The weather forecast for today's ride must have put some cyclists off venturing out today but the threat of severe winds and cold did not materialise for our ride.
On arrival at Rose Farm there were already 10 riders braving the wind. As the moderates had considered one ride I proposed a ride out to Plumley and the Smokers Inn.
Clive, John and Ivan set out with the wind behind us. Turning left and left after leaving the cafe I was following route along Utkington Lane. We were flying without any hard pedalling. Cycle route 71 turns right at the main A49 with a right hand join which goes along a real Clive track. We decided to reverse and go via Oulton Mill and Whitegate. Our revised route went via Little Budworth and Whitegate Road to pass Winsford. Following my Garmin it does read tracks as a road when researching a proposed route and we end up facing a proper boggy lane/track so Clive thankfully diverted us again round this style and onto the Whitegate Way which surface was very hard and clean.
Off we came at the end by the rock salt plant and crossed over the Weaver and under the two bridges. There followed a nice ride passing Moulton and Davenham and on to Lach Dennis. The wind was behind us all of the ride and good time was being made. After taking the usual route through Davenham and over the river bridges we turned left heading towards Plumley.
We arrive at the Smoker Inn at midday day but we're not the first patrons to arrive. We were soon enjoying an early lunch and thoughts now we're the facing wind for the 24 miles ride home.
After a good lunch and liquid refreshment we set off crossing the busy A556 and riding along the footpath before turning into Linnards Lane to Wincham. This road takes us into Northwich and we navigate our way through, reading the Garmin screen in bright sunshine on busy roads is not easy!!
However we get through without a wrong turning and we are up hill along Winnington Lane. We continue along facing a wind but nothing that we haven't faced before and we're still averaging 14/15 mph through Weaverham and Acton Bridge.
After passing the railway station John starts to have chain drop and over the next 10 miles he stops to put his chain on at least six occasions.
We pass over Norley and sprint along through Delamere ups and down and finally for those bound for Chester along Manley Lane and back to Mickle Trafford and home.
A good days riding cut short due to reported weather that really didn't live up to the write up but our ride did.
John got back in good time to Halfords and the Boardman is again all systems go.
ID
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