Had to get the bike out today, withdrawl symptoms as not been out since the 20th.

As the forecast is bad for the next week, I pushed to go out on the bike. Just didn’t feel like going but DID.

It’s about 7 miles to Ripley Castle from our place by the south side of the river Nidd but 5 back along the north side.

Put on an extra layer (4 in total) and thought that I would have to take off the outer one in I got too hot.

Very surprised that even on getting home I was only warm.

Ripley Car Park had about 50 cars plus others spread around as the centre of car park grass soggy so you get bogged down.

The only pub, the Boars Head looked busy as was another on the way back.

A lot of people walking on the bridal path that goes west from the Castle. People just not aware of cyclists even though I was wearing bright Yellow jacket and flashing lights. Oncomers not so bad except one lady who did see me suddenly changed her mind and just jumped from one side of the track to the other, I just stopped in time.

If coming up behind people you have to be very very careful as in a lot of cases Brain not engaged. To give them some benefit I only saw one other cyclist on my ride.

When 50 yards from home a couple came out of a side road and turned to go the same way as I was going. They just about blocked the road and I was only 5 yards away. A calm Hello alerted them. Just as well It was not a car, but me.

There are a few Tesla cars that go along our road and they would not have heard one of those unless they make a lot of road noise but at 30 mph maybe not a lot.

When home I was surprised to see that I had done 11.5 miles the same as my normal route. However it took 85 min instead of 70. The main difference is my normal route had a very long straight of 4 miles which can be ridden fast. And no people in the way!

In passing the bridal path had lots of dogs not on a lead, you just know that they are going to turn across your path or xyz.

Still a very good ride not pushing hard just cruising most of the time ( not really able to push knackered).

Have to keep an eye on the weather to see when I may be able to go out again. Some snow would be nice if it’s the right type. Love a snow ride if fresh. MTB to the fore.

Final note I’ve been bought a pair of Boots for using when I am logging bright orange/red wellies reinforced for chainsaw use.

Allan C