First club ride of the year will be a fairly rude start for some as it will start at the usual Saturday time. Meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
With unseasonably warm weather forecast we’ll ride an 87Km loop to the north of the forest. No coffee stop planned as all of our favourite stops are taking a well earned day off for the bank holiday so we’ll have a quick stop in Fordingbridge on the way back for anybody that wants to have a bike to eat before the final leg. So please ensure that you’re carrying enough food and drink for the ride.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1776453?units=km
We’ll keep the pace steady (circa 26KmH) so if anybody has been thinking about joining the Saturday ride now is a good time to start. Weather permitting we’ll gradually increase pace and distance over the next few months as we get ready for summer.
Hope to see another good turnout despite the early start for those that have a late night.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd Car Park, Brcokenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00A.M start
The final Sunday club Ride of the year as Boxing Day Sunday clashes with the clubs Open TT event.
Many thanks to the 60 or so individuals who have supported the ride over the past year even if it has tested my ability to remember names to the limit.. The ride now averages 14-15 riders per week and the desire of apparently rational humans beings to go out in the depths of winter in all weathers still surprises, astounds and in the case of those wearing shorts worries me (you know who you are).
This weeks route is el Classico double loop out to St Leonards and then Lepe.
Back to The Terrace for xmas coffee and festive muffins.
Route downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/2863383207795741156
Forecast a bit nippy but relatively wind free. hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Usual mid-winter format of a 3 hour / 80Km non-stop ride around the forest. No mid ride coffee stop planned but there will be mulled wine / mulled fruit punch and some nibbles in my garden at the end of the ride for those that wish to celebrate. Plus, chance to refill bottles for all those that still want extra mileage in December.
Going to head out east and around East End, Lepe and Calshot.
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1768106?units=km
Hope to see another good turnout and celebrate another year of strong and well supported club rides with everybody.
Barry
Meet as usual at 8.50 for a 9.00A.M start in Brookley rd car park, Brockenhurst.
With a few rds to avoid this weekend in Beailieu/Hythe and Holmsley we will head north for a slightly shortened version of the route out to Nomansland.
Last week's puncture blighted ride was ridden in one of the coldest, most cutting winds I can remeber so this weeks merely damp and miserable conditions should feel like a mid-summer break in Ibiza.
Course downloadable here. https://www.strava.com/routes/2903961552500741740
If conditions are tolerable we will take coffee and a carby-sugar based sin of your choosing at the Terrace back in Brock.
New covid reg's don't seem to affect the rides at this stage but let's use our own brains re: social-distancing, masks, anti bacterials etc.
On that theme I have my booster jab on Saturday, barring a bad reaction to that I hope to be there to see a great turnout as per usual on a Sunday.
Phil H
Another chilly day forecast so this week’s ride will be another 3 hour / 80Km non-stop ride so we don’t get cold at a coffee stop.
We are also still constrained by road conditions, there is a Christmas fair at Exbury this weekend and one at Beaulieu. Plus the roadworks at Holmsley all give us a number of areas to avoid.
Route will take us north and out of the forest to Awbridge and then back via Lover and hopefully avoid the traffic as much as possible.
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1763352?units=km
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00 A.M start
Same route as last weeks cancelled ride except that I have reversed it to avoid worst of Beaulieu bound traffic.
New route downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/2898882079419838558
Cafe stop at The terrace as usual (11.00-ish) unless someone comes up with a cunning plan about somehwere that we can go inside (please) and still keep eyes on the bikes.
Phil H
Thankfully weather forecast is better than last week so can get back to the weekend club rides. Forecast is for a fine but chilly day so this week’s ride will be a 3 hour / 80Km non-stop ride so we don’t get cold at a coffee stop.
We are also a little constrained by road conditions, there is a Christmas fair at Exbury for the next two weekends, one at Beaulieu next week and the roadworks at Holmsley all give us areas to void.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Route will take us north to Whitsbury (opposite way to usual) and hopefully away from the traffic. Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1759328?units=km
Barry
SUNDAY CLUB RIDE CANCELLED
Sorry all but with freezing conditions following Saturdays forecast of sleet and snow Sunday is likely to be too dangerous for group riding.
