No chance to really get out on the bike this weekend, it came back from the workshop yesterday and it’s just too cold out there; with this bitter wind it’s basically dangerous. I see they cancelled the 66th edition of Kuurne-Bruxelles-Kuurne due to bad weather. SO I don’t feel too bad about not getting out. (any excuse to watch the Rugby).

The lovely Sian Lloyd, TV weather girl extraordinaire, re-tweeted my sponsorship page so MANY thanks to her for that, SO please check out her website.

The lovely Siân Lloyd

Well the bike is back, had to get a few spares but all is looking very good. Set the bike up in the garage and gave it a good grease / oil and service. Now as I am old, middle aged and still have a brain like a 12 year old, I have decided to splash out and upgrade. SO… I have ordered one of these babies which will be arriving in the next 4/5 days. The reasons for this are ..

1: I can use the old bike for commuting to work (and the new one for the day rides)
2: The components on the old bike are getting worn now, (and it will be expensive to replace everything)
3: I may sell the old one.
4: I am making excuses just to warrant spending more money on bikes.
5: I am getting old and I am just spending money on more toys.
6: … can’t really think of a sensible reason ?

Will post a photo of the beast once it has arrived and is assembled.

Another great event today was that Marco Pinotti (the fantastic Italian cyclist) re-tweeted one of my requests for sponsorship. I have been following him for a few years now and saw him at the Olympics last year. He is laid up with a busted shoulder at the moment, so wishing him well for a speedy recovery. So a big thankyou to the “cycling Professor” and here is a shot of him at London 2012 ( I recommend his e-book on amazon)

Pinotti … on the back straight of the London 2010 Olympic time trial

Well I suppose it had to happen sooner or later, I got caught out at a junction and due to some evasive action the chain jammed in the front derailleur. Nasty sounds and a big clunk meant the whole front mech was in a bit of a state. Managed to jury rig the gear into something I could get home on but the bike is now in the workshop. Looks like a new front mech is needed and there are a few other faults (headset bearings and the gear cables are shot) So I will get it repaired and get me back on the road ASAP. Half tempted to upgrade and use the current bike as a run around / commuter. Will have to check the bank balance before I make that decision.

Well, a few days of just the normal commute to work. There was a break in the weather so I took the opportunity to take in a 20mile ride after work. The route has some nice hills and climbs (which I need to get some practice on). Things are getting much easier the more time I spend on the bike. Have signed up for a number of sportives which start soon. So check back for some photos and updates on these soon.