Hi

Welcome to my new blog. In this blog I will be writing down some of the odd, random thoughts that go through my head as I cycle to work each morning - a journey of around 8 miles, up and down hills, along narrow yet amazingly busy roads.

To start off with, I will set out my theory about the weather and cycling.

Wind: If there is a noticable wind it will be coming from within 45 degrees of the direction of travel. Even if I only cycle a couple of miles to the shops, by the time I start the return journey the wind will have changed enough to be blowing in my face again! Failing this, winds will come in strong, unexpected gusts from directly to one side or the other, threatening to blow me either into the path of an oncoming bus or 4 wheel drive, or into a ditch or hedgerow.

Rain: It is never raining when I set off on a journey - NEVER! However, if there is any rain to be had, it will arrive in huge amounts when I am on the most exposed stretch of road for miles around. Sometimes it only rains where I am. I once rode along a cycle track with a narrow strip of cloud directly overhead and got soaked. When I rejoined the main road it was totally dry.

Temperature: The relationship between temperature and the clothes being worn by the cyclist is simple and absolute. Regardless of the temperature when I set out, it will rise or fall to cause the maximum discomfort. If I set off in water proofs and fleece jumper the temperature will soar until I am riding along in my own personal, mobile sauna. If I am daring and set off less well covered the temperature will plummet so that I am in danger of dying of hypothermia before I reach my destination. The only exception to this is at the height of the very short English summer, when I can go out in shirt and shorts and only risk sunburn and skin cancer.

Having said all that, I love cycling and dread the day I am not fit enough to make the journey and have to resort to something more conventional, safe and comfortable!