--
Ride report - rather than spoil the flow of Pete's news round-up we'll sneak Chris's write-up in here:
A cold and drizzly morning meant that only 4 Condors gathered at Keighley this morning. Ian, Myself and double trouble from both of the Hartley twins. The Washburn Valley had been mentioned so we headed East for a change.
The first portion of the ride was a little urbanized through
Bingley and onto Shipley, climbed to Guiseley before dropping to
Otley.
From here I was on unfamiliar territory but guided by my
comrades I followed intrepidly. Ian had developed a grumbling mechanical, with
his rear wheel bearings (perhaps due to the previous weeks washing out of
grease they had). A brief stop and we were again on our way, rolling past
Almscliffe Crag and on toward Harrogate.
Our cafe stop was in the charming village of Hampsthwaite, a
picture postcard type of place next to the River Nidd. Full of character and
quintessential Englishness.
Refueled and raring to go Nigel and Melvin set pace
back towards Ilkley. We passed through more idyllic places with names such as
Kettlesing, Timble and Askwith. Views of the Washburn Valley were hung in low
mist making for a spectral scene.
It was great to see Melvin after what seems like too long,
and I'm glad/sad to report that he is going very well after a short rest. We
chose the most direct route home via the formidable Keighley Gate.
Parts had
been washed away with the recent downpours but we made good progress and
regrouped at the top. The weather had turned gradually grimmer with persistent
drizzle adding to the onset of cold. From here we parted company with Mel and
even refrained from Public Houses! Save that for Riley's Treat. Not bad for a
dank December day!
Chris
This Weeks Best Buy
Both Myself and Mel have replaced our chains this week, both
choosing from the KMC range. Seem to run nice and smooth so far. Watch this
space to how long they last etc.
Features
X-SP treatment: This treatment of pins
and plates reduces wear susceptibility caused by the ingress of sand or other
debris into the chain bearings. Hugely enhancing durability. Pins and plates,
made out of special high quality alloy are less prone to stretching
X-Bridge: This is on the outer
plate, configured with precisely articulated angles for quicker and smoother
gear shifting and quieter riding. Lightweight shorter length pins length combine
with high-grade materials to reduce weight. Tensile strength safety is assured
with a minimum 1020kgf above ISO standards
Specification
Titanium Nitride Coating
Hi-Performance
Double X-Durability
Open Inner plate; less chainsuck
