With the clocks changing and the weather on Monday looking ok we will be starting up the first “Monday Mash” chain gang of the year on Monday! Meeting point for this week’s ride is at The Crown Inn in Marnhull at 6pm, we will depart at 6:05 sharp so make sure you are there! If you drive to the start please don’t park in the pub, there is on street parking nearby. Please bring lights (flashers at least) as you may need these for your ride home.
For week 1 the target speed will be 20-21mph – I know some are capable of more but please respect this target and ride accordingly as we want to encourage others to take part. Most riders who can sustain circa 18mph on their own over the course should have no problem with this pace when riding together as a team on good roads. Speeds will gradually increase in future weeks and groups can be split if necessary.
The route for this week will be 30 miles on good fast roads with some rolling hills but nothing too testing. Route below:
These are fast paced rides and you will be expected to maintain a solid level of effort and ride at speed in close proximity to other riders – working as a team. The format will be explained on the night and instruction given – please do not surge off the front or sprint up hills!!! Come through smoothly to the front and maintain the effort and pace set by the group. We will put slightly more pressure on the pedals up hills to maintain speed but please keep this moderate and make sure you are taking the group with you. Try to stay seated on the climbs if you can to avoid kicking your bike back into others who will be close behind. The ride should be a constant steady effort with no big spikes in power needed at any time. Please close any gaps in the line immediately, stay in the draft of the rider in front at all times and communicate with other riders.
Unlike the normal club rides these are not “no-drop” rides, but the aim is still not to drop people if possible. If you are struggling to maintain the pace please make it known to the group before you drop off so that they know not to hold back for you.
We have a WhatsApp group for those interested in attending to discuss availability etc, if you wish to join it please comment on the Facebook post or contact Edd Hunt.
