August rides

Mike will be leading this Saturday's ride (11th August, 10.30am) on bike paths, forest trails, suburban streets and parkland on the southern edges of the city - some pleasant countryside with fine views. The total distance will only be abut 17 miles, but that doesn't mean you'll be left off lightly. There will be a number of steep-ish hills and a few rough tracks, and we'll also have several short stretches on main roa

ds. Fortunately, we'll get most of the climbing over with early, and have some nice long freewheels on the way home.

The lunch stop will be at the Mortonhall Garden Centre, where there's a spacious cafeteria. Those who prefer a pub lunch can opt for the nearby Stables Bar, which is also a good choice for those of us who like to bring our own food (plenty of seating in the courtyard).

 

20-Milers Extra (19th August)

Our second August ride will be somewhat longer and faster than our usual outings. These Extra rides are aimed at those who have no difficulties keeping up with our normal 20-mile runs, and now want something just a little more demanding. We start half an hour earlier than usual, finish a little later, and take slightly shorter breaks. But we still pedal at a sociable speed, and still wait for stragglers.

 

Jenny Meek will be leading this month's Extra. She's worked out an excellent 33-mile route through the West Lothian countryside, with an especially nice lunch stop. I'll send you more information nearer the time, but for now, you might like to note the date (which is a Sunday, not our usual Saturday), the non-standard starting point (the Water of Leith Visitor Centre in Slateford Road), and the fact that the ride starts at 10.00

 

Remember, all our rides are completely free. You're welcome to bring your friends, and you don't need to let us know whether or not you plan to come along - just turn up on the day.