2020 is proving to be a difficult year. Just as I was starting to make some progress on my riding in March, the UK government, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, put the nation into a "stay-at-home" lockdown.
Time to Stay at Home...
Certainly not what I desire, but a completely understandable approach to addressing the pandemic. And most importantly, it seems to be working.
Last year I had the flu twice and both times it was surprisingly intense. I've never experienced flu symptoms so severly. Is is my age? Was it a particular strain of virus? (Probably, a bit of both.) I have no clear idea, but I was knocked out for a month each time. And to be perfectly honest, I don't want to catch anything like the Corona virus. I still have a lingering cough which I attribute to hayfever (another ailment I had not experienced until moving to the UK). So I feel a bit vulnerable and despite my wife's insistance that I'm not being safe - I am doing my best. I am keeping a safe distance from everyone and not really going out - except to ride very short distances!
Before the lockdown began, I was was starting to log some decent rides. The weather had suddenly turned for the better, I felt confident in my health, my physical strength, and my mileage was slowly picking up. Plus!, I had finally put new wheels on my Dawes. I've outlined a few of my longer rides from March below. I've remodeled my charts section and I've even got a new feature in my Gear section you might find of particular interest. I hope you enjoy this issue.
Stay Safe!... and as always, thanks for stopping by.
Seeya down the road! - cm
Features
March 30, 2020
MY RIDES - I'm very fortunate to have several hills nearby that provide wide open views into the surrounding valleys. The trick is that it's quite a climb to reach the top!
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March 26, 2020
MY RIDES - It's a modest ride, but one which showcases the heart of the Vale of Usk. As I've worked to increase my indurance over the year, I've been focusing on my favourite rides.
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March 13, 2020
MY RIDES - This is one of those rides I wish every cyclist in Wales could make. I've ridden the route at least 20 times and it never ceases to amaze me. I just love it and it's a Welsh classic.
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DEPARTMENTS
Charts - Yes, I'm crazy about crunching numbers and playing about in Google Sheets. Check out some of my snazzy graphics along with some modest figures in my Charts section.
Gear - I would have never thought 40 years ago that I would be writing about my Trek, but here I am and I cannot emphisize enough how excited I am to have her back on the road.
On the Web
YouTube: I've had Alee on here before. He's one of my favourites to follow. Now he's gone on an adventure with a friend and produced a charming little video.
YouTube: I ran across these fellas and dig their approach. They're a small start-up with some great connections. Also, if you read my blog, you'll recognise Path Less Pedaled.
Sexy Bike Alert!
Probably the bike I'd buy if I were in the market. Certainly a couple of questionable parts (hydraulic brakes!)... but otherwise, for an off-the-peg bike, this one is outstanding. Tell me what you think... Check it out!
