As preparations for the bike ride continue, and the day we start draws ever closer, keeping an eye on what the weather might do, becomes increasingly important.
The first few days of the ride are starting to look a little challenging, with the potential for gales towards the west. Fortunately, they should have died down by the time we reach the affected areas.
Later in the first week, it should be drier and brighter, though temperatures may be slightly lower than average.
The second week is looking a little better, but there is still the possibility of rain at times. On a positive note, there is a higher chance of more settled weather, with higher temperatures.
So, with luck, the final part of the ride might, just might, end up being sunny!
Other matters
Making sure the bikes are ready for the ride, is just as important as making sure WE'RE ready for the ride. Allan's bike is new, and has very recently had its first service, mine goes in tomorrow.
As far as I can work out, it should mainly be adjustments and lubrication, but, there is a very remote possibility that it might just need a new bottom bracket.
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| Pedal and bottom bracket |
For those who don't know, that's the rotating bit where the pedals go through frame. Basically the part that's under the greatest pressure, especially when going up hill - so it's pretty essential it's in pristine condition - I'll just have to wait and see.
The rear brake pads might need changing, but I've got a spare set anyway, so that's not an issue, and I might just invest in a new rear tyre, as that's the one that gets the most wear and tear from heavy braking - especially when your bike is fitted with hydraulic disc brakes.
The bikes are both insured, and I've even taken out personal and public liability insurance (same policy from CyclePlan), just in case. Proof that not all cyclists are under or even uninsured!
That's it for now, I'll report back on how the bike fares, during its service, tomorrow.
Happy cycling!
Additional information and links
The JustGiving pages for the dementia charities can be found at:
Alzheimer's Society page - https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/martyn-feather-as or text ASDP84 £2 to 70070 (if you wish to donate more just enter a different figure after the £ sign - e.g. £5)
Dementia UK page - https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/martyn-feather-duk or text BIJJ81 £2 to 70070 (if you wish to donate more just enter a different figure after the £ sign - e.g. £5)
We are now also raising funds for a West Sussex based charity, Dementia Support
Dementia Support MyDonate page - https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/martynfeather1
@inmemoryofmymum can be found on both Facebook and Twitter, so you can follow the ride there too. You can also find me on Facebook - Martyn Feather (Skippy), and Twitter - @ZkidooKreativ
The text and photos contained within this blog are the intellectual property of Martyn Feather, unless otherwise indicated. © Martyn Feather 2017
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