Building on the imminent one organised by Mark and Paul, planning a Retro Road Riding Weekend (AKA The Welsh Borders Grimpeur) on 24th/25th July.
What does it involve, I hear you cry?
It's a two day event for lovers of old road bikes, featuring a stunning, scenic and undulating Sportive style ride plus a chance for a few beers and a bit of a banter in the evening. Oh, and a timed hill climb for those of stout constitution.
Sounds good but give me specifics....
Saturday 24th will be the Sportive ride with a choice of 90 km or 135 km routes 9the first part of the ride is shared with a split after 30 km or so). Both routes will be on very quiet country roads bar about 6 km with the longer ride covering the legendary Gospel Pass.
Both have plenty of climbing but nothing is super steep so with a compact and a bit of fitness all should be fine. The shorter route in particular has numerous bail out options in case mechanicals/fitness/age is a barrier.
Both rides will be followed by a small garden party and then a trip to the metropolis to sample the delights of the award winning Wye Valley Brewery.
Sunday 25th is the recovery ride to lunch at a neraby country pub (roses round the door, beer garden etc.) with the option of a timed ride up the fearsome 1 in 4 Capler for those with a bit of juice left in the tank.
Where is it happening?
The ride will start and finish in Hampton Bishop, just outside of the cathedral city of Hereford.
Accommodation?
There’s a very good campsite about a mile and a half from the ride start/finish, plus good B&B option 3 miles away in the next village.
Anything for partners and/or nippers?
Herefordshire is a very pretty county and there's plenty of opportunity for strolls with an ice cream along the river bank, great open parks and pretty, sleepy black and white villages with quaint antique shops.
Do I have to ride an old road bike?
Riding retro is certainly encouraged if at all possible but if you haven't got anything ready then modern is acceptable (although expect some good natured ribbing). There will be a ‘best in show’ rosette for the sweetest old school ride.
Anyone fancy it?
What does it involve, I hear you cry?
It's a two day event for lovers of old road bikes, featuring a stunning, scenic and undulating Sportive style ride plus a chance for a few beers and a bit of a banter in the evening. Oh, and a timed hill climb for those of stout constitution.
Sounds good but give me specifics....
Saturday 24th will be the Sportive ride with a choice of 90 km or 135 km routes 9the first part of the ride is shared with a split after 30 km or so). Both routes will be on very quiet country roads bar about 6 km with the longer ride covering the legendary Gospel Pass.
Both have plenty of climbing but nothing is super steep so with a compact and a bit of fitness all should be fine. The shorter route in particular has numerous bail out options in case mechanicals/fitness/age is a barrier.
Both rides will be followed by a small garden party and then a trip to the metropolis to sample the delights of the award winning Wye Valley Brewery.
Sunday 25th is the recovery ride to lunch at a neraby country pub (roses round the door, beer garden etc.) with the option of a timed ride up the fearsome 1 in 4 Capler for those with a bit of juice left in the tank.
Where is it happening?
The ride will start and finish in Hampton Bishop, just outside of the cathedral city of Hereford.
Accommodation?
There’s a very good campsite about a mile and a half from the ride start/finish, plus good B&B option 3 miles away in the next village.
Anything for partners and/or nippers?
Herefordshire is a very pretty county and there's plenty of opportunity for strolls with an ice cream along the river bank, great open parks and pretty, sleepy black and white villages with quaint antique shops.
Do I have to ride an old road bike?
Riding retro is certainly encouraged if at all possible but if you haven't got anything ready then modern is acceptable (although expect some good natured ribbing). There will be a ‘best in show’ rosette for the sweetest old school ride.
Anyone fancy it?
