This year started out cold and wet and completely miserable, but now it's turned into one of the most spectacular summers I've witnessed in Wales. And YES! I'm having some fantastic rides.
 |
| Peeking across Pontsticill Reservoir on a late May afternoon |
Struggling with time...
It's Tuesday; I should be out cycling with the Kingfishers today, but it's raining and I'm a few days behind getting this post together. I'm feeling rather reflective as well, so it's a good time to write.
I'm starting off this issue with two big features. First, I have a report on a wonderful ride I made to Ogmore-by-the-Sea at the end of last month. Next I have my first instalment on the Taff Trail; Brecon to Pontsticill. And just to cap off my features this month, I've put together tow sets of images; one from Cardiff Bay and then the full set of images from Ogmore Castle.
I've got a couple of quick links to a pair of cyclists I think worthy of a read, followed by a review on the latest tech from Campagnola. Let the the opnions fly! Lastly, I've pulled one of my favourite routes out from the archive and yes, I found another sexy bike to check out.
I hope you enjoy this issue. Thanks as always for stopping by. Cheers! - cm
I'm starting off this issue with two big features. First, I have a report on a wonderful ride I made to Ogmore-by-the-Sea at the end of last month. Next I have my first instalment on the Taff Trail; Brecon to Pontsticill. And just to cap off my features this month, I've put together tow sets of images; one from Cardiff Bay and then the full set of images from Ogmore Castle.
I've got a couple of quick links to a pair of cyclists I think worthy of a read, followed by a review on the latest tech from Campagnola. Let the the opnions fly! Lastly, I've pulled one of my favourite routes out from the archive and yes, I found another sexy bike to check out.
I hope you enjoy this issue. Thanks as always for stopping by. Cheers! - cm
Features
 |
RIDE w/ GPS - I have been dreaming of this trip for several years. I took advantage of some spectacular weather on the late May Bank holiday to have a great cycling adventure along the Vale of Glamorgan. ► Read more... |
 |
MY RIDES - It's been a tough 'ole slog to get this thing put together... and this is just the first part! I've been working on this for nealy six months, but I feel that now I've got a sold working model. Take a look at my first version of this route descriptioon and tell me what you think. ► Read more... |
 |
GALLERY - Sometimes ya just run across something exceptional. So it was on this lovely June day as I was passing through Cardiff on a training ride. I found that I had to slow down to shoot a few snaps.
► Read more... |
 |
GALLERY - I put the full set of images I shot whilst wandering about the castle on my Ogmore-by-the-Sea Odyssey. Plus, I've added a new sub-section to my Gallery just for castles! ► Read more... |
In the News
New York City: Nigel Sylvester
I don't normally read about BMX bikes. However, I stumbled across this guy and I just dig him. I hadn't heard of a professional cyclist who is not competing? How does he do it? I dunno, but it is awesome!
Jonas Deichmann:
Living a meaningful life.
Living a meaningful life.
I just discovered this cat a few days ago and if you're interested in long distance cycling, you need to read this. His web site has great stories and excellent photograpy. Plus, I really dig his attitude on life.
Bikesoup: Road Disc Brakes
This site is now DEFUNCT
Debate is hot regarding disc brakes on road bikes. Personally, I think they are "over-tech" with the exception of use on mountain bikes. This detailed article by a wheel builder sums up the issue(s) better than any I've read.
Debate is hot regarding disc brakes on road bikes. Personally, I think they are "over-tech" with the exception of use on mountain bikes. This detailed article by a wheel builder sums up the issue(s) better than any I've read.
Out From the Archive
2013 - I was given the novel "Rape of the Fair Country" when I first moved to Wales and it had a profound affect on me. I created this circular route as part of my Wales Heritage Series back in 2013. Join me on a scenic and poignant ride through the South East Valleys.
Sexy Bike Alert!
Salsa offers a unique combination of gravel and touring componentry. I love the 9-speed Deore drive train, Cowchipper handlebars, and Brooks saddle. They also offer a version with straight handle bars... pretty interesting stuff. Take a look and tell me what you think.
Coming Next issue:
- Rides: Caldicot to Oakdale
- Rides: Llangorse Lake
- Rides: Twin Peaks - The Bwlch & Rhigos
- Charts: Goals; How am I doing?
- Gear: TRP Brake Levers Review
- Gallery: Man Engine
- Gallery: Shirenewton to Usk
