A bright clear morning, and YHC was out and in amongst it .. straight into the Subi over to Gordon before anyone could snaffle my parking spot which is now around the corner from the launch. Chinz curtains ruffled as i set up the bike and gave the locals a glimpse of the second best way to start the day.
14C and dazzling sunshine make for a heady mix, and this was soon enhanced by the sight of 25 plus gathering on the OTP for a chatty roll into town. Let’s just say all the cracks had gathered for the fray, and no old regrets as it seems that wicked enthusiasm has triumphed. Our little band was only one of three, Flash was spotted, making his way towards a hobbits run, and of course the Fluffers were unleashed from Snives at 5:15..
The process of moving ERs along the OTP has now become almost as natural as breathing, there are pulses of riders, which form at about 50m intervals and then accumulate into a bunch at junctions and lights.. and from my vantage point today well to the front at the start of the ride and well to the rear at the end, I can attest to the general good behaviour and bon hommie all around. There was a car that transgressed the rules of common sense by overtaking at the crest of Lindfield avenue, you get that, and cameras will make these fools think harder if they are indentified and evidence is available.. but that is encouraging a them against us ethos which is counter to the ER mentality of doing the right thing, and trying to get on with everyone. I confess to wearing a camera, because it generates a good metre and a half clearance along New Line road..where the locals have yet to be convinced Cyclists are allowed.
The shredder was effective this morning, and the Tindale regroup was an effective coagulant, thus proceeding through the Artarmon park was a longish single file affair with style and aplomb.. to be completed by an assault course of walkers up the scaramanga..again ER colours showing manners to all concerned.
The coffee sprint was launched as usual from the top of Crows Nest, needless to say Schleck was already well into his coffee before YHC arrived, the motor on my bike running on diesel with speed limiter ..in definite need of a tune up..
Shambles, mayhem , and queues around the corner for coffee as the a multitude of lycra piled in, let’s hope they change into business wear before the Lunchie Yum Cha special this afternoon.
Return busses all ready and waiting for the off.. I will be on an early one.
Have a great day all
BT
( see I avoided all talk of the evil wheat )