Is This Friday?

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I’m not sure what “juice” Raymond was on but in his “call to arms” he posed the question “is next Friday tomorrow or is tomorrow this Friday?” Perhaps he’d been reading the latest from the books of Phil O’Sophy. 🤔 Colin was first to take the bait declaring that “if tomorrow is ‘next’ Friday then ‘this’ Friday doesn’t exist”.

Whatever you want to call it ‘this’ Friday saw a great turnout at Walkington pond for a sunny, windy hilly ride to Goodmanham. “I don’t want to hear any complaints about Middlehowe road” declared Raymond before we set off towards High Hunsley. Turning onto the much maligned road, the condition of the road surface was the least of our concerns as we headed directly into the wind. At some points it felt as if we’d just entered a wind tunnel so it was a relief to reach the junction at Whin Lane where we “bumped” into a “bevy of beauties” heading the opposite way. Not that I’m biased in any way…🫡🥰

There was then some respite as we headed downhill on Burgate to North Newbald but still with the wind whistling in our ears. On turning back onto Beverley road the silence was almost deafening and extremely welcome as we tackled the climb up Stoneknowle hill.

After regrouping we continued on to Gardham and Etton with the wind now giving a gentle “shove” on our backs. By the time we reached Etton it was felt we were running a little late to arrive at the cafe in time for our reservation so decided to change the route by proceeding via Kiplingcotes instead of Holme-on-the-Wolds. Either way it was going to be tough into a head wind.

On arrival at the Fiddle Drill we were joined by Colin and Jim who’d followed their own route. When we were all suitably refreshed the now fourteen strong “Order” of Knights set off to return home. Fortunately the wind was generally behind as we headed for Holme-on-the-Wolds.

“Ooh, this is a great chance to have a go at the club sprint” suggested Neil. “We’ll set off in 20s intervals so there is no drafting”. Neil led the way as we departed from the Kiplingcotes junction in dribs and drabs and with varying degrees of enthusiasm for the ‘challenge’ ahead. Well done Neil for setting the initial benchmark for the year. Game on….

Things calmed down after that as we had an easy run into Holme-on-the-Wolds before making our way home through South Dalton and Etton. Despite the wind it was a very pleasant day out in great company.

And The Winner Is….

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The “runners and riders” gathered at the start in Etton ready for Raymond’s extravaganza of hills and thrills. After our “host” outlined the days proceedings the “show” got underway.

The “opening act” of the day saw the Knights climbing up on the stage to Holme-on-the-Wolds with a gentle breeze and a watery sun at our backs. After gathering at the top, the “entertainment” continued with a gentle “rendition” leading the troupe to Middleton-on-the-Wolds. With the “warm up acts” completed we were ready for the next climb to North Dalton where the troupe split in two groups.

The larger group continued upwards to Huggate while a smaller breakaway headed for Bainton. While the breakaway battled into the wind the main group continued to gently climb. Heather set off as pace maker with everyone else happy to wallow in “the accolades” behind her until nearing the top when Matty decided to push on a bit quicker leaving the rest to decide if they should follow or not. On reaching the top, we stopped briefly to bask in the warm sun and reflect on our pleasant ride so far.

After the short “interval” we headed towards Tibthorpe and then realised our easy climb had been wind assisted. The next “act” was a bit like “dueling banjos” as Puggy and Matty vied for the “limelight” cutting their way through the wind at the front. “Well that was hard work” we all agreed. However our work was not yet done as we continued to Kirkburn.

There was some confusion as we reached the first “turn” to Southburn. Some carried on regardless to the next junction ignoring the advice that the road was closed. Some people just love to find a way through closed roads! 😂 Luckily on this occasion it was accessible for cyclists. There were some sighs of relief when we reached Hutton Cranswick and found some protection from the wind, then finally the moment we’d all been waiting for…. the winner of the Beverley Knights Cafe 2024 is…..Hutton Cranswick Farm Shop!

