EuroKClub
General forum area => Euro K Club Events => Topic started by: richtea on February 02, 2021, 10:53:40 am
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After six amazing years of the Wrinklies Run, this year it is time for something a little different.
The original, way back in 2015 was a classic 'Chasing the Sun' route more or less straight across the country from Ness Point in Lowestoft (the most easterly point in the UK) to Aberystwyth (not the most westerly) in Welsh Wales. Because we were not total loonies, we didn't attempt to actually do it in one day, which was the original idea of chasing the sun runs, rather a more leisurely pace, meandering around as befits gentlemen of a certain age...
Everyone agreed it was a top job by Rae and so it became an annual favourite, just not from Lowestoft to Aberwotsit as the following two years were also 'Chasing the Sun' routes again starting in Lowestoft but taking a more meandering route and ending up in Llandudno followed the next year by Lowestoft to Llanelli in South Wales.
As with all route planning, the more you use the same start or end points, the more difficult it becomes to find new and interesting roads and so the last three Wrinklies trips have seen routes from Cleethorpes to Frome, Southport to Clacton and Wheyrigg in Cumbria to Worthing.
We have criss-crossed the country and without going over old ground or heading off to Scotland or Ireland, it is difficult to find new challenges.
Wrinklies Welsh Wramble
Unlike the Wrinklies Runs of yore which were always a point-to-point route over two days bracketed by three nights in hotels a couple of hundred miles apart, this year we are planning a single base in mid-Wales with daily loops on the best roads the area has to offer.
The Cast, so far:
Brian (Phmode) Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Richard (richtea) Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Matt (Matt!) Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Martin (fjtwelve) Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Tom (TomK1300s) Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Bob Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Rae (raesewell) Yes (Bryncelyn Guesthouse)
Ady (Ady00) Yes (Neuadd Arms Hotel)
Philip (Philip!) Yes (Neuadd Arms Hotel)
Colin (flatfour) Poss (depending on dates)
The proposed itinerary is as follows:
When?
Mon 14th - 16th June
Where?
Confirmed base(s):
Llanwrtyd Wells (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Llanwrtyd+Wells/@52.1071625,-3.6421934,16z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x486fb7363d29dc23:0xada01b32f07f88df!8m2!3d52.107586!4d-3.637427), just west of the middle of nowhere.
- Bryncelyn Guesthouse (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Bryncelyn+Guesthouse/@52.1071622,-3.6465601,15z/data=!4m16!1m7!3m6!1s0x486fb7363d29dc23:0xada01b32f07f88df!2sLlanwrtyd+Wells!3b1!8m2!3d52.107586!4d-3.637427!3m7!1s0x0:0xd33f6a49b7919e83!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d52.1076304!4d-3.6389261) (max 7) booked
- Neuadd Arms (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Neuadd+Arms+Hotel/@52.1070171,-3.6422579,16z/data=!4m16!1m7!3m6!1s0x486fb7363d29dc23:0xada01b32f07f88df!2sLlanwrtyd+Wells!3b1!8m2!3d52.107586!4d-3.637427!3m7!1s0x0:0x2213556267cc0d6f!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d52.1075694!4d-3.6381845) (20 beds) - literally two doors along, bookable
We have a confirmed booking for all 7 rooms at the Bryncelyn Guesthouse for those 7 members who are a definite 'Yes'.
Bryncelyn is a 4 star B&B that has never disappointed in many stays there, has off-road parking for half a dozen bikes on their private drive and Lil, the lovely Irish(?) owner, serves a huge traditional breakfast.
The nearest and most convenient place in town to eat supper and be merry is The Neuadd Arms, 50 yards along the street.
The Neuadd Arms also has 20 rooms available for guests but is currently not taking bookings. I have spoken to the chef (who was in doing lunches for the lads in the garage next door) and obviously, if lockdown is finished then they will be open so anyone else wishing to join in the fun will be able to stay there making one big merry group for the all important evening celebrations. I will keep in touch with them as and when Wales re-opens.
[Update 5th Feb: Philippe got through to them via email: 'I made the reservation (i.e. directly, not via booking.com). The landlady asked to let her know as soon as possible if I wouldn't be able show up for any reason, more specifically if any government would forbid traveling at that time; I can pay when leaving, didn't need to pay any advance.']
The Neuadd Arms also has off-road parking and a wonderful public bar and a slightly less salubrious locals bar as well as its own brewery out the back. No, really! The restaurant serves excellent meals with daily specials as well as a full menu.
How long for?
3 core nights at the dual bases, cheek-by-jowl in Llanwrtyd Wells.
What for?
2 full days riding, approx 1.5 - 2 hour sections with 2 coffee/take in the view/fag stops and a lunch break.
Also 2 half-day rides have been added for Monday PM, and Thursday AM if anyone is interested in joining us.
The full day rides start at 9am sharp. Painful, but it's the only way to actually get everyone round and back for opening time!
A day ride is roughly 7.5 - 8 hours once stops are taken into account, so we aim to return by 4:30-5pm.
The half-days rides are 3 hours including a single stop.
Full day routes as GPX 1.1 files:
Download zip (https://1drv.ms/u/s!AkC-5yVQD9HUt5sXW5bfgU1c0xD_Cg?e=C4sHkq)
Full day routes as ITN files:
Download zip (https://1drv.ms/u/s!AkC-5yVQD9HUt5sYZuAm_HcFcCNHvw?e=yKm11c)
Also the optional half day routes as GPX 1.1 files:
Download zip (https://www.poqit.com/half_days_gpx.zip)
And optional half day routes as ITN files:
Download zip (https://www.poqit.com/half_days_itn.zip)
Lastly, for ease of viewing CLICK ON MAPS BELOW FOR GOOGLE ROUTE
NOTE: it's not possible to get Google to exactly follow the above true routes, but these are a pretty good approximation for viewing purposes
Tuesday: Brecons Zig-zag
This is based on one of TomK1300S' excellent routes - thanks Tom!
It covers the Brecons - up down, left right, all over the place. Depending on the weather, there may be a few fag/photo stops added.
Mostly A & B roads.
(http://www.poqit.com/1.Brecons.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1075,-3.6389/51.946,-3.38849/51.8961,-3.29057/51.7896,-3.3684/51.769,-3.3693/51.7673,-3.36511/51.7395,-3.52096/51.9107,-3.47913/51.9462,-3.57008/51.9915,-3.80133/51.8125,-3.86812/51.8054,-3.87439/51.7171,-3.84827/51.9151,-3.58616/51.9391,-3.36259/51.9444,-3.29715/51.9381,-3.2686/52.0002,-3.23563/52.0559,-3.29163/52.1419,-3.4991/52.1079,-3.63692/52.1075,-3.63871/52.1075,-3.63889/52.1074,-3.63862/52.1074,-3.63859/@51.9363019,-3.8389142,10z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Wednesday: Mid-Wales Loop
Mid-Wales, including an optional stop at the Centre for Alternative Technology (https://www.visitwales.com/destinations/mid-wales/centre-alternative-technology).
Mostly main roads, with a bit of single track at the top of the loop near Lake Vrynwy.
(http://www.poqit.com/2.Mid-Wales.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1075,-3.639/51.9673,-3.87349/52.1855,-3.9988/52.2201,-3.93455/52.2357,-3.94991/52.4058,-4.06539/52.4116,-4.01193/52.6233,-3.84013/52.6884,-3.87358/52.7296,-3.82811/52.746,-3.86108/52.7917,-3.55449/52.7428,-3.37842/52.5858,-3.33085/52.5617,-3.32915/52.5365,-3.31652/52.517,-3.31191/52.5145,-3.31004/52.4894,-3.34438/52.275,-3.33634/52.2745,-3.33772/52.1077,-3.63716/52.1075,-3.63888/52.1075,-3.63899/52.1075,-3.63891/@52.3820794,-4.2546949,9z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Half day Monday: Elan Valley (optional half-day)
A half-day route to the lakes and dams of Elan Valley - this is a sight-seeing route. Dams, dams and more dams.
A lot of single track roads, so potentially quite challenging. Also possibly tourist traffic on this particular route
(http://www.poqit.com/3.Elan_Valley.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1074,-3.63873/52.3146,-3.56163/52.3046,-3.62248/52.2929,-3.59193/52.2795,-3.59387/52.2634,-3.5964/52.2591,-3.65598/52.2694,-3.57204/52.1074,-3.6386/@52.2195705,-3.6891219,11z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Half-day Thursday: To the Sea (optional half-day)
A half-day route to the sea. Living in the middle of the country I only get to see the sea about once a year - so it's purely to amuse me. But why not!
Again a lot of single track, so potentially quite challenging.
(http://www.poqit.com/4.To_the_Sea.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1075,-3.6388/52.11,-3.64583/52.1808,-3.69611/52.1922,-3.72126/52.2013,-3.75334/52.203,-3.82119/52.2087,-3.88395/52.2531,-3.99053/52.2469,-4.23832/52.2428,-4.26188/52.2435,-4.25544/52.2115,-4.20252/52.1295,-4.10068/52.02,-3.89838/52.0333,-3.82412/52.0372,-3.7984/52.0474,-3.74865/52.1075,-3.63869?hl=en)
Because we're based at one hotel, there's the option to split into separate groups, and if there are different ideas for that day's ride, folks can head off into the Principality and do their own thing if they wish.
We are not intending to go to North Wales. That's been done, and it's more heavily policed compared to the rest of Wales.
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level of interest: certain.
... into the Principality ...
Hah! We used to annoy the 3 remaining Welsh people in Aberystwyth by calling it that back in the day!
Great work chaps, i'm all for it. This sounds much safer than getting metaphorically dragged to the MotoGP this year too. I did hope to see North Wales but then your justification for avoiding it is well founded, and I'd only be shoulder checking for bloody helicopters if we did head that way, so that works for me :).
One hotel is good for anybody that wants to stay in Wales too. I may even throw on my camping stuff which I can then leave there and decide what/where after.
p.s. I do hope you plan a visit to the fricking incredible alternative energy place or whatever it's called. 3 or 4 years living in Aber and I never managed to visit! :P
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I'm in
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Seems like a plan, do you have more information about the Hotel and routes Rich?
The hotel needs to have enough rooms or we will be spread across multiple hotels, which in my experience encourages splintering into smaller groups which sometimes morph into a clique.
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Just out of interest Rich where have these 11 routes come from? Have you and Brian planned them yourself?
Who have they been tried and tested by?
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I'm interested if by any chance it goes into July - at present I have already scheduled a short break of a few days for 3rd June, as well as the Longest Day weekend (19th - 20th) so June is rather crowded if all works out!
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As the Wrinklies trip has traditionallly started on the First Monday in June Melanie has booked holiday from 23rd June to 4th July so those dates are out for me :-[
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I am up for that, any of June is good for me as I am away in May and Scotland in July, post the route as soon as you have it together and I will add my bit of knowledge fot that area. ;D ;D
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Just out of interest Rich where have these 11 routes come from? Have you and Brian planned them yourself?
Who have they been tried and tested by?
A right mixture, Rae!
We looked at Tom's (thanks Tom!), and the Brecon one is good. We may well use part of it - possibly most of it. Tom also used some good roads heading north/south, so again, they're on our list. We also have some Bikers Britain, Fast Bikes, and some other random place that I can't remember.
I've also played with Kurviger (https://kurviger.de/en), which amuses me no end, and we may use that for jointing parts together.
Brian & I are intending to go and ride them beforehand if Covidly possible, since they're only about 1-2 hours away.
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p.s. I do hope you plan a visit to the fricking incredible alternative energy place or whatever it's called. 3 or 4 years living in Aber and I never managed to visit! :P
Send us a link, and we'll see if we can incorporate it.
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Here (https://maps.app.goo.gl/zJgwTpZ1Jj773j247)
But tbh it's only a semi serious suggestion and it's north'ish near Mac anyway. Nice roads though says my 17 years old memory bank!
Also: remember restaurants? Man! I loved those places.
Let me know if you and Bri fancy company BTW.
Edit: in another stupid suggestion: don't forget that huge zip line up north too :p
Double edit: in actuality riding, scenery and good chat and beer is all we need.
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Have to say 10 out of 10 for the optimism, and Tom is even better...I don’t see us being even close to getting out of jail this side of August....here’s hoping you lot are right.
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Shush! :p
Also, lunch stop at yours on Sept 1st then :p.
I've been waiting for an excuse to buy a rack and luggage.
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Thanks to Rich and Brian for stepping up. Herding cats springs to mind.
I am interested in joining you but have a couple of questions before committing too much. I'm a bit nervous of group riding, having done very little over the years. What sort of pace do you run at? June should be okay for me, but work commitments and lack of holiday means at least adjoining a weekend is better, but maybe that doesn't work for everyone else, do you have any feel for which nights you would be looking to book?
