Sunday was one of those rides that just reminds you why we do it.
We met up at Swains Centre, where a few of the group took the opportunity to have a bit of a warm-up : slow manoeuvring, clutch control, balance.
Nothing flashy, just good, solid riding skills being sharpened before we even turned a wheel of the route. That in itself sets the tone.
Then it was time to roll.
Out and up over the Cat and Fiddle Road; and true to form, it was blowing a hoolie. Proper Peak District weather. The kind that keeps you honest. From there we dropped down towards Macclesfield and then stretched things out across the Cheshire plain, heading over to J&S Accessories for the all-important brew stop. The drop off allowed each of us to ride their own ride, with markers set at turnings.
Tea, food, a bit of kit browsing… you know the drill.
The return leg took us back via Stone and Ipstones, eventually picking up the lovely B5053 road : one of those roads that just flows when you get it right. We wrapped things up at The Tea Junction for a quick debrief and a proper send-off. Mick Handley was TEC all day so stretched his legs at the front back to Buxton. Simon Cox was ride leader all day so was able to relax at the back and watch the action from a grand stand seat. Great job both of you. Cheers.
Now, yes… it did rain. Not just a bit of drizzle either; isolated showers and the odd proper downpour. But here’s the thing: no one cared. That’s the difference. Twelve bikes out, and the attitude was spot on. Gave a proper reason to get the Hydro out and clean the Battlestar Galactica when I got home.
We did have one puncture. And this is where the real story is.
There’s always that worry some riders have : “What if I get stuck out there?” Well, this is your answer. We didn’t leave anyone. We all stayed with Simon, got the puncture sorted, had a bit of banter while we were at it, and then carried on. Slight delay, no drama, just riders looking after each other like it should be. TBH the amount of tools that appeared was like feeding the 5000.
That’s what group riding is about.
Twelve bikes is a nice number as well. Big enough to feel like a group, small enough to keep it tidy and well-managed on the road.
Already looking forward to the next one.
I won’t be out this Wednesday—family visiting—but if you happen to be passing my way… give us a toot 👍
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