When it came time to return home Raymond asked which way we should go home. The wind direction became the deciding factor as we’d have the wind behind on the way to Bracken. Later when the “troupe” were approaching the pond on Mere Lane there was a shout from behind “Car Back!” After singling out Neil waved the vehicle through. However what we didn’t expect was a large truck pulling a trailer loaded with portaloos almost squeezing us off the road in the process. We had such a fright (at least I did) that those portaloos would have come in handy! Still, it did nothing to dampen the enjoyment of what was a wonderful day out and well attended.

A Tale of Two Rides

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“It was the best of rides, it was the worst of rides…” Which one were you on? I suppose it depends on whether you’re in for the “long haul” or a “Hedge Fun” manager. The “long haulers” met up at “a different time and a different place” with the intention of meeting up at the cafe. Meanwhile the “Hedge Funders” congregated at Tickton Grange to celebrate the return of Ray (“Dalio”) from his “winter training camp” 🕶🍹🍻⛱️.

Ten Knights “invested” in the “shorting” following the usual route out to Leven and Brandesburton before taking the “standard deviation” via Dunnington to Skipsea Brough. After continuing through Beeford the “investors” found themselves with some “directional exposure” as there was a certain amount of “liquidity” reported on the road to Foston-on-the-Wolds. Shortly after clearing the mud strewn section, Neil suffered a “run on his fund” causing his tyre to deflate.

Repairs complete, the “investors” continued through Wansford and Skerne before pitching up at Hutton Cranswick Farm Shop. While the group were enjoying the “fruits of their investments” the five “long haulers” turned up dripping in sweat and looking exhausted having completed a hilly 40 miles. “Where have you been then?” enquired someone cheekily.

When it was time for the “investors” to leave, we left the “long haulers” to finish refuelling. While returning along Burnbutts Lane we encountered a ROAD CLOSED sign. “Now where do we go?” As we discussed options, Heather set off to see if there was a way through. Full of enthusiasm, she returned with the news that yes there was a way past the road block but “we’d have to go around the farm house“. Merrily we followed along behind her, however as we approached the road block expecting to find a farmyard or similar it was with dogged determination that Heather “ploughed” on through the farmer’s field while the rest followed like 🐑 🐏 🐑. As if that wasn’t bad enough we were suddenly confronted by a prickly hedge blocking the way.

Now we know what it is like to be be dragged through a hedge! “Who’s idea was this anyway?” was the general consensus not looking at anyone in particular. I’m not sure this sort of off-roading was included in the risk assessment. (At least the “long haulers” saw sense and took the alternative route.) Once safely back on the road we carried on with the ride returning home on our usual route via Bracken, South Dalton and Etton. The temperature had become quite pleasant with the sun making a bid for freedom through the clouds creating perfect cycling conditions and despite the “hedging”, the ride was most enjoyable and gave us all something to remember.

Mr Blue Sky

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🎶 Hey there Mr Blue! We’re so pleased to be with you… Everybody smiles at you 🎶 After weeks with the “curtains shut” the sun finally came out to play. Unfortunately it’s taken a little longer for the temperature to play along. As we gathered in the bus shelter by Walkington pond the heat generated by the early morning sun made it feel more like the Mediterranean. Six Knights set off on Matt’s proposed route to Gilberdyke facing a head wind all the way.

The initial leg took us over some undulating terrain to Little Weighton before continuing along Rowley road to Riplingham. After a final climb on Lambwell hill it was time for a long downhill on Elloughton Dale. After regrouping at the bottom there was a pause while the chatter flowed like a bunch of sailors swapping sea stories. In fact if we’d hung around much longer we be in danger of a parking ticket.

Leaving Elloughton behind, the pace picked up as the group headed along the flatter roads on the way to Ellerker and Broomfleet where we negotiated the potholes like someone picking their favourite sweets from a jar while dodging the rest. The “pick’n’mix” continued after leaving the Brickyard where we continued to work our way through more of the “sticky toffees” and “crunchy bits” on the way to Faxfleet. Eventually there was nothing left except the “smooth centres” leading us to Blacktoft…….and that’s where it all went wrong.