I've never ridden in Wales, but have always wanted to. The single hotel location and loops out works really well for me and I am sure you can find some belting roads around mid Wales
Jason
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If you can handle a K, Jase, you can ride with a group, I promise.
In general group riding is at a more relaxed speed than travelling solo, or in pairs, say.
In fact (don't tell anyone) but it can seem very pedestrian at times. And then you hit a bit of traffic/overtakes, and oh - better gather your skirts up.
Rae can correct me on this, but I think we travel at maybe 40-50mph average over a whole day when it's across country. We might have some fun out in the sticks, but we'll be doing spot on 30mph in town, so it averages out.
A group acts like a squeezebox - it stretches right out during the fast bits, and shrinks back together in the slow bits. If the Leader were to bomb off at their favourite personal pace, he/she will have lost half the group 20 miles in because of traffic lights, overtakes that only half the group can execute on that particular stretch of road, and so on. So a good leader (that's Rae if we're lucky) will pace the group - wait when necessary to gather everyone up for the major junctions, and other neat tricks.
Other things to know:
- if you're new to group riding, you need to be the person behind the leader - then you're not under any strain about directions, speed, keeping up, etc.
- you mark junctions/decision points for the rider behind you, i.e. if the rider behind you isn't visible, you sit on that junction, until you know they've seen you. Then you can carry on, and catch up the rider in front, who may be out of sight, but you know they'll do the same for you at the next junction. But for most of the day, you'll be in sight of the rider in front & behind.
- through town we stagger (and at night coming back from the pub) so the 2-second rule applies to the rider two positions ahead (immediately ahead is only 1 second away, but not in direct line, so you still have 2 seconds to gather your wits)
I've popped you in the top post as a Possible. :)
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If the covid situation and the dates are OK, I may join you. But don't mark me as "possible" just yet, as I think there's still way too many uncertainties for the moment (especially when coming from abroad).
OTOH just saying : if, like Rae indicates, you keep the traditional first monday of June (i.e. June 7th) as the start evening, you risk interfering with the Old Gits' trip (if that's something you'd take into account).
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You'd be most welcome. Again!
Clashing with the Old Gits metaphorically speaking, isn't a real concern, two different demographics.
As to Chris's optimism ( :) ), this is a moveable feast.
The whole thing has a number of risks associated with it...
The whole country might still be in lockdown...
We might all be dead...
The whole country could be staycationing with no room in any hotels, anywhere...
The roads could be clogged solid with eejits who haven't driven for more than a year...etc. etc.
It is easier to move a planned date than not have a planned date at all.
And to add to Richard's comments on group riding I would just add that none of us are hooligans on rice rockets; you need the Old Gits trip for that :) :) :) :) No, seriously, like them, we are all experienced riders who like to make progress safely.
Using a single base also means less time pressure to 'get somewhere' you have booked into so if you need to drop off the group for a 'rest' or a 'thrash' then it is easy to pick the group up again.
And, as has been known to happen in wild Wales, if it hisses down, you may find me in the bar getting high on coffee rather than getting soaked out there trying to get to my bed for the night 8)
The specifics of the source of some of the routes are...
Tom's routes (and we know how he likes his routes)
'Biker's Britain'. A book published by the AA containing the best roads in the UK provided by readers of RiDE magazine and all ridden and tested by Simon Weir, their then deputy editor.
'Great Riding Routes', a booklet published by Fast Bikes magazine with routes sourced as above.
Brian's Brain. It ain't what it used to be, but I've been heading into mid-Wales for years and haven't found a bad road yet and have ridden and forgotten most of the ones we will be using. There are one or two 'little horrors' out in the badlands which we need to avoid. Tom and Ron and I meandered down one I have 'driven' in summer when it was heavenly. On the K's in wet weather, with mud and gravel strewn all over the damn place from the logging lorries, the road to and from the dam was awful with more rear (and one or two front) wheel slides than is good for one's under garments. And that was at not much above walking pace. Matt can go and ride that one for us all :)
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Haha I was about to say shall I get the Anakee tyres fitted! :p (block tyre)
Your dam tail reminded me of a trip in my friend's Favorit to try and get to a dam near Aber in the snow. Got half way, turned the car round on some single track road with steep drop and steep climb either side. Drove back and he got it sideways and thankfully lodged into the snow on the steep climb side! Cue obligatory farmer and that was in the days when we carried cash luckily!
Lovely place in the bone dry though. But maybe not on 2 wheels even then.
How are your meat tenderisers Bri?
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Thanks to Rich and Brian for stepping up. Herding cats springs to mind.
I am interested in joining you but have a couple of questions before committing too much. I'm a bit nervous of group riding, having done very little over the years. What sort of pace do you run at? June should be okay for me, but work commitments and lack of holiday means at least adjoining a weekend is better, but maybe that doesn't work for everyone else, do you have any feel for which nights you would be looking to book?
I've never ridden in Wales, but have always wanted to. The single hotel location and loops out works really well for me and I am sure you can find some belting roads around mid Wales
Jason
A comment on the pace of group riding and the implication that things might be a little quick. The first is obvious. Never ever ride at a pace you are uncomfortable with or don't feel safe at. Stuff everyone else in the group. Your pace is your pace is your pace!
The second is probably less obvious. Almost every group I have ever ridden with ends up going slower than even the slowest rider would have done on their own. That's because the slowest rider dictates the group pace but is slowed up because they need to make sure they know what the person in front and the person behind is doing. Traffic becomes a nightmare because you now need to get a number of bikes past instead of just one. There's always someone who wants to stop and check something, talk about something, rearrange something etc.
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You'd be most welcome. Again!
Clashing with the Old Gits metaphorically speaking, isn't a real concern, two different demographics.
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There are at least two on here who will be on the Old Gits trip.
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Thanks to all for easing my group riding concerns. 40-50 mph average sounds like it is my comfort range, and I'm glad to her that 30 in 30 limits is also followed. I therefore feel I can fit in pretty well, I'm not a slouch, but having seen the pace some groups ride at, when they come flying past, it is probably best to check. I'm grown up enough to ride at my own pace, but am aware that if I'm too slow, then I'm potentially spoiling others ride as well.
Thanks for putting me down as a possible, if work allows, I'll be there.
Jason
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There are at least two on here who will be on the Old Gits trip.
It can be done : from the Brecon Beacons to Portsmouth is about a 3 hour's ride : arrive at 17:00 o'clock at the hotel from the ride, and head to Portsmouth to be there before 22:15, take 21:15 to be safe enough. I don't know if I myself would do it. I may not be enough of a die hard ???
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You'd be most welcome. Again!
Clashing with the Old Gits metaphorically speaking, isn't a real concern, two different demographics.
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There are at least two on here who will be on the Old Gits trip.
Still two different demographics David. No-one who was considering the Pecos for a week would be interested in cancelling for three days in mid-Wales as the alternative. Perhaps some die-hards would do both if there were no clash.
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You'd be most welcome. Again!
Clashing with the Old Gits metaphorically speaking, isn't a real concern, two different demographics.
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There are at least two on here who will be on the Old Gits trip.
Still two different demographics David. No-one who was considering the Pecos for a week would be interested in cancelling for three days in mid-Wales as the alternative. Perhaps some die-hards would do both if there were no clash.
I'm not sure I agree with your definition of demographics but I agree that anyone signed up for Northern Spain is unlikely to cancel for Wales, even given the "strange times" we find ourselves in.
I think the point being made was to see if there was a "no clash" option.
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Hang on, I thought the Wrinklies was for lizard people? That's why I sign up for this one after you-know-who told me to stop flying over the
palace house.
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I think the point being made was to see if there was a "no clash" option.
Ah - apologies for the clash of dates, David. :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
I was trying to pick as close to our traditional '1st full week in June' slot, but that's not available for some members (i.e. me - due to previously arranged engagements being pushed into 2021).
We also have issues if we leave it to JulyAugust - and school holidays are obscenely expensive. So it's probably going to be mid-June (14th), or - driven by Covid - some later date.
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So is that a semi-fixed date 14th to 16th june, with any Covid restrictions at the time, and do we have any of the routes to look over yet.
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Correct, Tom. Semi-fixed is an excellent way of describing it. That's as good as it gets during these odd times.
Brian will be adding some hotel details very soon.
I will follow up with some routes - hopefully in the next day or three. One will be familiar to you. ;D
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One will be familiar to you. ;D
So you have to ride it backwards.
And blindfolded.
With your throttle hand tied behind your back.
And you'll still be in the bar before I will.
So the brewed-on-the-premises beer is on you... :)
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What was this meant to be? :) :) :) :)
After six amazing years of the Wrinklies Run, this year it is time for something a little different.
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[NO - just a copy/paste quote cockup!]
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So the brewed-on-the-premises beer is on you... :)
Home made beer? Yaaay! :D
And I think Richard's update was to signify he updated the OP with the semi fixed date.
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Finger trouble...
Which is absolutely acceptable when loading logs into my stove 'cos a) it makes no difference and b) you can't see it.
C'mon biscuit, sort it...
[SORTED - richtea]
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Obviously, Wales is currently closed, so making firm decisions on accommodation is rather difficult, most of the hotel owners have gone off to their holiday homes in Barbados or Newquay for the duration...
We have tentative dates of 14th to 16th June and the current plan is to base ourselves in Llanwrtyd Wells ( 9C4R4946+XJ ), a wonderful village about 20 miles south of Rhyader and voted Village of the Year in 2009.
We have a confirmed booking for all 6 rooms at the Bryncelyn Guesthouse for those 6 members who are a definite 'Yes'.
Bryncelyn is a 4 star B&B that has never disappointed in many stays there, has off-road parking for half a dozen bikes on their private drive and Lil, the lovely Irish(?) owner, serves a huge traditional breakfast.
The nearest and most convenient place in town to eat supper and be merry is The Neuadd Arms, 50 yards along the street.
The Neuadd Arms also has 20 rooms available for guests but is currently not taking bookings. I have spoken to the chef (who was in doing lunches for the lads in the garage next door) and obviously, if lockdown is finished then they will be open so anyone else wishing to join in the fun will be able to stay there making one big merry group for the all important evening celebrations. I will keep in touch with them as and when Wales re-opens.
The Neuadd Arms also has off-road parking and a wonderful public bar and a slightly less salubrious locals bar as well as its own brewery out the back. No, really! The restaurant serves excellent meals with daily specials as well as a full menu.
Anyone else wishing to join in the Wramble should send their name and bank details on the back of a £20 note to the usual address.
Or, post up your interest here, it'll be cheaper in the long run :)
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Thanks Brian. I've updated the original post at the top of thread with all the latest details.
I will get some of the suggested routes finalised in the next day or two, and post them up, for the amusement/ridicule of all.
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level of interest:
p.s. I do hope you plan a visit to the fricking incredible alternative energy place or whatever it's called. 3 or 4 years living in Aber and I never managed to visit! :P
The new coal mine is not in Wales but in Whitehaven in Cumbria. We should have gone there last year before they dug it all up.
Or was the first new coal mine in the UK since I was 23 not the alternative energy place you had in mind ?
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level of interest:
p.s. I do hope you plan a visit to the fricking incredible alternative energy place or whatever it's called. 3 or 4 years living in Aber and I never managed to visit! :P
The new coal mine is not in Wales but in Whitehaven in Cumbria. We should have gone there last year before they dug it all up.
Or was the first new coal mine in the UK since I was 23 not the alternative energy place you had in mind ?
Hah well seeing as smoking is finally going out of fashion we need to keep "black lung" going somehow and that is as good a way as any!
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Now that the dates are fixed (more or less, at least), I've decided to join you. So I'd be the first to stay at the Neuadd Arms hotel, hoping I'll not be the only one there. Just to know, Richard : I intended to book myself ? The lady of the house (I emailed her) is willing to take my reservation, but I didn't reserve yet, not knowing your intentions for the rest of the bookings.
Which makes me have to check now which papers I'll need by then : does anyone know if a EU- ID card will still be valid, or will I need a "real" international passport by then ?
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Good to have you along Philippe, I shouldn't worry about being the only one staying in the pub, I'm sure you won't be alone and the rest of us will be eating and drinking there anyway. As for documentation, I'm not sure, however I got myself an IDP just in case and it was only about £5 so not a big cost. Best to check your government website.
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IDP = international passport, I guess? I'm not so much worried about the cost, I even already have an international passport, but I wonder if I should have it updated. Plenty of time left, anyway. I'll check indeed. And I don't carry cigarettes nor a lot of booze, so other custom checks are nothing to worry about 8)
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IDP is an International Driving Permit.
