Was anybody else affected by the wind today? Today I did a
50mile(ish) round trip with a mate off my course. We cycled
out to Buxton, got some feed in a local pub and rode back.
In the hills between Wally Bridge and Buxton, which are
particularly exposed, the wind was savage to say the least.
At some points it was downright dangerous and we had no
choice but to get off and walk. On the way back I think I
was the most scared I have ever been in my entire life. Same
set of hills, the wind was behind us but at an angle,
driving us into the oncoming traffic which was travelling at
around 50mph. In order to not be driven accross the road it
was necessary to really angle the bike into the wind, one
loose chipping or stone and I would have gone, quite
possibly headlong into fast moving traffic. It was the first
time I have attempted this route and for a number of reasons
(the wind being one) we had to cut it short. My mate was
really struggling with the hills because he isnt too fit
(but you have to start somewhere so I was happy to go at his
pace), and the wind made the hilltops imo dangerous.
One other point. My general experience of cycling DOWNHILL
is that it is generally easy. Crank the thing round nicely,
or if you want a break from the monster hill freewheel down.
Not today, Oh no. The headlong wind was such that I had to
crank the bike downhill pretty much as i would up. Stick it
in a lowish gear and pootle along.
Overall I am more tired than I would expect to be for that
route, but not as tired as I could have been, and thankfully
there were no accidents. A good ride, and hopefully I have
found myself a good riding buddy. I just need to help him
shed a few pounds (he's a big lad) and build up some
strength and fitness.
Has anyone else had any fun with the wind this weekend?