With Puggy on the front, he turned off following a sign clearly stating Gilberdyke this way only to be later “hauled before the judge” accused of stealing part off the route. “Sorry m’lud were we supposed to go via Yokefleet?” he enquired sheepishly. “I can only plead guilty but in my defence m’lud you did say we’d be in the cafe at 1145 and I believe we arrived bang on time”. As judge Matty donned his “Blacktoft” to pronounce sentence he announced “Your punishment will be deferred to later on the ride”

At the Gilberdyke Garden centre we were met by Geoff updating us on his recovery progress while we tucked into our various food choices. When it was time to return home we were pleased to have the wind behind us. It was like someone had added “battery assist” as we easily cruised along through Newport at 20mph and onwards to North Cave. After breezing through Hotham we arrived at South Newbald.

“Right it’s time for your punishment” declared the judge as he produced a rope binding us all together. “It’s Trundlegate for you” he ordered. As we climbed “the gallows steps” the strain of “the rope” began to bite deep before “the threads” started to unravel. Sean was first on the way with Puggy desperately trying to “hang” on behind only to “drop off” as the climb hit the steep section. Colin showed some resilience as he “danced” his way upwards trying to avoid “the drop” as he set off in pursuit of Sean. On reaching the end of Whin Lane we stopped to recover and regroup while reflecting on our individual sense of achievement.

The final leg of our journey was an easy downhill with the wind behind back to the start point at Walkington. It was a pleasure to finally be out on a ride and not feel cold. Long may it last.

Desperately Seeking Sunshine

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You remember that big orange ball that appears in the sky 🌞 bringing warmth and happiness. Yes?… well you could be forgiven if not, as in our little neck of the woods, we’ve been shrouded for days…even weeks with a dull grey blanket of cloud. Some Knights even headed off abroad in the search for the “golden snitch” while the rest of us continue to shiver at home praying for some respite from the freezing damp conditions. With the “heating” turned off, the temperatures have stubbornly refused to rise much above freezing curtailing the attendance at our regular club rides.

There has been a number of intrepid Knights who have ventured out over the last couple of weeks but most of us have been in hibernation, like brown bears 🐻 waiting for the spring, avoiding any chance of “dicing on ice”, preferring to find solace and self-flagellation on a turbo-trainer in our “pain cave”. Today however our prayers were answered and the temperature soared to a balmy 15⁰c. Unfortunately “someone” must have thought it was a bit too hot and turned the fan on full blast. The wind turbines have been spinning round like whirling dervishes creating enough energy to power a rocket 🚀.

“The wind is just about on my max threshold” declared Michael 💪 “but I’m willing to give it a go” hoping to encourage others along. I suppose you do need someone to hide behind when the going gets tough. Not to be outdone, Colin decided to join in the “fun” (can’t have others racking up the miles without him). “Have you any last wishes Colin?” enquired Jim with tongue firmly in cheek. Perhaps he wanted Colin to gift him his bike in the event of the wind scooping him across the Styx. With the forecast giving wind speeds of 24mph gusting to 40mph there were no other “takers”.

Undeterred by all the doom laden warnings ⚠️ 🌬 the two set out from Market Cross straight into the teeth of the wind as they made their way south to Elloughton. They had some respite and assistance over the next leg when they headed westerly through North Cave to North Cliffe before turning towards Bielby. Instead of continuing to Allerthorpe they had a change of plan and turned to Hayton, Burnby then Londesborough before stopping off at the Fiddle Drill in Goodmanham.

After spending 3½ hours in the saddle they managed to cover around 50 miles although not without incident. Turns out Michael is determined to retain his 👑 as the Puncture King by suffering yet another flat. He did manage to impress Colin with his prowess in changing the inner tube. To be fair, he’s had plenty practice!! 😂 What was most impressive though, was the way Michael removed the thorn by sinking his teeth into the tyre like a man relishing a juicy steak 🥩 before spitting out the gristle. What’s more, he managed to put the tyre back on without levers (the power of the thumb 👍). All that time on YouTube has not been wasted then!

Hopefully I’ll see you all out on the road soon.