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Now that the dates are fixed (more or less, at least), I've decided to join you. So I'd be the first to stay at the Neuadd Arms hotel, hoping I'll not be the only one there. Just to know, Richard : I intended to book myself ? The lady of the house (I emailed her) is willing to take my reservation, but I didn't reserve yet, not knowing your intentions for the rest of the bookings.
Excellent Philippe! That will be great.
When we say we've 'booked' Bryncelyn Guesthouse, Brian has reserved the dates with the landlady, but not paid.
If the Neuadd Arms will take the same approach (i.e. no cost/risk to yourself), then that is definitely worth doing.
What you want to do is avoid losing a deposit / payment due to Covid-19.
If she will let you do a provisional booking to hold the room for you, then that's perfect. Then when we know the date is safe (from Covid) that's when you can commit a deposit/payment.
She may also allow a refundable deposit - which I guess is OK, but I'm always a little wary of handing over money. :o
So - book it's if pretty risk-free, and we will keep an eye on when the English/Welsh government intend to lift lockdown, and let you know. That might be March / mid-March beforfe they're sure, but that's pure guesswork on my part.
I've added you to the top post.
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Excellent, I made the reservation (i.e. directly, not via booking.com). The landlady asked to let her know as soon as possible if I wouldn't be able show up for any reason, more specifically if any government would forbid traveling at that time; I can pay when leaving, didn't need to pay any advance.
Just so you know : upon me mentioning "a group" (of UK bikers), she informed me that there's a discount as from 10 (or more) people. But maybe considering not to make bad neighbours is as good an option, in that (after all) small town (as I am about sure she doesn't know about your stay 50 yards away)...
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Good info for others thinking of booking, Philippe. You've done better than us, in getting hold of the owner!
I've added that info to the top post.
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After six amazing years of the Wrinklies Run, this year it is time for something a little different.
...
Please chime in with your level of interest, and suggestions and ideas.
Yup I'm interested, will see at sorting those dates, I'm badly in need of a jaunt like this......Ady
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Good news Ady, I've included you in the first post. Keep us informed.
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Will do Brian 8)
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Now that the dates are fixed (more or less, at least), I've decided to join you. So I'd be the first to stay at the Neuadd Arms hotel, hoping I'll not be the only one there. Just to know, Richard : I intended to book myself ? The lady of the house (I emailed her) is willing to take my reservation, but I didn't reserve yet, not knowing your intentions for the rest of the bookings.
Which makes me have to check now which papers I'll need by then : does anyone know if a EU- ID card will still be valid, or will I need a "real" international passport by then ?
Hello Phillippe
I've just emailed the Nueradd Arms about a room so there will be two of us at least....Ady
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Great to have you onboard Ade!
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Be great to see you, the gang and a few new faces Matt, last year was the first year I could do the whole trip then it gets kyboshed by a lab technician the other side of the world, hey no fingers crossed for this one mate.
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Sounds like a conspiracy theory to me mate. It came from bats. So I've told Waitrose not to send me anymore Chinese bats until further notice.
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...
Hello Phillippe
I've just emailed the Nueradd Arms about a room so there will be two of us at least....Ady
Hello, Ady, thanks for keeping me company :D
I'm really longing to go ride after this year full of near-isolation. Let's hope everything will be OK by then... Just to be sure ... getting into first gear is pushing down, and all the rest up, isn't it ?
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Hi Philippe,
If you want to stay on after (or even arrive before) and do some more miles in the area, letme know. I'm fairly local and also want to spend more time on the roads.
Best regards, Brian
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Heh heh this is going to be a good trip ;D
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...
If you want to stay on after (or even arrive before) and do some more miles in the area, letme know. I'm fairly local and also want to spend more time on the roads.
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Well, Brian, I would consider lenghtening the trip by one day after the wramble (not before), and let the weather forecast of that moment play in the decision too (not much fun to ride an extra day in pouring rain either). On the other hand, that complicates the ferry arrangements. Maybe we can wait a little longer to decide, and just remember the idea for the moment.
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OK, route fun!
Many thanks to Rae for some diligent tidying of my initial attempts.
I've put these in Google Maps to give you a flavour of the suggested routes.
That means they're approximate. (TomTom and Garmin versions will be be made available later.)
Google timings are also slightly optmistic I suspect, for wiggly Wales. It also doesn't include stop times - coffee, lunch, afternoon tea & scones. Yum.
Tap on a map to see it in Google Maps.
Route 1: Brecons Zig-zag
This is based on one of TomK1300S' excellent routes - thanks Tom!
It covers the Brecons - up down, left right, all over the place. Depending on the weather, there may be a few fag/photo stops added.
Mostly A & B roads. (The final part should obviously return back to Llantrwyd, but Google isn't having it.)
(http://www.poqit.com/1.Brecons.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1077,-3.63718/51.9462,-3.38874/51.8962,-3.29053/51.8002,-3.36908/51.769,-3.36929/51.7674,-3.36507/51.7395,-3.52096/51.9915,-3.80133/51.8125,-3.8681/51.8054,-3.87439/51.7171,-3.8482/51.9151,-3.58612/51.9444,-3.27019/51.9381,-3.2686/51.8041,-3.20674/51.8255,-3.09384/51.8476,-3.1317/51.8692,-3.15857/51.8745,-3.1723/51.8897,-3.19005/51.9131,-3.19149/51.9336,-3.18707/51.9578,-3.20261/51.971,-3.21921/51.9935,-3.23592/@51.9330847,-3.7693989,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!4m1!3e0?hl=en)
Route 2: Mid-Wales Loop
Mid-Wales, including an optional stop at the Centre for Alternative Technology (https://www.visitwales.com/destinations/mid-wales/centre-alternative-technology).
Mostly main roads, with a bit of single track at the top of the loop near Lake Vrynwy.
(http://www.poqit.com/2.Mid-Wales.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1074,-3.63846/51.9671,-3.87337/52.1855,-3.9988/52.22,-3.93432/52.2357,-3.94991/52.4057,-4.06532/52.4116,-4.01193/52.6233,-3.84013/52.6885,-3.87302/52.7296,-3.82805/52.746,-3.86108/52.8017,-3.5841/52.7606,-3.45858/52.7469,-3.36791/52.7031,-3.38356/52.6569,-3.25936/52.5876,-3.19115/52.4894,-3.34438/52.2751,-3.33475/52.2745,-3.33771/52.1077,-3.63716/52.1074,-3.63844/52.1074,-3.63856/52.1074,-3.63862/52.1073,-3.63872/@52.3839505,-4.1964761,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!4m1!3e0?hl=en)
Route 3: Elan Valley (optional half-day)
A half-day route to the lakes and dams of Elan Valley - this is a sight-seeing route. Dams, dams and more dams.
A lot of single track roads, so potentially quite challenging. Also possibly tourist traffic on this particular route
(http://www.poqit.com/3.Elan_Valley.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1074,-3.63853/52.3145,-3.56163/52.3044,-3.62223/52.2929,-3.59195/52.2812,-3.59296/52.2634,-3.5964/52.2591,-3.65592/52.2715,-3.56528/52.1075,-3.63881/52.1074,-3.63856/52.1074,-3.63844/52.1074,-3.63829/52.1074,-3.63817/52.1075,-3.63783/52.1076,-3.63749/52.1077,-3.63732/52.1079,-3.63694/52.1091,-3.63531/52.1092,-3.6351/52.1093,-3.6349/52.1096,-3.63451/52.11,-3.63404/52.1104,-3.63367/52.1105,-3.63356/52.1106,-3.63344/@52.2195881,-3.6891202,11z/am=t/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Route 4 To he Sea (optional half-day)
A half-day route to the sea. Living in the middle of the country I only get to see the sea about once a year - so it's purely to amuse me. But why not!
Again a lot of single track, so potentially quite challenging.
(http://www.poqit.com/4.To_the_Sea.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1048,-3.64/52.11,-3.64583/52.1808,-3.69617/52.1921,-3.72069/52.2012,-3.75323/52.203,-3.82117/52.2087,-3.88393/52.2532,-3.99027/52.2469,-4.23863/52.2428,-4.26188/52.2435,-4.25546/52.2115,-4.20251/52.1295,-4.10068/52.02,-3.89862/52.0333,-3.82411/52.0371,-3.79838/52.1048,-3.63994/52.1048,-3.63993/52.1049,-3.63993/52.1049,-3.63996/52.105,-3.64003/52.105,-3.64022/52.1051,-3.64017/@52.1373994,-4.0906597,11z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!4m1!3e0?hl=en)
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Well that's the first day sorted Rich ;D
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Wicked! I will look in detail shortly. Route 1, goes just to the east of a "German village" which some army or other used/use to train invading east Germany. Unfortunately I'm pretty sure we can't get in :(. There's also a rifle range I believe. Bout 5 miles due south and a bit left of where we stay.
OK.
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Wicked! I will look in detail shortly. Route 1, goes just to the east of a "German village" which some army or other used/use to train invading east Germany. Unfortunately I'm pretty sure we can't get in :(. There's also a rifle range I believe. Bout 5 miles due south and a bit left of where we stay.
OK.
We're open to suggestions for places to stop. BMWs in the German village sounds a fine photo op. ;D
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The routes as they are, are over 8 hours, if you add in more stops you should consider shortening the routes.
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Quite right, Rae. I'll adjust it down if there are more stops.
Your slightly shorter Brecons one may well come into play when we get to the final routes.
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First, good url'ing (click on image for map)
Route 1: Wicked. I did pretty much this zigzag when I first hit south Wales. Good times. We also go through where at least a quarter of my ancestors might still live, Crickhowell. So if we stop for coffee there then maybe I can inherit a farm or something.
Lunchwise: I stopped at the Clytha Arms I think. Or at least i have it starred and I only star decent places. But a mile or so west is Steel Horse Cafe which you may guess is motorcycle place. EDIT: sonofagoose there's a village named after us (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Griffithstown).
Route 2: hah! Also yeah is that a stop in Aber? I can try and think where wasn't rubbish if you like. There used to be a decent fancy panini place near the old castle, where maybe we could park on the sea front and get rusty. Alternatively I expect the centre of town sea front still has the bike parking...
Ah one thing: on leaving Aberystwyth, I see we head out on the A44 and then turn north at the roundabout for the A4159. My memory tells me if we do suffer going into Aber proper, then exiting via the A487 past the student village provides for a pretty fun mile or so up to Bow Street. I used to rag the 306 up there and do some definitely safe overtakes.
As an aside and not really workable in Route 2, the A44 has some amazing sweepers, again the 306 used to be able to get me passed a load of stuff when a sweeping left-hander (heading to Aber) around the side of the valley shows the oncoming traffic for the next half a mile :). Also I think on that road (or off it even) is the Red Kite place where I used to mountain bike, and occasionally watch the red kites. Adding this road would probably add an hour or so, so never mind :).
Route 3: Lovely! I'm sure one of those dams is the one we used to go to quite often, so that'd be lovely to see again.
Route 4: No comment. Actually comment: looks pretty fun, hope it's dry! :)
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No worries Rich I am happy to sell you the route ;D ;D ;D
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Route 2 will take you past Cross Gates cafe.
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There is a planned stop at Crossgates.
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The routes as they are, are over 8 hours, if you add in more stops you should consider shortening the routes.
You are correct Rae, when we last did the Brecon run we set off at 08:00 where as we normally start the runs at 09:00, with extra stops and a long stop at P&M we were back at Hereford for 16:30 in total 8.5 Hrs this was taking it steady, we could have picked up the pace and with one less stop knocked 1Hr off the trip but there is a lot to see out that way.
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I like the half past four bit Tom, it's the eight O'clock start that might be the struggle. We don't have to see it all in one go.
As you know I'm more for the riding than the sight seeing but I'll go with the flow.
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8:00. Hahahahaha . No. :P
9:00 is doable - under duress. :o
Agreed, 8 hours in the open air (inc stops) sounds like a sensible max.
Right now, those two full-day routes are both closer to 8h 30m with stops, so there will be a little shaving needed, especially if we add / alter stops.
> No worries Rich I am happy to sell you the route ;D ;D
Rae, you'll be rewarded for your adjusted routes in beer futures. Beercoin. If there's a market rally by June you could get 4 pints, if there's a market crash it'll be half a shandy. If Elon Musk buys in, I'll be mortgaging the Neuadd Arms to keep you in liquid.
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...
As you know I'm more for the riding than the sight seeing but I'll go with the flow.
There's no thumbs up in the smiley set. I'd have pressed it.
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As you know I'm more for the riding than the sight seeing but I'll go with the flow.
There's no thumbs up in the smiley set. I'd have pressed it.
So that's two of us Philippe ;D
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...
Hello Phillippe
I've just emailed the Nueradd Arms about a room so there will be two of us at least....Ady
Hello, Ady, thanks for keeping me company :D
I'm really longing to go ride after this year full of near-isolation. Let's hope everything will be OK by then... Just to be sure ... getting into first gear is pushing down, and all the rest up, isn't it ?
