I didn't want to go out today, but inner chimp shouted "teethgrinder is planning double your ride man up"
Having ridden with Steve, dare I say I think we are of similar ability physically.
So I headed out Easterly, got bored on the fen roads after 2 hrs, checked the average at 15.7 mph and headed back West.
The meagre breeze was biting cold and the average dropped to below 15.
I then dropped onto the old A1 between Alconbury and Norman Cross (a TT course I believe) going North South out and back. I stuck to my usual little pressure on the pedals style and speed rose to 17.5 mph for 2 hours. It was bliss, safe road, totally dry and sheltered, OK the A1 noise is a pain, the gradients are steady, I didn't get bored.
Rode home Westerly afterwards at 15.2 mph for 2 hours, much harder effort.
Seeing Steve wander round the fens lately struggling to average 15mph dare I put forward this 18mile out and back as a viable "mile grabber" for inclement East/West wind days.
The Premier Inn café at Norman cross is a Teethgrinder haunt, he could get a room there (maybe even free after recent problems) for a couple of nights. Have spare bikes and clothing delivered there; local riders and supporters would find him easily, easy A1 access, and I'm sure some nice sheltered groups of riders would form.
Sorry for rambling, but If I was going for the record right now, rather than a long bike ride, that's what I'd be considering, dull as it sounds.