Sunday morning rideout February 19th

There was a sprinkling of snow at a slightly chilly Long Itch Diner on Sunday morning which for those of us who had come from more temperate climes was something of a surprise but it did not deter the eight bikers (and a pillion) who had turned out for Paul’s Banbury/Towcester circuit. Once out of the Southam area, the frost disappeared and apart from the sun occasionally dazzling as it bounced off the wet tarmac, it was a cracking day.

Now, we’ve had a lot of stuff from MAG recently about proposed legislation from Brussells and after this morning I would quite happily add a couple of amendments. Firstly, that all Sunday morning cycling groups should be confined to the static bikes in their local gym or the velodrome. Secondly, that farm machinery should only be allowed on the highway in times of severe drought thereby preventing them from using the road as a doormat on which to wipe their muddy tyres. And while I’m about it, I’d also restrict horses to fields and bridleways. Roads should be for motorbikes, cars and lorries and I’m not altogether convinced about the cars and lorries. Not that I want to stop other people using the roads, far from it, I just don’t want them there while I’m using them.

A quick coffee in Banbury and it was off on a very rural route around Northamptonshire. I'd almost forgotten about the temperature until we dropped down into Maidford and I noticed a wall thick with frost and realised we’d ventured into the notorious South Warwickshire frost hollow once again. One unscheduled stop where the gentlemen (and lady) amongst us averted their eyes and we finished off with a brilliant view across the Avon Vale from Priors Marston, finally dismounting at the Long Itch just before 12:30. A great way to spend a Sunday morning. 

Whilst I am moaning about a bit of mud on the road there are those who actively seek extreme thrills. Many of you have probably seen this because it dates from 2008 but it's new to me  http://youtu.be/9CswyyZpki0