Hello again Phillippe
I have to check the K's owner manual about gear -changing as it has been awhile hen heh, I have heard from Cathrine at the Neuaddar hotel and I now have a room reserved :thumbsup:
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...
Hello again Phillippe
I have to check the K's owner manual about gear -changing as it has been awhile hen heh, I have heard from Cathrine at the Neuaddar hotel and I now have a room reserved :thumbsup:
:winkthumbs:
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I've added you in the top post, Ady. Will be good to see you again.
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Likewise Rich :thumbsup:
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Just to whet your appetite for the Wramble, bikers are not the only ones who like the roads in this area. Both the RAF and the US Air Force as well as many other NATO air forces send their pilots to this region to sample some of the best roads in the UK. From the comfort of their cockpits...
One of the UK's best low-flying areas is centred on Dyfi Forest to the north of Machynlleth (McCunt leth to the English tongue) and known by everyone, including the air traffic controllers who police this area, as The Mach Loop.
The Mach Loop is always flown in an anti-clockwise direction, for fairly obvious reasons, two-way traffic at low level is not a good idea and aircraft can join the loop at any of a number of pre-ordained points.
The loop is bordered by three main roads, the A489 east out of Machynlleth to the A470 following the River Dovey north as far as Dinas Mawddwy in the north east of the loop and then west to the A487 south back to Machynlleth and these roads form the flying route for low-level training.
The second half of the Wramble's Mid-Wales route leaves Machynlleth on the A487 to ride around the loop in a clockwise direction as far as Dinas Mawddwy. This means that, if the loop is in use that day, we may well see opposing traffic of the airborne variety.
We will be on the roads to the lower left of the cockpit of this RAF Typhoon as it joined the loop at Machynlleth before heading for the Lake District.
https://youtu.be/Prnthv4uxeE
Those on K's should be OK, but Matt and Tom had better keep their heads down 8)
Follow this link...
http://machloop.co.uk
...for more amateur videos of big stuff on the loop.
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I once had a close encounter with a Typhoon on the A470 just outside of Dolgellau, frightened the c*$p out of me >:(
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Ah! First time I went up Cader Idris we had one fly past below us. Was an amazing sight! :winkthumbs:
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I once had a close encounter with a Typhoon on the A470 just outside of Dolgellau, frightened the c*$p out of me >:(
I used to be quite inured to the close encounters but down the years it has turned more to manured. Of course, back in my day you heard them a long time before they got to you, apart from the Lightnings but they were nearly always going straight up or coming in with no engines...
Modern beasties are on you before you know it.
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Ah! First time I went up Cader Idris we had one fly past below us. Was an amazing sight! :winkthumbs:
If you watch the various vids you will see the RAF are considerably lower than their US counterparts, although the horrendous Ospreys they operate for both country's special forces come over my place on the way into the Loop at not much above propeller radius height and I know they have enormous props, but even so. And a Chinook went over last hear so low I could literally feel his prop wash in my garden. I would love to watch that mad bastard in The Loop...and pee on him as went by :adolf:
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Ah yes, I have chinooks come over here entirely too often. Not as low as yours by the sounds of it, but I definitely feel as well as hear them! I recall seeing a couple of Osprey actually, but i'm not sure if that was here or somewhere else. Probably was here, there's an airfield north a bit, and this seems a main road for a lot of RAF traffic. Maybe Bensons for beds is where they're going.
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...
If you watch the various vids you will see the RAF are considerably lower than their US counterparts, although ...
They play a home match, don't they. However, apart from over water, I hardly ever saw the wingman even touch the 250 ft level, to be honest. Nothing undiscoverable for any E-3A. Makes me think of some 30 years ago ...
<snip>
ATC controller to AWACS Air Defence controller : "Your aircraft are expected on your freak within a couple of minutes, currently taxying at XXX AirForce Base, squawking nnnn."
AWACS Air Defence Controller to ATC controller : "Contact"
</snip>
At the time, this sounded unimaginable to me (being used to control with ground radar inputs, i.e. blind below anything close to 1000 feet even at closer ranges)
;D
Makes me think of a Mirage pilot stating : "Low level ? Anything above 100 feet, and you're a dead guy, eh !".
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I've added you in the top post, Ady. Will be good to see you again.
I have the leave booked off work now Rich :thumbsup:
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Let us know when you have contacted the pub Ady.
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Let us know when you have contacted the pub Ady.
I have a single room reserved and confirmed by email Rae :thumbsup:
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Excellent news. I think Rae has already nipped in there and updated your status in the first post. Thanks Rae!
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OK folks. There are 17 rooms left in The Neuadd Arms. Let's see if we can get a full house. As it were :)
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I have now confirmed (as far as we can whilst in lockdown) the booking for the 6 rooms at Bryncelyn. No deposits needed and obviously bookings movable if needed.
Lil has also let me know that a 7th room has become available at Bryncelyn. This room is to the same standard as the rest of the rooms apart from being in the loft and not having an en-suite bathroom.
This room was part of the owner's apartment, has a corner window overlooking the village square, a King Size bed that they can't get down from the loft and a private bathroom along the corridor.
So, if anyone else want to join us, there is room at Bryncelyn.
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Sounds like a sniper's paradise.
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We might just make it:
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/feb/21/lockdown-easing-in-england-key-dates-and-phases-in-the-roadmap
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It all depends on what Wales decides.
So, if they are all free the routes will be on, but...
If UK hasn't given us total freedom to wander then we may not be able to get there.
If Wales isn't open we are stuffed. In June at any rate.
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Yup, true.
I'm pretty sure both countries roads will be open to ride.
And in terms of food and drink it should be OK - as long as it's outside. In the fine Welsh weather. 8)
I think it's just down to whether hotels and B&Bs are allowed to cater for non-essential travel.
With their very sensible 5 week cycles, they're aiming at the 21st June target for a full unlock, but we're slightly earlier.
If we travel / mix in sets of 6 it might still be possible.
I feel it's more like 60/40 than 50/50 now. But I'm the eternal optimist. Yeah, right. ::)
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I think we need to have a contingency plan.
If we do need to look at moving the date further out, what is the next available time for us all? Iknow Rae and Richard have other plans.
I'm available anytime. As it were... :-*
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I think we need to have a contingency plan.
If we do need to look at moving the date further out, what is the next available time for us all? Iknow Rae and Richard have other plans.
I'm available anytime. As it were... :-*
Maybe a Doodle (just a suggestion) ? I'd send the link to modify it to you or Richard if you're OK with the principle)
https://doodle.com/poll/ff2p5b4r7fc2mymx?utm_source=poll&utm_medium=link
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Thanks Phillipe but I get enough daft adverts as it is. What is it?
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Thanks Phillipe but I get enough daft adverts as it is. What is it?
a doodle, Brian ;)
Everyone can enter the dates suiting him. Yes, (I think) you are to fill in your email address, but this is necessary if you want to modify it. If you're reluctant to leave your email address in there, someone else could fill it in in your name...
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...or, we could just post any dates we can, or can't make...
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We are never going to please all the people all the time, there are bound to be dates that don't suit someone.
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I think so too. Not in the last place : when showing up with a group of close to 10 people, who'll tell if there will be enough rooms left on these alternate dates at the 2 B&B/hotels.
This is such a complicated setting ...
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I will be sticking with those dates, the ride date is set and most of the route, I will let you know how I get on with the March, April and May runs, all booked.
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I suggest we hold our nerve. We have a date, and bookings. That's better than a lot of people who are probably just trying to book now, in a mad rush.
And see here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-56153628
I expect Wales to come up with a roadmap to help their country plan too.
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I'm with Richard here, let's stick to our dates and only change them if we have to when we have a clearer picture. If we do have to change dates I think it's a case of pick the dates and whoever can make it, makes it, and those that can't, don't.
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I have created this event in the Calendar. You can find a link to the Calendar near the top of every page.
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I suggest we hold our nerve. We have a date, and bookings. That's better than a lot of people who are probably just trying to book now, in a mad rush.
And see here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-56153628
I expect Wales to come up with a roadmap to help their country plan too.
You are missing the point here.
Those people who are just trying to book are going to be booking after 21st June when they can be sure that they will be able to travel and stay. If Lil, or even The Neuadd Arms, get confirmed bookings for the week later then we won't be able to delay. If Lil calls me to say she has enquiries for the 21st, then what?
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If it's the 21st, I'm out I'm afraid. If it suits everyone else I'm cool with that.
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If it's the 21st, I'm out I'm afraid. If it suits everyone else I'm cool with that.
So Rae, when can you make it and when can't you?
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Melanie has holiday booked from 21st June - 4th July
September 6th - 19th
October 3rd - 8th is possibly my French Duffers trip.
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So plenty of space in there. Thanks Rae.
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A little 'bump' to re-awake the thread.
From my reading of the tea leaves, we're still in with a reasonable chance of pulling this off.
More than the chance of your European holiday going ahead anyway, so why not join us? :winkthumbs:
Details are the at top of the thread (https://eurokclub.bike/index.php?topic=4517.msg54614#msg54614).
EDIT: and a little bit more light at the end of the tunnel.
Welshies can now move around their own country:
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/mar/25/welsh-tourism-sector-reopen-weekend-stay-local
And please can we have that blue sky? Please?
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Not looking too good for Phillipe at the moment. Don't know whether international travel will be back on by then. Or at least, not without a 10 day quarantine...
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It's not that you're a lot that I'd dislike in any way, you know this guys. But 10 days of quarantaine is a little too much :'(
Of course you'll all be quicker and better informed than me : once you know for sure that I won't be permitted to attend, could you please let me know (here), please ? Just so that I can inform the hotel : the lady was so kind to let me reserve, she just asked me that I'd let her know as soon as possible if I couldn't attend, so it's not more than fair that I'd let her know as soon as possible. Unless someone else would be interested at that time (see Richard's message).
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Of course we will, and it may all still be OK. They may let you in with a negative test result. Then again...
It's difficult to get any future info on the restrictions for visitors coming in to the country, all the decisions are based on Brits who want to go abroad.
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And another small step forward - pubs & restuarants can be open from the 26th April onwards:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-56594315
Ooh, and get your nails done too. Nice.
No information on actually staying in Wales yet, though.
I think, having read their revised rules (https://gov.wales/coronavirus-control-plan-revised-alert-levels-wales-march-2021), that we need Wales to be at Level 2 to be able to stay in B&B/pubs.
My fingers stay crossed.
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...and of course, we need England to be unlocked. Including for foreign visitors so Phillipe can attend.
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...and of course, we need England to be unlocked. Including for foreign visitors so Phillipe can attend.
I wouldn't hold your breath on that one, as figures are still rising across Europe.
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Quite true, unfortunately. Our peak was early Jan, and took 2 months to come down, plus 1 or more months of caution still being added.
I guess Europe's will be April + 2 months + caution = late June/July at best. :(
However, let's keep watching - it costs nothing to be hopeful.
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...
I wouldn't hold your breath on that one, as figures are still rising across Europe.
True, I'm starting to fear that I'll not be able to participate. We'll see...
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There is no harm in sitting back and waiting to see what happens. You never know someone might put a squib up the EUs arse and they might get a move on with the vaccination program.
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Another update - not yet formal, but the Welsh government's target is below.
First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "It is my assessment that the hospitality sector - bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes - will be able to open indoors from May 17, together with all other tourist accommodation, indoor entertainment and attractions."
But he said it would be for an incoming Welsh government to confirm the arrangements when the next three week review is held on 13 May, a week after the 6 May Senedd election.
Source:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56844189
Note the 13th May date above, but rural Wales relies on tourism for a fair chunk of it's income, so it's quite likely that any gov that gets in will still want to unlock in the same timescales (assuming no nth wave happens in the meantime).
No movement seen on foreign travelling in yet, though, Philippe. I've seen mention of possible Covid passports - but for outward travel only. We're a very UK-centric nation when it comes to news. :(
Anyone else spotted anything positive for incoming tourists?
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Still a good month to go. Who knows.
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Let's keep our fingers crossed for you Philippe :thumbsup:
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Let's keep our fingers crossed for you Philippe :thumbsup:
I hope Philippe makes it over things are starting to look good for May 16th, as for the UK we will have no problems, I did the March run and stopped in Hereford three nights good food and drink most places,
(https://i.ibb.co/gTYKQpx/Cheddar1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gTYKQpx)
(https://i.ibb.co/rxJkGQb/Cheddar2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rxJkGQb)
(https://i.ibb.co/tD35KmN/Cheddar3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tD35KmN)
Last weekend was the run to Cornwall three nights in St Austell again Pubs open all cafes and food stops open, run out to land end on the Monday, Closed ?? ;D
(https://i.ibb.co/zh9ztK1/Corn1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zh9ztK1)
(https://i.ibb.co/0JjrqYn/Corn2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0JjrqYn)
(https://i.ibb.co/yXfkky2/Corn3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yXfkky2)
(https://i.ibb.co/KV9Jb9s/20210419-093913-1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KV9Jb9s)
Stopped and had a chat with the local plod, they had no problems with bikers going down and having a drink and some grub.
