And did those bikes in current time, ride upon England’s mountains green (well hills actually) and on pleasant pastures be seen?
The designated ride leader was stricken just before the ride and so another “tempoist” returning from a holiday with rested legs, and probably a bit under powered, rode to Kings Square with the task of leading the ride, if required. At first, there was no-one else thinking of being part of the tempo ride and joining the novice ride was contemplated but then another rider appeared who was looking forward to the route advertised.
As we exited Gloucester another frequent young rider who had recently completed a 300-mile solo ride – chapeau!! – joined the two originals and so “tres hombres” set off for Ross on Wye, and what a beautiful morning it turned out to be; even more enjoyable as the weather forecast before had not been good.
The clockwise route started out on the A40 before turning off for Northwood Green and then taking in the picturesque Flaxley Valley, on to Mitcheldean. There even more scenic countryside was appreciated via the Walford valley to get to Ross on Wye, with sustenance taken at the Engine Shed.
The route back went north via the Hole in the Wall Road along the Wye, in full flow, thence the descent via “cider hill” (Westons) to Kempley and Newent where the 300-miler rider called it a day to rest his legs. The two remainers headed back via Upleadon, Hartpury and Maisemore enjoying the slight tailwind and sunny conditions.
ES 57 miles 3,392 ft 15.6 mph