Saved the fast 'til last

For today's final Extra ride of the year we headed across the Forth to Dunfermline in Fife. There was nothing to suggest it would be when we set off, but it turned out to be [probably] the fastest Extra ride ever, and definitely the earliest finish for one. The weather forecast suggested we might see some rain before the ride was over; but it stayed off long enough for us to finish the ride and allow everyone to get home before it arrived. Although we didn't see the sun, it was one of those early autumn days that was warmer than it first appeared, but cooler when the wind blew - the type of day that makes it difficult to dress appropriately for.

Perhaps the forecast put off some riders, and there were a few regulars missing, but a turn out of just 10 riders was lower than expected for the final Extra ride of the year. Today's leader, Alan wasn't overly bothered. He knew that it is always easier to lead a small group, rather than a large one. He even opted to forego a back marker. We left Craigleith on the Blackhall Path and made our way to Cramond Brig via Silverknowes and Barnton. Following a brief pause, we were on our way again and it was beginning to look as if this may develop into a faster paced ride than usual. Going via the path beside the A90 and Dalmeny, we were soon skirting South Queensferry and having a comfort stop at the Forth Bridge visitor centre. Although it was somewhat dull and overcast, there was little wind as we crossed the Forth Road Bridge. Crossing the road, we made our way via cycle paths to Hilton Road and into Rosyth. A recently discovered route past the new Rosyth/SW Fife High School is a great shortcut that avoids a busy stretch of road. We were soon on Brankholm Brae. Whilst it is not the main road into Dunfermline, it was very busy, narrow and undulating. Turning off it onto Grange Road gave little respite from the heavy traffic. That section of the route was not nice at all. It was a relief to reach Pittencrieff Park in Dunfermline, and stop for a picnic lunch in the lovely sensory garden.

Alan had allowed us 30 minutes for lunch, which was sufficient time. We left the park and retraced our outward route back to Rosyth. This time, Grange Road and Brankholm Brae were even worse with heavy traffic. It was a relief to take the quiet paths and weave around the yet-to-be-completed school. We left Rosyth and made our way back towards the Forth Road Bridge. Thanks to a suggestion from Howard, we were able to avoid the narrow and quite busy Ferry Toll Road. Instead, we meandered along cycle paths through some woods and alongside deserted roads to get to the bridge. We had to contend with a strong headwind as we crossed the bridge, meaning the comfort stop once across, was most welcome. From there it was a simple matter of retracing our outward route from the morning back to Craigleith, where we arrived at 2.30 pm. To finish a 20 Milers ride by that time is quite an achievement, but to finish an Extra is unheard of.

Everyone seemed to have enjoyed this year's final Extra, and we were all relieved the rain had stayed off. Thanks to Alan for leading. Probably shouldn't say this, but thanks to Glenn for opting to take on the role of back marker, albeit in an unofficial capacity.

Leader: Alan

Report: Glenn

Photos: Glenn

Last of this summer's Extras this coming Saturday

We are planning to squeeze in one more of our Extra rides this summer. This will take place this coming Saturday (27th). Under Alan's leadership, we will be heading over the Forth Road Bridge and into Fife, with a lunch stop in Dunfermline. The route will be on a variety of roads and paths, including a couple of stretches on main roads that might be busy with traffic. There will be some long-ish climbs in the morning but no real killers (and some nice free-wheeling in the afternoon). The total distance will be 32 - 35 miles.

Please remember that these Extras go at a faster pace than our normal rides, with fewer stops. They are suitable for those of our riders who find our usual runs well within their capabilities. Those who are less fit or who haven't cycled for a while will probably prefer to skip this one.

Lunch arrangements

Our lunch stop will be in Pittencrieff Park in the centre of Dunfermline. This is an ideal spot for a picnic, so I suggest you bring a packed lunch. Alternatively, there is a cafe in the park, serving a soup of day and a good range of snacks and hot and cold drinks.

