As we enter the fourth month of government mandated closures and social distancing, some areas of restriction are being slightly modified. However, cycling through the valleys feels quite different from several months ago.
Strange days indeed.
So far in 2020, we've had the wettest February ever recorded. We had the warmest and driest May ever recorded in the UK. And then in March we were introduced to a world-wide pandemic which has involved mandated lockdowns of most everything, social distancing rules, and limitations on travel to no more than 5 miles from your home. These precautions have suddenly brought an end to our so-called "normal life".
However, beginning 01 June, the restictions were modified and in particular, riding distances have been "unlocked" (Read more). The good news is that we can now cycle as far and long as we would like. The unfortunate news is that the weather has been miserable. June was much wetter than May. I didn't get out on my bike nearly as much as I would have liked.
For this issue I've got three simple rides to share. I've continued exploring the village in the report; "Alley Cats". I then went further afield with a very common ride I make to "Newport and Cardiff". And for the last feature I have a very special recounting of an event I created for Parkinson's UK; "55 for 55 Remembrance".
I hope you enjoy my blog. Stay Safe!... and as always, thanks for stopping by.
Seeya down the road! - cm
Features
August 5, 2020
MY RIDES - This was my first long cycle in several months and heading down to Cardiff Bay was quite a strange experience. Despite the lack of people wnadering around, the views were exceptional.
► Read more...
► Read more...
June 8, 2020
MY RIDES - Continuing to stay local, I've a second ride where I focus my attentions to the little places I've not seen before. It's a super short ride loaded with photos from Oakdale and nearby.
► Read more...
► Read more...
July 19, 2020
MY RIDES - It's been five years since my event to raise money and awareness of Parkinson's disease. Take a look at some of the images whislt I recount the memories of my epic 55 for 55 event. ► Read more...
DEPARTMENTS
Gear - With over 50,000 miles on her, my Dawes has been my workhorse bike. I cannot say enough about her dependability and comfort. She ROCKS! ► Read more...
Charts - It was a disappointing year in some ways... most notably that I didn't have a single 100 miler. But I did make a fair amount of Solitaires. I'm hoping for more next year!
► Take a look...
► Take a look...
On the Web
Wales Online - It's one of the most legendary climbs for cyclists in Wales. Read about the history of this iconic road along with some fascinating photos. ► Read more...
YouTube - Leo Rogers is damn impressive and inspiring without a doubt. This fella deserves loads of recognition for expanding the realm of cycling. ► Read more...
Out From the Archive
2016 - Part two of my Rhondda Valley weekend trip was great fun and I'm ready to go back! ► Read more...
Sexy Bike Alert!
I'm loving this bike. It has the perfect setup using some modern componetry, yet maintaining a vintage look and it's 100% Italian. ► Check it out.