A Beast from the East

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Seven Knights turned out for Raymond’s Friday ride. “Weather’s looking good for a ride” he stated confidently in an effort to rouse up some company. When the morning dawned, we were greeted with a dull grey blanket covering the sky and a breeze from the east. After meeting up in Etton we set off towards Holme-on-the-Wolds. As we continued west with the wind on our backs we noted a number of farm vehicles along the road. The peaceful start to the journey was then suddenly interrupted with a series of very loud gun shots, BANG BANG BANG. Made us almost jump out of our skin. Glad I’m not a rabbit or hare or whatever they were shooting at or perhaps they were testing a bird scarer.

Shortly after, we noted the wind beginning to pick up indicated by a solitary windmill in the distance whirling away like a turbo-prop ready for take off. Meanwhile we were confronted by a large lorry filling the road space forcing us to pull over into a nearby passing place and an opportunity for Ray to check his bike.

The next leg from Middleton-on-the-Wolds to North Dalton is a rollercoaster road and was not made any easier with the wind coming from the side.

At North Dalton no-one fancied the longer route via Huggate so we turned towards Bainton. Then, it was like someone had opened a fridge door and ramped the fan up to full blast, so it was with some relief when we turned off the main road into Bainton and found some shelter, albeit briefly, among the housing. Leaving Bainton we had a mad dash to Hutton Cranswick where we stopped for refreshments at the Farm Shop.

Around the table the banter flew and none more so than when there was a misunderstanding regarding Led Zeppelin and a hydrogen balloon leaving a smile on our faces as we headed back into the cold. Unusually on this occasion for the first part of the return trip over Burnbutts Lane we had the wind behind. Just as we were heading along Bracken Lane the sun put in a brief appearance, peeking out from the grey clouds like a nosy neighbour through the curtains. The rest of the ride became a matter of survival as we returned home having covered around 40 miles with only the warmth of the company to help us along.

You Bean Toasted

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It’s been a while since we managed to get out for a decent Sunday club ride. In the absence of our ‘glorious leader’, Michael stepped up to the ‘plate’ to suggest a ride to the Ramblers Rest at Millington. Five Knights turned out at Etton for a lumpy outing. Given that some of us had not many miles in the saddle so far this year it was an ambitious ‘warm up’.

Our route took us first to Holme-on-the-Wolds then to Middleton. At this point we turned onto the climb along Warter road. We were soon reminded why we don’t use this road very often as the surface was more akin to a ploughed field at times. Eventually we reached the B1246 road. Our joy of the downhill cruise was soon over after passing through Warter where the road began to rise steadily towards Baggaby hill, a climb of around 1.6km (a mile for old schoolers) at an average of 5% and touching 15-16% briefly. To top that off, we turned towards Huggate and continued another climb of 0.8km averaging 7% reaching a max 12%. Kudos to Colin for posting the best time on the day.

Once ‘over the top’, we turned down into Millington Dale. Any thoughts of trying the ‘freewheel challenge’ were soon dismissed as we faced what felt like a howling gale along along the valley with James and Sean taking the brunt of it while the rest of us tucked in behind. Cheers lads. After a final little climb near Millington woods we arrived at Ramblers Rest ready for refuelling.

I’m not sure what inspired our choice of sustenance but there was definitely a ‘whiff’ of Blazing Saddles about it. Perhaps we were hoping for a turbocharged ‘blaaaaaast’ up the hills on the way home. We certainly could’ve done with some assistance as we hit Nunburnholme hill for the first time this year. Whose idea was that anyway? On this occasion Sean showed everyone a clean pair of heels, reaching the top over a minute ahead of the pack.

Following a brief respite we set off again towards Londesborough and another climb up Intake Hill leading to Market Weighton. Thereafter we followed the more gentle inclines of the Kiplingcotes valley back to Etton. I don’t know about the others, but I felt ‘toasted’ and had to gently ‘spin the legs’ for the final few miles home to stave off twinges of cramp. Still, it was a rather enjoyable ride including some ‘new’ routes.

The Big Freeze

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…. it’s almost over! Yee hah! Come on! Mount up! Get out there once again. Time to start burning off all the extra baggage acquired over the festive period. So it was with enthusiasm I headed into the garage to check over the winter bike. Brakes ✔️, Lights ✔️, Mudguards ✔️, Garmin ✔️, Water ✔️, Tyres… maybe just a little top up required. Mmm, something wrong with the valve on the rear tyre. 🤔 Never mind the pressure is still holding 💭 so off I set. I’d only gone about about 100 yards when I began to feel “something was wrong”. Sure enough, the rear tyre had gone flat.