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Oof nice. You stopped in weston is that? I did today and am about 75% certain some cretins were about to try and bike jack me. But then Weston is as Weston does, as they say.
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Oof nice. You stopped in weston is that? I did today and am about 75% certain some cretins were about to try and bike jack me. But then Weston is as Weston does, as they say.
Did the English language influence the French there, or (what I suspect) did the French language really influence the English ?
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Aha I think we all know which way round it was most likely to be! I :p
Although until now I didn't know this was one the pilfered words we have here!
Bonnet de douche!
Edit: Tom, love the blue bike! You run any panniers ever?
Double edit: and what's the exhaust please? :)
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Aha I think we all know which way round it was most likely to be!
...
Quel malheur, Matthieu !
See https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/cretin (https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/cretin)
;D ;D ;D
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alluding to the humanity of such people, despite their disability
My favourite part of that link! :D
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Aha I think we all know which way round it was most likely to be! I :p
Although until now I didn't know this was one the pilfered words we have here!
Bonnet de douche!
Edit: Tom, love the blue bike! You run any panniers ever?
Double edit: and what's the exhaust please? :)
Hi Matt, I only use the top box 64Lts, I get most things in there for a weeks riding and if more is needed a roll up on the rear seat,
I will not spend £1000 on an exhaust when these work just as well,
(https://i.ibb.co/B3WHDjP/20190121-143353.jpg) (https://ibb.co/B3WHDjP)
The stop was at Cheddar Gorge for coffee and food, the ride was anticlockwise from Hereford, a great day out with the sun on us all day.
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With continuing optimism (in the UK at least), a gentle bump for this thread.
When:
Mon 14th - 16th June
Where:
Llanwrtyd Wells
If anyone else wants to join in the fun, please check the details in the top post (https://eurokclub.bike/index.php?topic=4517.0) of this thread.
Still no definitive news on the European front, Phillipe, but there is now talk that either a pre-travel negative test or proof of double vaccine may allow Brits out into Europe from 17th May onwards, but not much details of the reciprocal arrangements. As I said previously - it's always all about us going out, and not about people coming in!
We'll keep an eye out for further details.
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...
Still no definitive news on the European front, Phillipe, but there is now talk that either a pre-travel negative test or proof of double vaccine may allow Brits out into Europe from 17th May onwards, but not much details of the reciprocal arrangements. As I said previously - it's always all about us going out, and not about people coming in!
...
Growing pessimism (realism ?) about the evolution made me cancel my room just today. I don't expect I'll be able to attend. And as UK-national travels are already allowed, I think it's not more than fair to give the gentle houselady at the Neuadd Arms hotel the possibility to rent my room to someone local rather than to keep it reserved for me being unlikely to be able to attend after all. Even if I still don't despair, I think it's an appropriate thing to do...
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Ah, that's a shame Philippe - but probably quite realistic.
I've removed you from the list of attendees, but we hope to see you next year, if not before.
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You can always rebook if the situation changes Philippe.
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...and, as a back-up to the re-book, Lil at Bryncelyn has a lovely non-en-suite room on the top floor with its own, private bathroom.
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Thanks for the update Richard. And sorry we won't be seeing you this year Philippe!
I suppose with just over a month to go i should start working out how to get the routes into the phone, the bike app, the bike, the tomtom, and maybe my memory! Should just be enough time... for one or two of those.
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My other half and myself have been out and about quite a bit recently, biggest hassle as life has to conducted outside is finding coffee or food outlets with such even for two, with one exception Shobdon airfield which has both decent catering and plenty of tables, which would probably work for you guys.
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Thanks for the update Richard. And sorry we won't be seeing you this year Philippe!
I suppose with just over a month to go i should start working out how to get the routes into the phone, the bike app, the bike, the tomtom, and maybe my memory! Should just be enough time... for one or two of those.
You missed paper!
I need to finalize the routes. As in take the final wrinkles (Wrinklies?) out when the route is imported into different devices.
It will happen in the next week or two.
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My other half and myself have been out and about quite a bit recently, biggest hassle as life has to conducted outside is finding coffee or food outlets with such even for two, with one exception Shobdon airfield which has both decent catering and plenty of tables, which would probably work for you guys.
By June they're either going to be open - or bust, Chris. :(
Here's hoping it's the former for most of them.
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My other half and myself have been out and about quite a bit recently, biggest hassle as life has to conducted outside is finding coffee or food outlets with such even for two, with one exception Shobdon airfield which has both decent catering and plenty of tables, which would probably work for you guys.
By June they're either going to be open - or bust, Chris. :(
Here's hoping it's the former for most of them.
Best of luck...I’ll need more than a date before I sit next to someone indoors apart from my other half, or are you calling it a ‘2 jabs meet’ ;)
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...and, as a back-up to the re-book, Lil at Bryncelyn has a lovely non-en-suite room on the top floor with its own, private bathroom.
I have booked the above Brian, and you have a PM.
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Glad to have you on-board Glen :winkthumbs:
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Excellent Glen!
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Best of luck...I’ll need more than a date before I sit next to someone indoors apart from my other half, or are you calling it a ‘2 jabs meet’ ;)
I think most attendees will be double-jabbed by then, but it's not a pre-requisite.
Right now, daily infection rate is around 2,000, so assuming only say a 1/3 are spotted let's say 6,000 per day in reality. With a population of 60 million that's about 1 in 10,000 people. The number of people I intend to sit indoors with in the 3 days is quite a small number - well below 10,000. The risk is low, and lowered further still by the jab(s).
And weather permitting, we'll be sat outdoors.
Oh, it's Wales, so make that indoors then. ::)
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I'll probably be the only murderous one in the group, as ever. So I'll pick who I want to sit next to very carefully. Very carefully indeed. BRIAN. :p
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We'll just put a plastic bag over your head and seal it shut Matt, that should protect us >:(
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Ha!
In all seriousness I'll be isolating for the two weeks before so should be as clean as a whistle. Apart from that cat virus thing we all have in our brains.
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I think the majority of us would have had two vaccines by then and as long as we stick to the rules and wear masks and sanitise frequently I'm sure we will be as safe as we can be.
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I think (but can't be arsed to find out) that we took more risks on last year's Wrinklies with the state of the nation and none of us had had the jab then.
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What is the story with the B&B Brian?
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Brian & Badgers,
Yeah good point chaps. If the love of my life wants to meet to critique my lock-down haircut in those two weeks then i'll say yes.
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What is the story with the B&B Brian?
£45 per night per room from memory Rae. Normous Irish/Welsh/English breakfast thrown in. And if you argue with Lil, it will be :)
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I was enquiring more about the sale and how it might affect us.
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Not a jot!
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Good to know :thumbsup:
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We'll be OK anyway. Matt's taking his tent... :)
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And so to routes!
Here are the final routes for the Welsh Wramble. I've also put them in the first post, for ease of discovery.
The basics have not changed. There's been a little more attention to detail to make sure that both TomTom and Garmin devices get the same route.
Many thanks go to Rae for training me up on how to do that. :winkthumbs:
Full day routes as GPX 1.1 files:
Download zip (https://1drv.ms/u/s!AkC-5yVQD9HUt5sXW5bfgU1c0xD_Cg?e=C4sHkq)
Full day routes as ITN files:
Download zip (https://1drv.ms/u/s!AkC-5yVQD9HUt5sYZuAm_HcFcCNHvw?e=yKm11c)
Also the optional half day routes as GPX 1.1 files:
Download zip (https://www.poqit.com/half_days_gpx.zip)
And optional half day routes as ITN files:
Download zip (https://www.poqit.com/half_days_itn.zip)
Lastly, for ease of viewing CLICK ON MAPS BELOW FOR GOOGLE ROUTE
NOTE: it's not possible to get Google to exactly follow the above true routes, but these are a pretty good approximation for viewing purposes
Tuesday: Brecons Zig-zag
This is based on one of TomK1300S' excellent routes - thanks Tom!
It covers the Brecons - up down, left right, all over the place. Depending on the weather, there may be a few fag/photo stops added.
Mostly A & B roads.
(http://www.poqit.com/1.Brecons.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1075,-3.6389/51.946,-3.38849/51.8961,-3.29057/51.7896,-3.3684/51.769,-3.3693/51.7673,-3.36511/51.7395,-3.52096/51.9107,-3.47913/51.9462,-3.57008/51.9915,-3.80133/51.8125,-3.86812/51.8054,-3.87439/51.7171,-3.84827/51.9151,-3.58616/51.9391,-3.36259/51.9444,-3.29715/51.9381,-3.2686/52.0002,-3.23563/52.0559,-3.29163/52.1419,-3.4991/52.1079,-3.63692/52.1075,-3.63871/52.1075,-3.63889/52.1074,-3.63862/52.1074,-3.63859/@51.9363019,-3.8389142,10z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Wednesday: Mid-Wales Loop
Mid-Wales, including an optional stop at the Centre for Alternative Technology (https://www.visitwales.com/destinations/mid-wales/centre-alternative-technology).
Mostly main roads, with a bit of single track at the top of the loop near Lake Vrynwy.
(http://www.poqit.com/2.Mid-Wales.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1075,-3.639/51.9673,-3.87349/52.1855,-3.9988/52.2201,-3.93455/52.2357,-3.94991/52.4058,-4.06539/52.4116,-4.01193/52.6233,-3.84013/52.6884,-3.87358/52.7296,-3.82811/52.746,-3.86108/52.7917,-3.55449/52.7428,-3.37842/52.5858,-3.33085/52.5617,-3.32915/52.5365,-3.31652/52.517,-3.31191/52.5145,-3.31004/52.4894,-3.34438/52.275,-3.33634/52.2745,-3.33772/52.1077,-3.63716/52.1075,-3.63888/52.1075,-3.63899/52.1075,-3.63891/@52.3820794,-4.2546949,9z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Monday PM: Elan Valley (optional half-day)
A half-day route to the lakes and dams of Elan Valley - this is a sight-seeing route. Dams, dams and more dams.
A lot of single track roads, so potentially quite challenging. Also possibly tourist traffic on this particular route
(http://www.poqit.com/3.Elan_Valley.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1074,-3.63873/52.3146,-3.56163/52.3046,-3.62248/52.2929,-3.59193/52.2795,-3.59387/52.2634,-3.5964/52.2591,-3.65598/52.2694,-3.57204/52.1074,-3.6386/@52.2195705,-3.6891219,11z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en)
Thursday AM: To the Sea (optional half-day)
A half-day route to the sea. Living in the middle of the country I only get to see the sea about once a year - so it's purely to amuse me. But why not!
Again a lot of single track, so potentially quite challenging.
(http://www.poqit.com/4.To_the_Sea.png) (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/52.1075,-3.6388/52.11,-3.64583/52.1808,-3.69611/52.1922,-3.72126/52.2013,-3.75334/52.203,-3.82119/52.2087,-3.88395/52.2531,-3.99053/52.2469,-4.23832/52.2428,-4.26188/52.2435,-4.25544/52.2115,-4.20252/52.1295,-4.10068/52.02,-3.89838/52.0333,-3.82412/52.0372,-3.7984/52.0474,-3.74865/52.1075,-3.63869?hl=en)
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Lovely work Richard!
Bri, if the timing works, fancy riding over together? My route to the hotel seems to go pretty close to yours.
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I'm also going within 10 miles of you, Brian (for the price of a cuppa I promise not to divulge your addy 8)).
My intention is to get to Llanwrtwydyrdd Wells for lunch on Monday, and then try one of my half day rides In the afternoon.
Anyone/everyone is welcome to join in.
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It might be useful to know that when we went to Llanbister last week, the junction to the A483 in Newtown was completely closed, leading to a lengthy detour for us. There was no signage to assist at all, simply a sign that said "Road ahead closed" around 100 yards from the junction. Everyone (including trucks) was trying to turn around in the road, leading to total chaos!
The work seemed to be very extensive, so perhaps it might not be finished when the trip takes place? Route two is the one that I think could be affected.
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Thanks FF, I'll double-check that nearer the day.
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Hm Google says it ends June 11th. So... July 11th?
Rich: sounds good.
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This site gives more details than Google
https://one.network/
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And this is why we ride with Rae. 8)
That is one scary set of data. There's stuff down south of Talgarth that would have utterly stuffed our original route 1.
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Martin popped in today for a large mug of tea and a choccie biccie or two.
