A select group of 4 left the Square on a bright morning, heading for the Trumpet. The leader’s dislike of Oaks Lane from Clifford’s Mesne led him to try an alternative, climbing from Taynton to the Glasshouse, then the steep lane from the (closed) Yew Tree to the top of May Hill. Caution inspired 3 riders to dismount for the cattlegrid on the 20% incline, although the fourth proved that we were over cautious as she traversed it without incident. The descent of May Hill via Barrel Lane proved no better than Oaks Lane, and consequently we can conclude that we understand why club rides don’t use this route!
A lengthy stop for a road blockage on Barrel Lane meant that there was no way we were going to reach the Trumpet in any sort of respectable time, and a decision was made to cut short to Longhope. Unfortunately, all indoor tables were taken at Harts Barn, and while the coffee and cake were excellent, we got decidedly chilled.
Another poor surface on Velthouse Lane slowed progress, but Blaisdon was reached without incident. A couple of minor floods around Northwood Green, and a stiff headwind on the A40 rounded off an enjoyable if disrupted ride.
37 miles, 2,300′ ascent @13.3mph
