07 August, 2017, 06:59:40 am


Once is forgiveable. The second time makes it personal!

Note to self: Steal LWaB's shoes at the end of LEL 2021.

Shhhh didn't you get the PM?
I think the joke has worn a bit thin guys. Give him a break - steal them at the start next time.

I hate you all and hope Santa has got you all on the correct part of his list.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: JonBuoy on 07 August, 2017, 07:07:22 am
I was a little behind a group of four Thai riders into Market Weighton going south.  Two stopped at a shop and the other two stopped on the pavement right in the centre of town.  One of them had his back to me and was hunched over.  I wondered if he was about to throw up then I spotted the shape of a hand under his lycra shorts creeping up his bum crack  :o

Not sure why he couldn't find anywhere slightly more discrete to 're-apply' or what the good folks of Market Weighton thought...
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Alexander Turner on 07 August, 2017, 10:45:41 am
A short write up and a few pics here  - http://www.monaxle.com/2017/08/07/audax-lel-2017/
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Peter on 07 August, 2017, 11:37:51 am
That was nice.  Richard looks like it might have been Rich from Dulwich Paragon - is that right?  Sorry he didn't make it.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 August, 2017, 11:50:45 am
If it's who I think it was, knee stopped play at BC southbound.  Nice bloke - I bumped into him again at Darlo station where he had an hour or so to wait for a southbound train and was still cheerful and smiley.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Alexander Turner on 07 August, 2017, 12:28:48 pm
It was Richard from Dulwich. Lovely fella. Very good company. Hope the knee mends quickly. I never knew. Last we saw of each other was in Brampton. I was just leaving as he rolled in. Looked pretty good then considering that tedious drag from Longtown.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: madcow on 07 August, 2017, 02:35:03 pm
Monaxle-your stomach problems may have been the result of bumpy roads. It can shake you about more than you think, especially if you are on narrow (25 mm?) tyres and a carbon frame.I found that this ride was more calorie demanding than any other as well, making my guts work overtime just to keep up with my legs.
Nice report ,thank you. Everything you say about gaining experience by riding an SR series is spot on. I think it helps a lot , but there are exceptions.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: otherdave on 07 August, 2017, 04:15:08 pm
Did I just dream it, or did I cycle down a "Cowshit Lane" ?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Rich XAB on 07 August, 2017, 05:36:03 pm
Nice write-up monaxle and great riding with you. Well done on completing the ride  :thumbs: The photo made me laugh; the next time I see a space blanket...

As mentioned, I did pack at Barney (heading south). Unable to walk or ride without feeling a lot of pain in my feet (not the knees although they weren't great either :-\). I should have packed at Brampton but thought the trek to BC would help me decide if it was a physical or mental thing - definitely the former, as it turned out. It wasn't until after a good bath at home that I noticed that my feet were like those of a hobbit [walk,walk,walk. Battle  ;D].

A big thanks to Alpha Pete, CrinklyLion, Dave R for your wonderful support at BC. A big thanks too, to all the volunteers for a great event. It was a pleasure to see so many smiling faces. Enjoyed the company on the road of faces, old and new. Now I have the feet I'm off to do the Mordor 1200  ;)

Rich

Al, you have PM
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 07 August, 2017, 05:53:23 pm
Feet - not knees.  Sorry, I should have remembered that!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: madcow on 08 August, 2017, 10:27:15 am
I have just been speaking to a customer whose offices and plant are on the route at Spalding. He was well aware of the cyclists passing through Spalding and the control at the school.
 He also commented that one of his production team was less than amused that a tired rider had run into the back of his car which was parked on the roadside.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Jacques on 08 August, 2017, 02:17:17 pm
Did anyone else's GPS throw a wobbler going over the top of Yad Moss? Mine started beeping at me then got stuck and eventually I had to reset it, at almost the exact same place in both directions.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Peter on 08 August, 2017, 02:53:34 pm
Durham gods are jealous gods.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: MikeFromLFE on 08 August, 2017, 04:36:16 pm
I have just been speaking to a customer whose offices and plant are on the route at Spalding. He was well aware of the cyclists passing through Spalding and the control at the school.
 He also commented that one of his production team was less than amused that a tired rider had run into the back of his car which was parked on the roadside.
I don't think that the volunteers at Spalding were aware of that (Jim, the controller may have been made aware though).