He is also keen to get to LW early and do one of the 1/2 day routes. Of course, weather will play a part, but if Martin can get there, either via mine or directly, and the three/four of us plan on getting over there early, then it looks like a plan.
Any more takers?
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Hi All,
I know I am still listed as a possible, and I have been hoping that I will be able to find the time, but have to conclude now that I'm not going to be able to join you. I've been looking at the routes and it looks like it will be a great few days, but from the start, I was worried that mid week would be a challenge with work, and so it has proven.
I hope you enjoy it, and the weather takes a turn for the better
Jason
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Sorry to hear that Jason, I will update the list, maybe next time.
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Well I have good news in that I have secured a job. However I have set my start date to the week after so I can go riding :D.
And obviously, continue to mooch around for a few more weeks.
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Excellent! Being between jobs can be scary. Well done Matt.
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Well I have good news in that I have secured a job. However I have set my start date to the week after so I can go riding :D.
...
:winkthumbs: So as from we call you ... ? Mr (just guessing) "business analist", Mr ... "DevOps", Mr "consultant", Mr senior developer ?, Mr ..., Mr ... ? Or do we just stick to ... "Matt" ?
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Well I have good news in that I have secured a job. However I have set my start date to the week after so I can go riding :D.
...
:winkthumbs: So as from we call you ... ? Mr (just guessing) "business analist", Mr ... "DevOps", Mr "consultant", Mr senior developer ?, Mr ..., Mr ... ? Or do we just stick to ... "Matt" ?
Analist? Now that's just a bit harsh.
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...
Analist? Now that's just a bit harsh.
I may be missing something (don't see what, though - didn't want to sound harsh by any means ?)
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Hahaha
1. Thanks Rich!
2. Analyst is the correct spelling. Analist suggests something more to do with bottoms! :D
3. Well probably Mr Consultant if you must, but it's a contract role so probably more derogatory terms! :)
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Do Americans have the same ... "subtlelties" ? No idea miswriting an "i" for a "y" could have such a different meaning ...
Now who claims Dutch is a difficult language, huh ? :o
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Does this mean you're self-employed as from now, Matt ? Or are you in a contract role as an employee ?
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Do Americans have the same ... "subtlelties" ? No idea miswriting an "i" for a "y" could have such a different meaning ...
Now who claims Dutch is a difficult language, huh ? :o
Yup, same for American English. You'll get no disagreement from me that English is a bit mental though! Having friends for whom English is a 2nd language, one starts to appreciate its idiosyncrasies! And cuss them.
I like Dutch! I found it made more sense during my couple weeks wanderings than French which I've in theory been taught most of my school life.
I'm aiming to stick to contracting for now, and avoid being an employee again. But who knows what will happen next. Unlimited possibilities!
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Whew. Finally my brain found a good example:
Dye. "I wish you would dye!" said my wife, and so I finally dyed my jeans back to a nice dark blue. The women at the WI were most relieved.
Die. "I wish you would die!" said my wife, and so i left her as it was clearly an abusive relationship. The women at the WI don't believe me.
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but from the start, I was worried that mid week would be a challenge with work, and so it has proven
That's why it is called 'The Wrinklies' Jase, to keep you whipper-snappers out...
We had lots of talk about 'why is it a weekday thing' back in the day. Being based on less popular roads, the theory was that it would avoid the weekend warriors and the Sunday drivers
Or course, nothing stopping folks from organising a weekend 'do' and posting it up in the 'EuroKClub Events' or the 'Short Notice Ride Outs' sections.
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Attendees, please read your 'logistics' email.
If you haven't received it please let me know (having first checked the Spam folder, which is where most my missives disappear into, and rightly so).
Thanks...
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Rich, the Wednesday lunch stop seems to be the fly in the ointment here. I might get a packed lunch either something from the garage or get the B&B to prepare one. That takes out all the unknowns.
The Starbucks menu is not to everyone's liking and a group of * turning up might be problematic unless previously booked.
Dolgellau has pretty narrow streets and parking is limited, so for me at least it's a packed lunch I think.
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Here are a couple of Spotwalla links for you to share if you wish.
Route 1 https://new.spotwalla.com/trip/502d-26e15844-1128/view
Route 2 https://new.spotwalla.com/trip/ae3e-2691ffc4-de88/view
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Have now got a pass for next week ;D, so booked into the Neuadd Arms Hotel.
Looking forward to seeing everyone next Monday.
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Congratulations! Sounds like it is your round first :)
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Have now got a pass for next week ;D, so booked into the Neuadd Arms Hotel.
Looking forward to seeing everyone next Monday.
Good to have you onboard Philip, Ady won't be Billy no mates now :winkthumbs:
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No, although after a couple days of my company it might be the case ;D
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;D ;D ;D
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Following on from Brian's comments about testing kits, I'll bring some with me, we have a box full here.
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As my comments were hidden (stupidly) in the admin board, here is wot I rote...
As a courtesy, I have ordered a free pack of lateral flow tests so others on the trip will know I wasn't carrying the lurgy when I took the test...
It would be reassuring if others consider doing the same.
You can order packs of 7 (which is about a month's worth at 2 a week) from here...
https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests
...ordered mine yesterday and they are here today. Allegedly! Brian
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Tidy, and thanks again Bri. Just ordered :).
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Nice one Rae :winkthumbs:
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Unfortunately Glen (Bruno) will not be joining us, he's had a bit of a mishap with heat, not serious but prevents him from riding.
So there is now a room available at the B&B if anyone wants it.
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Ah sorry to hear, Glen you will be missed!
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As the trip gets closer my thoughts are turning to which kit to wear, I've been out to day in my mesh jacket and trousers. With temperatures up to 26 C it was a godsend. However if it turns to rain it's a pain to stop and put either the waterproof liners in or overjacket and trousers. Decisions, decisions ???
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As the trip gets closer my thoughts are turning to which kit to wear, I've been out to day in my mesh jacket and trousers. With temperatures up to 26 C it was a godsend. However if it turns to rain it's a pain to stop and put either the waterproof liners in or overjacket and trousers. Decisions, decisions ???
I've just been doing the same thinking. So far I'm edging towards my mesh jacket and carrying the oversized black waterproof thingy someone gave me to put on top if it pours down. Though any small showers shouldn't be a bother with the otherwise nice weather. If I stick with this plan I will probably also switch armour from normal jacket to this, as the stock in the mesh one don't feel as good as my orange stuff.
Of course we've had all weathers over the last few trips so who knows!
Trousers are easy though as I only have one pair :P.
Anyway yes, if under the mesh jacket it's just a base layer, then there's not much left to get soaked. If it properly turns then I imagine we'll pull over and do it properly. Which reminds me I should add "mid layer" to my packing list!
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Ah sorry to hear, Glen you will be missed!
Thanks Matt, I'm gutted (as they say in football....).
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Mesh cover over the horse blanket that passes for a Halvarssons safety jacket. Trousers gotre tex liners out and full 2 piece in the waterproofs in the Sport Case.
You needn't worry about stopping to get togged up, it only takes a few drops and I'm in the pits...
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I'm edging towards leather (like I have a choice) with a compromise of summer gloves. If I can find CE Level 2 ones. Just so at least two parts of my body can perspire freely. :o
I have no problems with the group stopping to put raingear on. In fact I'd encourage it. No point suffering for just 5 mins of getting kit on. You lot might not be used to it, but its par for the course for me.
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Of course we could put our faith in the weather forecasters ;D ;D ;D and get togged up according to their advice ??? :-[
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I have it on good authority that none of the reputable weather forecasters ever leave home without a brolly or full waterproofs...
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Derri boots with holes drilled, and duct tape to block them if it rains. I'm ready.
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As it stands at the moment the weather seems to be in our favour :winkthumbs: we need a fingers crossed emoji.
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With a small panicky face?
(https://www.wxtf.net/img60/fingers-crossed-clipart-230526.jpg)
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In case anyone wants to check the weather along a route this is the site I use. It's the best I have found so far.
The site I used to use was just a start and finish map. On this one you can add waypoints (I don't know how many).
https://morecast.com/en/plan-your-route#
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And Dark Sky for ultra-local weather with an uncanny accuracy for the next hour at your (or any other) location.
So, are those big black clouds up ahead a portent of doom or just casting a pleasant shadow over your route? Dark Sky will tell you. Going for a walk/ride in perfectly clear skies? Dark Sky will tell you whether to take your Pac-a-mac or pack your waterproofs.
Used to be free on the App Store but then it was so successful, Apple bought it. Now I don't know. But it is rarely wrong by more than few spots of rain.
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Dark Skies is no longer available for Android. I now use the Accuweather app which is also very accurate as the name would suggest. But for route weather planning Morecast is great.
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XCWeather.co.uk is excellent. Used by cross country glider pilots when plotting a route.
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My initial advice was for people to look at weather along a certain route rather than just weather.
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In case anyone wants to check the weather along a route this is the site I use. It's the best I have found so far.
The site I used to use was just a start and finish map. On this one you can add waypoints (I don't know how many).
https://morecast.com/en/plan-your-route#
On that site, I have to fill out my credit card details ? On top of that page (of some Columbian domain), there's a mention : (translated) "Your creditcard won't be charged for the free subscription". But worryingly, at the bottom of that same page, there's a checkbox (automatically checked !) with a (very small print) clause which, translated, states : "Yes, I want an extra games subscription package with a 14-day trial subscription for 1.95€, which automatically extends thereafter into a full monthly renewed subscription for 4.95€, unless you cancel it. I accept the conditions of the games bundle".
OK, you can uncheck that checkbox, but what the f.ck ???
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We don't see the same in the UK, Phillipe. I'd be very careful.
Unless you meant the app? That's £2.60/year, and looks legitimate.
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Yeah if you're seeing that on the site, I suggest checking on a different device, and then burning whichever one showed the dodgy stuff.
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It looks like it was a GoogleAd. Brings my "confidence" in Google to yet another level :-X
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I use AdBlock so I don't see all that Cr*p
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I use AdBlock so I don't see all that Cr*p
Exactly.
DuckDuckGo browser + uBlock (+ uMatrix if you really want to see the full horror).
I remember when HTML used to be readable, just like you guys remember distributors.
Just like distributors it definitely wasn't better, but at least you knew where you stood...
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Ditto. Plus PiHole (https://pi-hole.net/) on my home network for even more fun. And it gets around "we've noticed you're using an ad blocker"
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My initial advice was for people to look at weather along a certain route rather than just weather.
The problem with a route of longer than half an hour is that the weather will have changed when you get there...
Currently sitting in Fairford with rain coming down in hammered stair-rods outside. How's that for a summer shower. At least Dark Sky forewarned us.
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I understand what you mean Brian, however on a bike you are not going to stop every 20 mins to look at your weather app. You need to look at the forecast and tog up accordingly and keep your fingers crossed that the forecaster got it right.
Or you can use that old fashioned device known as a window and your eyes ;D
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Much to my surprise I have remembered enough of what Rae told me last year to hack my way through tomtom mydrive and downloading/syncing the gpx routes to my phone TomTom. Don't ask me to do it again or show anyone mind, or ask me the difference between gpx and itn... ::)
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I understand what you mean Brian, however on a bike you are not going to stop every 20 mins to look at your weather app. You need to look at the forecast and tog up accordingly and keep your fingers crossed that the forecaster got it right.
Or you can use that old fashioned device known as a window and your eyes ;D
Falmouth forecast: If I can see the Manacles its going to rain. If I can't see the Manacles it is raining (Manacles are a very nasty bunch of rocks on the horizon towards the Lizard).
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.itn is my route type of choice. The difference is a .gpx file sticks to the exact route no matter what, so if there are roadworks or road closures on route you're stuffed. The .itn route calculates a route from waypoint to waypoint and will re-route around road closures or roadworks. In the case of a waypoint being in the middle of roadworks or closure it will try to get you as close as possible, and you can delete the offending waypoint and carry on.
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I understand what you mean Brian, however on a bike you are not going to stop every 20 mins to look at your weather app. You need to look at the forecast and tog up accordingly and keep your fingers crossed that the forecaster got it right.
Or you can use that old fashioned device known as a window and your eyes ;D
I know I carry most things on the bike and have loads of bling, but a window is something that wasn't on the Wunderlich catalogue. Now searching ebay...
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You have a small window in your helmet 8)
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.itn is my route type of choice. The difference is a .gpx file sticks to the exact route no matter what, so if there are roadworks or road closures on route you're stuffed. The .itn route calculates a route from waypoint to waypoint and will re-route around road closures or roadworks. In the case of a waypoint being in the middle of roadworks or closure it will try to get you as close as possible, and you can delete the offending waypoint and carry on.