Meeting time and place

For this ride, we'll assemble at the Craigleith path junction (see here if you need directions). Please aim to get there in time for a prompt 10:30 departure.

Looking ahead, our next ride will take place on 11 October. As usual, I'll post full details nearer the time.

Dalkeith Delights

Our destination for today's run was Dalkeith. That's somewhere the group often ride to – we visited it as recently as last April. But this time, under Alison's leadership, we managed to add a little variety to the route with a couple of interesting variations.

Nineteen riders turned up, including three newcomers – all very welcome. The first eight or nine miles were on familiar territory: the Innocent Path, Bruntstane, Newcraighall and Musselburgh Station, then on the new-ish bike path to Monktonhall and then onto the River Esk walkway. We paused for the customary breather at the top of the stiff climb up to Cowpits, then on through Whitecraig and the bike path past the Dalkeith school campus and along Salters Road.

Normally we would head straight into Dalkeith town centre from this point. But this time we turned off the road just before the bridge over the South Esk, taking a pleasant path through Waterfall Park. After crossing the Maiden Bridge, we continued through the woods next to Newbattle golf course. This is really a delightful spot. We normally approach it on the return leg from Dalkeith. Seeing it from the opposite direction made a welcome change.

The final leg of the morning took us across the busy Abbey Road and so into King's Park for our lunch stop. A few of the group headed to the nearby supermarket cafe, while most settled for a picnic lunch in the park.

Up to now the day had been dry, sunny and reasonably warm. But as we saddled up for the return leg, clouds started to appear and a few drops of rain were felt. This continued as we cycled through Dalkeith town centre. By time we reached the entrance to Dalkeith Country Park, the rain was much more in evidence, so we paused in the Restoration Yard to give those who hadn't already done so a chance to put on their waterproofs.

Re-opened gate

When cycling through Dalkeith Country Park, we normally head for the gate in the north east corner by Smeaton Farm. This takes us onto a busy stretch of road towards Whitecraig. This time, we were able to avoid the traffic by turning left just before the gate, taking a winding route through pleasant farmland to another gate, at Old Craighall. Older members of the group will remember that this used to be our normal route out of the park, but that gate was closed in 2013 and remained closed until a few weeks ago. It was good to be able to go that way again, if only for the sake of variety.

From Old Craighall, we took a shortcut through a new housing development and were soon on the path leading back to Musselburgh Station. By now the rain had eased off and blue skies were again in evidence. For the rest of the ride, we retraced our outward route back to the Meadows.

Despite the rain, it turned out be a very pleasant run, made more interesting by the variations to the normal route. Thanks to Alison for planning the route (helped by Alan) and for stepping in at short notice to lead the ride (not for the first time this year).

Leader: Alison

Report and photos: Mike 

Rride to Dalkeith this coming Saturday

We've got our September ride coming up on Saturday (13th). Glenn will be leading us to Dalkeith - somewhere we have visited many times over the years. But this time, just to keep us on our toes, Glenn has managed to incorporate some interesting variations to the route - including one particular bit which I think will be new to most of us.

The total distance will be 22 - 24 miles, with no particular difficulties. We will mainly follow well-surfaced paths and quiet roads, apart from a couple of short stretches that might be a little rough and possibly muddy. There will be no overly busy roads and no killer hills.

For our lunch stop, we'll head to the King's Park in the centre of Dalkeith. This is a pleasant spot for picnicking, with plenty of seating. For those who prefer to eat indoors, there is a cafe in the Morrisons supermarket across the street (and also toilets). The cafe serves a range of snacks and light meals, or you can pick up a sandwich and take-away drink to bring to the park.

As always, we'll set out from our meeting point at the north end of Middle Meadow Walk at 10:30. And, as always, you don't need to reply to this email or to let anyone know whether or not you plan to join us.

Looking ahead

We are planning to squeeze in another Extra this month. This will be on 27 September. I'll post the usual details as soon as they are known.