Month: September 2016

I knew it was a pretty good ride, but thought I’d look at the stats…

My 9-mile commute into Leicester turns out to be 62% on cycleway* separated from the road.

It’s 75% off-road (includes a few terraced backstreets). And it’s… 94% off main roads!

*Admittedly the separated cycleway is significantly in a poor state of repair. (See Melton Road for starters) If it was a ‘road’ I’m sure it would be a priority for maintenance. I applaud the fact that there is this option of a route away from motor vehicles but with a view to the future and increasing its use, it needs serious attention. In some places, it’s surface is not ideal for purpose, and the decision to mix with vehicles has to be considered. In some places it’s dangerous and it remains to be seen if it’s kept safe for use in winter.

But for now, having the option to ride without motor vehicles is great, and I hesitate to say I recommend it.
Remember motor vehicles have bumpers, fenders, airbags and safety cages etc for a reason. People riding bikes can’t be straightened out so easily.

#KeepCycling

…and so after a spell in both the doldrums and some rough seas, the little red boat found harbour and anchored up for a while. After leaving the land that hope forsook, it’s a reminder; be mindful who you share your boat with… the last few months have been disturbing, worrying and transformative. I replenished provisions, took another look at the charts, did a little exploring with the natives and took stock. We’re now back sailing with a purpose, I think…

Enough waffle! Back on the bike!

After 4 years doing a 7.5mile commute into Leicester, my new route to work is now 9 miles.

Following the tried and tested route through Syston and Thrummy, down Rushey Mead‘s sad excuse for bike infrastructure, but then after a short jostle on Melton Road, it’s off to the canal! Following the Grand Union Canal, a refreshing ride through Abbey Park and then following bits of the NCN (LOL)  to my destination.

The 9 miles by bike takes me 50mins #puff #pant (I have had 6 months off). Note: my bike is a bike for simply riding from A to B. Not a featherweight road racer for breaking the next sweaty record. It has mudguards for the rain, panniers for the packup, and a big bell, etc.

Nerdy bit: After another 2+ years of 32mm Schwalbe Durano Plus tyres, which have been fantastic(!), I’m changing to Marathon Plus Tours (cos the LBS’s closing and selling stuff cheaply, and my Duranos are shot through). So I’ll let you know how the Marathon 35mm tyres fare.

As I say the ride takes about 45-50mins – and the fuel is a banana.
The car trip in (on day one) took me 35 mins (9miles at 35mpg 1.2litres = ~£1.30 each way). This would be more than £12 a week in Fuel.

A bit of the commute can be seen below:

Onwards and upwards.