.itn is my route planning format of choice too but be careful when travelling as a group. On one of the Old Gits trips we had three people with the same model of Tomtom, the same release of the software, the same version of the maps and the same settings in preferences yet all three devices found different routes between the way-points. We assumed that the navigation devices throw in a degree of randomisation, especially if not using the "shortest" route option, to avoid consistently sending all traffic along the same roads thus restricting overall traffic flow.
If using .itn for group route planning then lots of way-points are a good idea but you then get back towards the road closure/delay issues you get with .gpx
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Enjoy your trip everybody!
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Enjoy your trip everybody!
Same from me !
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It's a shame you cannot be with us Philippe :( next time maybe. Or maybe October if my Duffers trip goes ahead.
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Rae, it's not all too bad : subtracting 60 from 90 makes 30 other opportunities to join (thinking positive, that is) ;D
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Enjoy your trip everybody!
And you David! We'll be thinking about the midges but hopefully we all get decent weather.
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Just hope you do not get a day like yesterday, we went Ponderosa and then to Barmouth, jeeze was like a bad in February even in a van it was interesting...although it did come good by 4 pm :) but their are plus’s the human race disappeared for most of the day which was great.
And for you guys who haven’r gotten out much this Covid thing has had a serious effect on car drivers.....
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And you David! We'll be thinking about the midges but hopefully we all get decent weather.
Midge Magic packed (http://clipart-library.com/images_k/green-checkmark-transparent/green-checkmark-transparent-17.png)
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As our trip draws ever closer the weather forecasts should (I said should) get more accurate. It looks like the temperatures will be pleasant without being scorching and a mixture of sun and cloud. So far so good :winkthumbs:
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Yup. W/proofs packed, vented jacket cover on (entered stealth mode as it's black 8) )
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Although, we are probably all going to get a wetting on Thursday... ::)
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Ack just saw that myself. Still, I'm going to risk it, mesh plus emergency waterproof thing.
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Because I have lashings of space I'll bring my mesh and normal textile jacket 8)
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Because I have lashings of space I'll bring my mesh and normal textile jacket 8)
Arg don't temp me!
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Although, we are probably all going to get a wetting on Thursday... ::)
Just Thursday is great! Wales averages 1 day in 3 being wet in summer, and we'll be in the 1-in-4 bracket.
It makes up for the water coursing down the valleys & into Llanelli 4(?) years ago. ;D
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Covid negative here. Fricking nose tickle test complete. :thumbsup:
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Ditto. See you later.
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Just pulled in to the Station Cafe, Craven Arms. See you all soon
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The Herefordshire contingent of Martin, Matt, Richard and Brian finally arrived at Llanwrtyd Wells at twenty past one having stopped for a convivial chat and a quick sticky string repair of Martin's rear tyre. We'd gone about 20 miles when Martin called to say he had a TPMS warning and I thought it would be fun to pull into the entrance to the Credenhall barracks of the SAS! You have never seen so many men in black standing in the road fully armed...
Having met up with Philip and partaken of Lil's excellent packed lunches, we decided to ride the gravel-strewn roads to the seaside at Aberaeron today and save the local 1/2 day sight-seeing jaunt around the dams until Thurs due to the impending precipitation. Tom and Bob were already getting some beer down their necks outside the pub as we passed by but ours would have to wait.
The roads were challenging, the traffic splendidly light, the police notable by their absence and the ice-cream at the harbour-side really quite wonderful.
The narrow lanes to the west of Llanwrtyd eventually spat us out onto the infamous Abergwesyn to Tregaron coach road, named after the old mail coaches that braved the bandits and the potholes to get the post and passengers over the otherwise impassable wastes. In most places, this thin strip of tarmac looks as though it were drizzled like syrup from the hand of God's kitchen maid rather than being 'laid' like a normal road. I'm sure there was a straight or two somewhere and perhaps even the odd flat bit but most of it was a snaking, twisting, bucking roller-coaster of a ride and as wonderful as ever. Perhaps not the K's natural home and maybe Matt on the GS found it easier going in places, but it was roundly enjoyed by all.
Tomorrow sees the whole group set off to tackle the roads to the south, through the Brecon Beacons and across the Heads of the Valleys.
And so to bed...
Aberaeron has instigated a traffic-calmed one-way system which was a great idea if only someone had told the guys at Garmin.
The return journey was a mix of frustrating but even more challenging 3-ply (tarmac/gravel/tarmac) together with some wonderful sweeping A and B roads which delivered us nicely back to Lil's in time for a pint or three and supper in the local pub and an opportunity to catch up with Rae, Ady, Tom and Bob.
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What no pictures?
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What no pictures?
Someone has, blame them for not posting them.
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Can't easily post from mobile to my server, sorry.
Thursday!
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Some photos!
Weather was fabulous, routes were really fun, company was excellent.
However, whichever eejit* set the waypoints needs to say sorry. I'm waiting.
Click on images to get full size one (right-click open in new tab works better for the larger ones).
Setting off on Monday from Brians:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/1.jpg)
Monday PM: Aberaeron harbour, with two-person transatlantic rowing boat:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/2.jpg)
Ice cream at Aberaeron from the Hive. Mostly gone at this point. Left to right: Philip, Matt, Martin, Brian:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/3.jpg)
Tues AM: Roadhouse Cafe at Merthyr Tydfil. Mostly a car sales compound but the tea was welcome after a trip over the Brecons:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/4.jpg)
Tue PM: Mountain Road Viewpoint, Brecons. Ady on the left, Rae on the right:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/5.jpg)
All-singing all dancing Rae!
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/6.jpg)
Tue PM: Llangorse 'Lakeside' cafe. The lake is a loooong way in the distance. Brecons in the distance too, to the south:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/7.jpg)
Tues PM, back to the B&B. this is the view from it over the mountains to the west, plus a couple of red kites:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/8.jpg)
Wed PM: Lake Vrynwy. Left to right: Matt, Brian, Philip:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/9.jpg)
Two rock power stances - a band promo photo?
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/10.jpg)
Thu AM: Elan Valley:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/11.jpg)
Matt in his happy place:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/12.jpg)
Elan Valley dam:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/13.jpg)
Elan Valley dam engineering insights from Martin:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/14.jpg)
*It was I.
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Is Ady riding a GS too, these days ?
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No, Ady has a K R
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Yes, that's what I remembered, but I hadn't seen it anywhere on the photographs.
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It's there somewhere hiding behind another bike. The GS is Tom's.
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A very enjoyable few days, good weather, great and largely empty roads, good company, I very much enjoyed it. Thanks to the organisers. Reality returned this afternoon as I fought my way through the crowded roads around Bristol and strained my neck into the brisk crosswind along the A30. 1250 miles exactly since I left the house on Saturday morning but the tyres have been rounded off again. :winkthumbs:
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I was going to ask why I looked 5’ 5†tall in the photo but then realised that’s what my height actually is ;D
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Is Ady riding a GS too, these days ?
How did you know I use to ride a GS?...asking for a friend ;D
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Well I had a cracking time thanks to you all, 740 wonderful miles for me in total and great company throughout, long may we keep burning fossil fuels doing this, and shout out to Martin for wanting to organise a West Country Wrinklies trip, I’m sure he will denigh saying he would organise it due to modesty however, in my book, credit where it’s due eh 😁
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Well, if the route contained some misplaced waypoints, then for sure the photographs contained some misplaced GS's : not a single R... ;D :-X
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Yes, that's what I remembered, but I hadn't seen it anywhere on the photographs.
Here we go - Ady's K1300R at Merthyr:
(http://www.poqit.com/2021-Wrinklies/15.jpg)
Sorry for not having a higher res shot.
Very very nice custom seat by the way, Ady.
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Well, if the route contained some misplaced waypoints, then for sure the photographs contained some misplaced GS's : not a single R... ;D :-X
I parked her in stealth mode, K13r's can do stuff like that, no really, just watch Dhoom 3 to see there amazing abilities😁
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Yes, that's what I remembered, but I hadn't seen it anywhere on the photographs.
Here we go - Ady's K1300R at Merthyr:
Sorry for not having a higher res shot.
Very very nice custom seat by the way, Ady.
Cheers Richard my bum certainly appreciated it.
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A big thanks to Richard & Brian for organising the routes, even if some waypoints were misplaced :o & I'm sure others had a hand in too.
I think everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable few days of riding some of the best ( & worst LOL ) roads that Wales has on offer.
To Matt, hope your not getting Gandhi's revenge from the Beef Phall we had Weds evening like I am ;D
Hope to see you all again soon.
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Here we go - Ady's K1300R at Merthyr:
...
:thumbsup:
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A big thanks to Richard & Brian for organising the routes, even if some waypoints were misplaced :o & I'm sure others had a hand in too.
I think everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable few days of riding some of the best ( & worst LOL ) roads that Wales has on offer.
To Matt, hope your not getting Gandhi's revenge from the Beef Phall we had Weds evening like I am ;D
Hope to see you all again soon.
Oh no! Touch... raw meat, I'm OK so far! But I did spend most of Thursday inspecting sheep feet and getting headbutted by them so I've probably got ... foot and sheep disease instead :D.
It was a great time as ever, I particularly enjoyed... my GS suspension! Unfortunately the rain got me today on my way home. The last hour and a half on the m4 was constant rain and heavy spray. I think my feet were the only dry bits left.
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A great run out with fantastic weather all week not a spot of rain even on the run home, well done to Richard and Brian it was nice to see you all again and enjoy the evening banter with good food and drink.
(https://i.ibb.co/hY0ZYDm/wr2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hY0ZYDm)
(https://i.ibb.co/WWfWjZ6/wr1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WWfWjZ6)
(https://i.ibb.co/wpPxCWS/wr3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wpPxCWS)
(https://i.ibb.co/Ws1rvTB/wr4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Ws1rvTB)
(https://i.ibb.co/ySKjjdn/wr5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ySKjjdn)
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Nice and very enjoyable photographs from all of you !
I don't know if I understood everything correctly, but as far as I understood, I'll want to know which parts of the route were "problematic" (or did I even understand "kind of off-road" ?). Because once these covid restrictions are out of this world (later in the year - or who knows only next year), I'll want to ride these routes. I might contact Richard for that later on...
How was (the lodging and) the food in the Neuadd arms hotel ?
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Let's just say that some of the roads were 'challenging' if you are
a) a beginner,
b) on a K or
c) a wimp
We all managed manfully...
We call them 3-ply, as in plywood. Tarmac on the left and right with gravel or grass or both in the middle. This, along with twists and turns every few metres makes them much more suitable to a GS or off-road bike than to a K, my little Honda would have flown over them.
The bits without gravel were fast, flowing and very enjoyable. I have never had orange-peel on my tyres before...
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looking real good gents... not jealous at all.... no, not at all...well, just a wee bit.
there are(i think) 2 gs' in one of the first set of photos.
buggers, i am jealous...some of you didn't even see rain, how is that even possible?
that's it , i want a good run away.
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It has to be a global phenomenon, four whole days in mid-Wales and barely enough rain to make one wipe the visor.
We never had to stop to put waterproofs on and most of us were actually getting quite dehydrated despite all carrying water and stopping more often than usual.
I only saw one police car out menacing innocent folks but Martin spotted the odd one I didn't see. Two camera vans in operation and one copper out of his van waving his magic hairdryer around in a 20 zone. No sympathy whatsoever for anyone nicked by him that day.
The roads in mid Wales are very nice tarmac compared to some of the rubbish in England and that led to lots of enthusiasm in the cornering department. That part of Wales also has lots of innocent looking straights, most of which just draw you in and there lies the rub; camera van sites on almost every one so with my Garmin bonging away, we duly trundled along them at almost legal speeds and sometimes even below the limit. Well, it helps to cool the ardour...
The run around the dams in the Elan valley on Thursday morning was a delight. I have never done that run and seen so little traffic. Not a single coach and no dawdling grockles whatsoever. In fact we were the sightseers...
Mid-Wales has never disappointed me and this trip was no exception. Brian
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Nice and very enjoyable photographs from all of you !
I don't know if I understood everything correctly, but as far as I understood, I'll want to know which parts of the route were "problematic" (or did I even understand "kind of off-road" ?). Because once these covid restrictions are out of this world (later in the year - or who knows only next year), I'll want to ride these routes. I might contact Richard for that later on...
How was (the lodging and) the food in the Neuadd arms hotel ?
Food was good - standard pub fare but well done. I can't speak for the lodging since we were in the B&B. Ady or Philip will be able to comment.
In terms of route problems there were several reasons. Here's the breakdown:
With reference to the MyRouteApp maps, and links to Google Street View.
Summary of problems:
1. Ancient Garmin device failing to update fast enough at vital junctions - four times
2. Incorrect route - twice
3. Incorrect route loaded onto device - once
4. Google Maps took us home to Llanwrtyd Wells! - once
Elan Valley:
The run up to Rhayder is fast sweeping A & B roads.
