February ride this coming Saturday

We've got our February ride coming up on Saturday (8th). Our leader will be Steve (Hancock), who will be making his debut as a 20-Milers ride leader.

Steve has  come up with an interesting and somewhat unusual route, taking in bike paths and quiet roads in the east and north of the city. The route will include a couple of spots that I think will be new to many of us - more about that on the day.

I don't foresee any difficulties with the route. There will be gentle gradients for most of the time, with only one fairly steep climb. And for the most part we will be on reasonably firm surfaces apart from one short stretch that might be muddy. The total distance will be just under the nominal twenty miles.

Lunch stop

Our lunch stop will be at the Ocean Terminal in Leith. As you probably know, this offers a choice of cafes and sandwich shops, as well as a terrace for those of us who prefer to bring a packed lunch (but watch out for the seagulls).

Time and place

As always, we'll gather at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk in time for a 10:30 departure. We'll aim to get back to the Meadows around the middle of the afternoon. The ride is of course free and open to all, and there is no need to let anyone know in advance whether or not you plan to attend.

A reminder

I'll take this opportunity to remind you to bring a spare inner tube with you if at all possible. That way, we'll be able to get you quickly up and running if you are hit by a puncture. And if your bike does not have quick-release wheels, please also bring whatever tools would be needed to remove the wheel. If you're not sure what size of tube or what type of tools you need, your favourite bike shop will be able to advise.

I hope to see you on Saturday. If you can't make it this time, next month's ride will be on 8th March.