Tapatalk puts this signature here, not me!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: madcow on 08 August, 2017, 05:12:23 pm
I will find out a bit more when I am down there in a few weeks time, but I don't think it was serious.
It has happened to me before .
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 August, 2017, 12:01:39 am
There was a chap wandering, zombie-like but smiley, at BC as we were closing up.  Looking for a mate, and said that he didn't really know what his plan was.

Yesterday he posted a pic on the LEL fb page of himself at Thirsk, announcing that he had  -108 hours 30 minutes in hand.  I did offer lunch in York if he fancied the Easingwold Alternative, but he was sticking to the route so I sent him to Granny Annie's for a cuppa instead so that the hounds there could become official #dogsoflel too.  Plus also Granny Annie has made it onto the LEL fb page now.  It turns out that he'd packed at Thirsk and gone home (to London I think) but regretted that so decided to get himself back up to Thirsk and finish the damn ride.  10 minutes ago he just posted a pic of himself by the school gates in Loughton :D
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Deano on 09 August, 2017, 12:10:18 am
He's on here :)

https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=9783
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: CrinklyLion on 09 August, 2017, 12:39:39 am
D'oh!  Unobservant, I am.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: grams on 10 August, 2017, 08:54:17 am
10 minutes ago he just posted a pic of himself by the school gates in Loughton :D

Thanks again for arranging a cuppa, and your support online!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Somnolent on 10 August, 2017, 10:07:20 pm
I am beginning to think I was VERY VERY lucky to finish.

Coming out of Thirsk (s'bound) I was getting a lot of strange noises from the drivetrain.
Oil on chain seemed to (mostly) cure it, but it gradually got worse again after Pock .
Put more oil on just after the bridge but little effect.
Asked Louth mechanic to put more on but he thought not needed and it was creaking from slightly loose (HT2 style) BB.
I slacked off LH crank and tightened the preload cap a nudge before refitting crank, but I was still getting occasional noises all the way to the finish (and all the way into central London for my train home)

I only looked at bike for the first time today, after various other bits of cleaning & fettling I refitted rear wheel and it was pretty well locked, the cassette lockring fouling the frame.
Wheel off again and investigate - nothing wrong with cassette or lockring, but the spacer on the drive side of the hub seemed to have retreated behind the level of the lockring.  A bit of to & fro on phone with Hope, and find that not only is the spacer fubar but the outboard freehub bearing has completely disintegrated.
Seems I rode 400km on a hub lubricated by swarf !  :facepalm:   and with the (alloy) cassette lockring grinding itself away on the (Ti) dropout.   :o

I thought it was harder work than it should have been!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 10 August, 2017, 10:25:31 pm
I bet you are glad that LEL wasn't 1500 or 1600km long.
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Somnolent on 10 August, 2017, 10:45:33 pm
Not half as glad as I am that I didn't refit the steel lockring.  The alloy one was nicely sacrificial.  The steel one could have fubar'd the frame!   
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 10 August, 2017, 10:59:10 pm
That'll teach you about choosing a cheap and nasty hub. ;)
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: mr ben on 28 August, 2017, 08:57:21 pm
I got (me and LEL) a little tiny mention on Cerys Matthews' radio 6 show this morning, while doing my post-LEL bike clean (well, rehab).
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: JonBuoy on 03 September, 2017, 10:44:21 pm
I put the ride up on Strava and noticed that the thumbnail on my list of rides was blank.  I sent a message to the Strava Support Team and after a long wait I have received the following reply:

Quote
Thanks for writing in. What an impressive ride! It appears that since the ride was so large it is taking a long time for the image to appear, unfortunately, the servers time out before the image is available. Sorry about that!
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 17 September, 2017, 11:43:49 am
Who won?
Title: Re: LEL 2017 thread for random things which don't require etc etc ...
Post by: Peter on 17 September, 2017, 12:44:29 pm
Well it wasn't Sunderland.