The Elan Valley roads are minor roads, some are single track with passing areas. Very little traffic, but we went in the morning which may have helped.
We chopped off the dead-end spur (waypoint 7), because we'd seen many many dams by then!
Didn't get lost :-)
Brecons:
Started off on the wrong foot since we didn't have the Brecon route on the Garmin.
We then used Google Maps instead, and made good progress for a while.
One dodgy piece of routing by me took us down a gravel-scattered hairpin (just below waypoint 8 (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.7872262,-3.3637023,3a,75y,5.48h,74.66t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sKW6G9ZX3BsNHntdKEVd9QA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)), when there was a perfectly good alternative route.
Switched back to Garmin (I think), which took us off the the A465 Heads of the Valleys one roundabout too early. Not clear why - route is correct.
Back to Google Maps at some point, and this then lead us north at Llandovery instead of south. Again route is correct. nice road though!
Stopped at the Moutain Viewpoint (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.857186,-3.8450181,3a,75y,84.81h,71.72t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sOYGXvShqVqxh-WTrzHuWzQ!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DOYGXvShqVqxh-WTrzHuWzQ%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D274.21692%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656) on A4069 (between waypoints 18 & 19) instead of The Bridge pub because we had sandwiches and it was a glorious sunny day. No toilets though.
Mid-Wales:
Routing mistake at Llanwrda by me, which can be seen on MyRouteApp if you zoom right into waypoint 3. Can easily be fixed by moving the waypoint up slightly to avoid the tiny (and I do mean tiny (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.9671122,-3.8733119,3a,90y,324.67h,69.43t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s9Pw_w-xXoyUIVa6tXbCiEg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192)) one-way system in Llanwrda*. The 'keep left' sign is the one-way system!
The road from Dolgellau to Lake Vrynw is partly minor roads with gravel for about half that section (waypoints 18-19 (https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@52.7981267,-3.5932704,3a,75y,65.65h,74.61t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sg7jFWUf-87--YT6_ao9Yyg!2e0!7i13312!8i6656)). Still a pleasant road if you don't meet anything, and we didn't.
Two missed junctions due to the Garmin not updating quick enough again - one involving a grumpy Mini. ::)
To the sea:
Outwards to the sea was all minor roads, as expected. Some gravel but not that challenging.
Town centre had been turned into a one-way system because of Covid which caused us to have two goes at getting in. Same for coming out.
Returning was supposed to be mostly along the A482 (to Lampeter) which would have been medium-fast and curvy. However, we accidentally took to the minor roads on the way back which made it quite a tiring half-day. I'm pretty sure this was a Garmin device error, since I've re-check the route, and it's correct for both Garmin & Tom Tom.
In hindsight, I would change the return trip to go all the way along the A482 to Llandwrda, then up to Llandovery on A40, and home on the A483.
I'll be happy to correct the two routing errors.
Demonstration of how waypoint positioning is vital. This is the one-way sytem at Llanwrda.
Black = Tom Tom route
Blue = Garmin route
Waypoint 3 is just on the downwards part of the 'one-way' system, causing crazy but pedantically accurate routing, but only by Garmin, not Tom Tom.
(http://www.poqit.com/Llanwrda1.png)
Waypoint 3 moved up by 20m, and now OK on both devices:
(http://www.poqit.com/Llanwrda2.png)
You live and learn...
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Nice and very enjoyable photographs from all of you !
I don't know if I understood everything correctly, but as far as I understood, I'll want to know which parts of the route were "problematic" (or did I even understand "kind of off-road" ?). Because once these covid restrictions are out of this world (later in the year - or who knows only next year), I'll want to ride these routes. I might contact Richard for that later on...
How was (the lodging and) the food in the Neuadd arms hotel ?
My bed was nice and comfy in the Neuadd and food was good, even thinking of taking the wife there at some point, oh and the power shower really was, if you like to lather up then you would need to switch it off first
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Ah good post mortem Rich! Just looking at the map I can see what you mean! TomTom must ignore the side of the road and just take getting to 'the road' at the waypoint as success, whereas Garmin must be 'sided'.
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To answer some of the queries around the (my) Garmin problems.
All four routes downloaded and imported correctly (as far as I could tell without zooming into every waypoint with a microscope) into my Zumo 660 after I had made the stupid mistake of updating the mapping and firmware.
Unbeknown to me, the new mapping and firmware is now massively overloading the now 10 year old design of the 660. More of this anon...
Having got the routes into my Garmin, I went over each one to root out the silly mistakes such as taking us the microscopically faster way round a triangle only to tell me to 'Make a U-turn' as soon as I reached the waypoint. I found some beauties along the way and moved waypoints accordingly until I was satisfied that the route was 'sane'. I couldn't tell whether it was 'correct' because I didn't know where Richard 'intended' the route to go (and Richard has neither a TomTom nor a Garmin so couldn't do the sanity check. We had intended to meet up the week prior to the trip but Richard had a dicky tummy so couldn't sit up straight, let alone ride a bike...
Having got that far, I then added descriptions of waypoints for coffee, lunch and tea stops so I would know what each was. This is because Richard had done all the work of selecting the places, some of which in these Covid times, were no longer open/serving food etc.
I renamed the routes so that they appeared in order at the top of the list of Custom Routes so I wasn't scrabbling around in the inner workings of the menu searching for the correct route for Day 1, Run to the Sea etc. This is the point at which the first gremlin crept in. I managed to use the Run to the Sea route twice, once for the Monday and again for the Tuesday Brecons run. This explains why we sat outside the pub for an eternity on Tuesday morning while trying to figure out why the damn thing was telling me to turn right instead of left...and at this point we gave up and Martin became the lead for the day. So, stupid operator error and hardly the fault of the Garmin.
Now to the overloaded hardware. Garmin has always had some neat 'features', the most interesting being that it doesn't understand roundabouts. Or, more accurately, the daft American programmers (who don't have roundabouts) don't understand that a driver needs to know which lane to be in on the approach to a roundabout, rather than telling them when they get there. Another neat feature is that when the map needs to be redrawn because you have changed 'sectors', it always, always, always does it just after you arrive at the bottom of a motorway slip road and the screen goes blank for many, many, many seconds while the cars behind wonder why you are now stationary in front of them having just gone flying past.
However, its most endearing feature is that it can only calculate a route using waypoints by one of three methods; 'Fastest Time', 'Shortest Route' or 'Off Road'. The missing option is 'Most Bleeding Obvious Way'...
If I show almost anyone a list of waypoints and say what is the 'obvious' route through them all, almost everyone would get it right almost all of the time. Not a Garmin.
Of course, we need to remember that Garmin's roots are in the American walking, trekking, sailing and flying sectors where roads don't exist to confuse the poor thing.
Well, all of these features are now magnified by the outdated and slow hardware trying to handle the bloated firmware.
Whilst it was navigating me to the best of its ability on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, the screen was only showing the route ahead for about 15% of the time. Almost every time I glanced down to check a turning or see which way the road might bend in front of that bloody great truck in front of me (so I knew whether to off-side or near-side for the best view), the screen showed nothing more than my position marker (blue arrowhead) and the bit of road I had just ridden over. The way ahead was a total mystery. Hence the few boring and frustrating U-turns and wrong turns.
The enormous saving grace of the Garmin was that it consistently and unerringly warned me of speed camera locations aurally (via my shiny new electric ear plugs) even though most of the time I couldn't see the exact point on the map because the map wasn't there.
So, what is the solution? Well, I have yet to see how the device performs when it isn't navigating me on a 'route', just showing the road ahead and dealing with speed camera locations and pubs in The Good Beer Guide (the only Points of Interest I have loaded). Of course, having a TomTom as well as the Garmin, I could try to force my brain to learn how to use it but I find it all way too confusing for a bear of little brain to begin with. The Garmin way is ingrained by now and I doubt I will ever make the switch. Especially since it really only gets used in anger a handful of times a year.
The new version of the Zumo, the XT, is £430 rrp with lifetime full europe maps and has lots of nice features such as different mapping views at the touch of a virtual button, full off-road mapping and the ability to operate in landscape or portrait (just like a TomTom) etc. etc.
The cheapest I can find it in UK is £386 whereas it is only £330 in the EU (thanks guys). Of course, 15 years ago when I bought my first sat nag, a Garmin Streetpilot 2820, it cost me £660, had no internal battery, 8 bytes of memory and was the size and weight of half a house brick. I imagine Steve Parry is still getting great use out of it...
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And to cloud the matter further, it seems the elf that serves tea has got to the whole Garmin range.
Sheila has a new'ish model which drives me nuts warning her about upcoming speed limits (is she blind, can't she see the signs?), bends ahead (ditto), school zones (who cares?) etc. etc. and now it seems the bike specific units also have these bloody annoying audible and visual warnings built in.
Why don't they do a real navigator for those of us who can read the road ahead and don't spend all day texting or sexting while driving? So Garmin has just lost a sale...
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Ok here are a few photos that are hopefully mine.
(https://i.ibb.co/y6GYSPZ/20210614-121548.jpg)
Our first stop for a puncture, 20 miles in. Par for the course!
(https://i.ibb.co/xM5Mc20/20210614-165251.jpg)
Down at keep you hair on, Aberaeron.
(https://i.ibb.co/M2vRGBT/20210615-120443.jpg)
Just after Martin tried to make us all go home early :P.
(https://i.ibb.co/yQTyYwR/20210615-120455.jpg)
And as I slowed everything down by taking photos.
(https://i.ibb.co/f0hstDn/DCIM-100-MEDIA-DJI-0078-JPG.jpg)
The first of the drone photos, where I was alarming everyone! (mods present: if you remember where this was feel free to edit my post!)
(https://i.ibb.co/yS3X2SF/DCIM-100-MEDIA-DJI-0079-JPG.jpg)
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(https://i.ibb.co/52hfD5Q/DCIM-100-MEDIA-DJI-0081-JPG.jpg)
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(https://i.ibb.co/2d7GHBR/20210615-144731.jpg)
At a lake place, all lined up like cool dudes.
(https://i.ibb.co/k8w5292/20210615-173441.jpg)
In the local possibly the second evening. Nice pub.
(https://i.ibb.co/Hz9j3C3/20210616-131738.jpg)
Richard sat proudly on his new machine.
(https://i.ibb.co/JpMnKhX/20210617-094207.jpg)
The Elan valley I believe, where I said goodbye and went to play on a farm instead.
I had a lovely time as I always do when I get to ride with you lot. It was the first extended amount of time I've had on the bike riding it in anger, and I learned a lot. I especially appreciated stealing a free lesson by following Richard, and Martin's astute observations of my riding, both of which helped me enjoy the time much more! I was even able to use the BMW app to see how my lean angle (and probably apex speed if I enabled speed logging) increased over the week. Medium Data!
The nav-niggles were mostly amusing, although if I was on my K still I'd have probably needed mesh trousers for a couple of the hilly hairpins :P. As it was - and especially so for Monday - it set me up to be much more confident when I went off on Thursday to visit my friend, which involved somewhat similar 'roads' to get to his farm.
Having the B&B to ourselves was great, as was the village location. The only improvement I'd like would be for the roadworks to be finished next time :P. I think Wales is a great venue, not overly onerous for anyone to get there more than anyone else, and probably has many more roads to be explored! Jolly good job.
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Good photos, Matt! I somehow missed them first time around.
Here's a short 25s video (https://youtu.be/8o1q7jlPNDE) showing how ridiculously beautiful the Elan Valley is, if you've never been there:
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Very nice indeed ! I'm missing Ady and Rae standing there, so that must've been during the trip towards the B&B/hotel ?
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Close! Away from the B&B/hotel. This was a half-day trip on Thursday, so most people had to get back home, but I added optional half days on Mon & Thu just for fun.
At that point in video, we (Martin, Brian, myself) headed down the hill and round the lakes anticlockwise, but Matt had to turn back and head off up the hill, if I remember correctly.
I would have made it one of the full day trips by extending the route, but Brian - who has been several times before - said it only takes one coach to completely spoil the ride, because you can't overtake them. I think we only saw 3 or 4 cars en route until we got back to the busier cafe area. You can see one of the 3/4 just appear in the video. This was about 10:00am, well before most tourists arrive.
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That was such a nice ride out, and then my ride back was lovely too! Although - as I think Brian heard me cursing until I got out of range - my bike forgot my... something pairing, so I couldn't get audio nav. Horror of horrors!
Also the next day I went through the military roads south of Tirabad. Those were lovely. 40 limit but empty other than a couple of 7.5t transports.
Love the video Rich!
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That Military road is great Matt we did that the day before, no traffic on it and I think its listed as the south Wales race track. 8) ;D
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We may need to return. ;D
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May we may we!