Returning home, I sent a message to let everyone know I’d be a little late arriving then set about replacing the affected inner tube. Shortly after, I was ready to set off again. Twenty minutes to get to Etton for the 10am start. I’ll give it my best shot but the God’s of fortune were not with me. First obstacle was a line of traffic blocking the way to Lairgate, so decided to take a different way round only to be confronted with red traffic lights at every stop. Eventually out of town heading towards Cherry Burton ☎️ bzzzz. It was Neil “Are you nearly there yet?”. Shortly after setting off again, all traffic was being held up while a tree at the roadside was being felled then… finally a clear run to Etton. Thanks for waiting everyone.

The day was damp with some icy patches reported but we still had a good turn out at the start for a short trip to Hutton Cranswick Farm Shop. Heading initially to South Dalton we turned passing the “duck pond” to make our way over to Bracken Lane. It was great to “catch up” with everyone again and how they all coped with the “Big Freeze” and the festive period.

After our cafe stop we found that the puncture fairy had paid a visit to Russ who promptly upended his bike to effect a repair. Getting the tyre off proved the most difficult task but with everyone chipping in with assistance Russ was ready to roll. By this time the main group had been whittled down to five and we set off on the back roads via Top Hill Low to Watton. Probably not the best choice of road with numerous potholes and mud everywhere but at least the sun tried to peak through for the final leg of our journey via Lockington back home.

Tis The Season….

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…. to be “superstitious” ? Well it is Friday the 13th after all. WHAT! You’re not superstitious? Perhaps you should ask Neil about it. While the rest of us “rolled” up to the start at Walkington Pond, Neil arrived more with a bumpity bumpity feeling. “Something wrong with my tyre” he declared before upending his bike to check it out. Two gas canisters later there was no improvement in the twisted tyre so he decided to abandon and head home. “I’ll try and catch you up later” he said hopefully as the group set off to follow his designated route.

First up, we headed up Northgate ramp turning left to reach Middlehowe road and the gentle climb to the memorial wood. “Is it straight on here, then right to Newbald down Burgate?” asked Colin. As we were debating and checking the instructions, Heather said “I thought it was right”. After rereading the route instructions to confirm, we set off along Wold road to pick up Walkington Heads.

As we rolled towards North Newbald, we came to a wet muddy section on the road. Suddenly Pugwash found himself splattered with mud from GEOFF’s rear wheel and his inadequate mudguard. By the time he’d dropped back out of the way his frontage resembled the breast of a song thrush.

The ride continued to South Newbald then on to Hotham and North Cave. On reaching the junction of the main road, we split into two groups for the run along the busy B1230 regrouping again just before Newport. The final leg to Gilberdyke Garden Centre cafe took no time at all, in fact, we were so early we began to wonder if the cafe was open yet as the staff still seemed to be busy “setting up”.

After the cafe break there was dissension in the ranks. “I don’t like that Brickworks road and suggest we go back the way we came” said one rider at which point there were many nods of agreement while others wanted to keep to the original planned route. Just as it looked like we were going to split into two groups a compromise suggestion was made by GEOFF to start back the way we came, but then turn off at Wallingfen Lane to get to Ellerker. At the end of the lane we were faced with a choice, left to Ellerker or right to Broomfleet then Ellerker. Eventually we headed to Broomfleet to resume the original route. Well that was a mistake as we got stopped waiting for a train not just at the Broomfleet crossing but also the Cave crossing. “That’s why I suggested going left to Ellerker” said GEOFF helpfully.

After Ellerker we took the Brantingham road into Elloughton. It was then that our “work” really began as we headed up the High road towards Welton. If that wasn’t enough to warm you up we then continued to climb up towards Riplingham. It was at this point the ride began to split up with three following the original route via Eppleworth, Skidby and Little Weighton, while the rest took a more direct route home.