I am away from Devon this week, taking some much needed R&R in Norfolk. Unfortunately, until my new Yeti arrives in April next year, there is no space on my travels for my bike. Unexpectedly, however, I was able to borrow a heavy old mountain bike for an hour's circuit of one of Norwich's leafy suburbs.
Before heading out, there was first a need to repair a persistent puncture to the rear and replace the tyre which was lacking any central tread pattern. Norwich has a large number of cycle shops but it was John Borwell Cycles that won the business and what an impressive small and exclusive establishment John has. Hung on the back wall was a Pinarello race frame in the colours of the Sky Cycling Team for the princely sum of £4,500! Out the back, to the left side of the counter, was a workshop and on the other, an Aladdin's cave of quality accessories and clothing. If I were a local, I feel I would have been a regular. Tube and tyre purchased the fitting took just a few minutes .. practice is making perfect!
So, out and along the leafy lanes I cycled. This gave me a different view of the country by bike and, despite the lack of hills, a good workout too as I could neither change up to the larger ring nor build up much speed because of the chunky off road tyres. The weather was cold and damp but the autumn colours and the big Norfolk sky made for a delightful ride. This is definitely a popular part of the country for cyclists as I passed quite a few out for a late morning constitutional. I'm looking forward to exploring more of our beautiful country next year, once I've a means of taking my bike(s) on the road.
No comments:
Post a Comment