Resisting the temptation to write a full ride report which I'll publish in 14 parts including full details of every climb over 5 metres...
But the 200 was a cracker. A tough outbound leg into the wind. It's normally quite gentle country up to Woodstock but the breeze made it challenging. At first I was in a strong group of about 10 which made very good time but it disintegrated around 35km. The next 65 KM or so were a slog although I found myself with a nice friendly group of Audax newcomers who were up for a natter and a nice cup of tea in Burford (Thanks Freddie, Meg and Steph).
The return leg was brilliant flying along as, miraculously, my fitness kicked in.
I think anyone who rode it will have been impressed by the route. The run up to Woodstock avoided almost entirely any major roads. The hills were quite civilised (or would have been without the breeze) and the climbs on the way to Burford were rewarded with some brilliant views. The return leg should have been a bit more challenging than it was (thanks to the wind) but the last 30 to 40 Km took in some of the best cycling country in South IMHO.
Chapeau on the organisiation and the route planning!
I agree, excellent route.
I think the second half is fine as it is... lots of newcomers from the Sportive sphere, who are more used to the imperial 100 distance, so I think it was ideal to have an extended but easy distance as an intro. Hopefully a few of them will realise the exceptionally good value of Audax over Sportives and won't go back!
There was enough fun for all. If it was at all possible to find a quieter way out of Bicester, that would be the icing on the cake. Looking at google maps, there appear to be better options