Next weeks conditions look a bit better so hopefully see a good turn out then
Phil Harris
Due to inclement weather no club ride this Saturday. Forecast of very high winds makes a peloton type ride unviable. I was hoping to revert to a gravel ride but we are due sleet and low temperatures so there is a risk, albeit a small one, of ice on the roads connecting the gravel paths so reluctantly no ride this Saturday.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
As the weather is still on our side we will use one of the slightly longer routes out to the Northern badlands.
Course downloadable here. https://www.strava.com/routes/2856116723828791586
Great to see another high turn out last weekend and the new slower group being well supported.
Finish the ride with coffee at The Terrace in Brock.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Weather forecast is set fair so we should be able to get a decent length ride in again this week. Another lumpy route with a gratuitous loop to add Pipers Wait in at the end. Total planned distance 110Km but there is an option to take out the final loop across Ocknell’s Plain and Bransgore for anyone wanting a slightly shorter option.
Route at: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1749941?units=km
Coffee stop planned for The Borough Café in Downton
Barry
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Weather forecast is set fair so we should be able to get a reasonable length ride in this week. We can make the most of the weather and enjoy the splendour of the autumn leaves as the forest canopy has gone through a beautiful transition this week.
So planned route is fairly lumpy 97Km around the forest with a mid-ride stop at The Potting Shed in Hyde which was so impressive last week with both food and service.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1744066?units=km
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley rd car park Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
Route downloadable here:
https://www.strava.com/routes/2863383207795741156
Finish at the Terrace cafe for coffee and cake.
Following last weks wash out I hope to see a great turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Weather forecast is massively better than last week. Kudos to the riderS who turned out last week, never expected numbers to get into double figures with that forecast.
This weeks planned route is 93Km loop to the north of the forest. Mid ride coffee stop at around 57Km at The Potting Shed in Hyde as we were all impressed with the food and the service last time
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1739016?units=km
Winter pace, winter tyres and mudguards order of the day if you are so equipped.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park in Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00a.m start.
Great to see so many new riders recently, many of whom have become members. Also, I notice from the club cameras that the quality of riding has been very good.
Last chance to put in orders for winter kit, you know you want it, need it and you deserve it. Check Ray's facebook post and BC emails for details.
Route downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/14921234
Finish at The Terrace cafe in Brock for a well earned vittles.
Forecast is meh but hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Weather forecast is for light rain all morning so plan is to keep the route local so we can keep it short if necessary.
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1733246?units=km
Total distance 76Km
No coffee stop planned, plan is to keep the core ride just under 3 hours and non-stop. On return to Brock if some riders want to extend, we can make a plan for a second loop and a coffee stop then.
If you haven’t contacted Ray the weather forecast this weekend is a good reminder that the Gabba and club rain jackets are a great idea!
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park in Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00a.m start.
Great to see so many new riders recently, many of whom have become members. Also, I notice from the club cameras that the quality of riding has been very good.
Last chance to put in orders for winter kit, you know you want it, need it and you deserve it. Check Ray's facebook post and BC emails for details.
Route downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/14921234
Finish at The Terrace cafe in Brock for a well earned vittles.
Forecast is meh but hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1727984?units=km
Coffee stop around 67Km at The Potting Shed in Htde
Total distance 105Km
Barry
Meet as usual at 0850 for a 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Note: I have tweaked the route slightly to avoid Charles's Lane as the road condition can be a litttle hazardous for group riding.
Route at :https://www.strava.com/routes/2827843331624100932
Finish at The Terrace cafe for coffee
Forecast is pretty good so hope to see a good turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1721075?units=km
Coffee stop at around 62Km in Beaulieu
Total distance 115KM
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park in Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00A.M start.
Route downloadable here.
https://www.strava.com/routes/22669583
After a stormy couple of days the route is likely to be pretty wet and plenty of debris on the roads so may be a good time to brush the cobwebs off the winter bikes.
Foreacst for Sunday is o.k though if a tad windy so hope to see a good turnout.
Back to The Terrace in Brock for coffee.
Phil H
Weather forecast for Saturday is for high winds (40MPH +) which makes it unsafe for a peloton style ride. Therefore, with regret there will be no club ride this Saturday. Hopefully you can use the time to get prepped for winter riding and get the mudguards / winter tyres on ready for the autumn conditions to follow.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley rd car park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
Route downloadable here. https://www.strava.com/routes/2827836239421907502
Forecast is pretty good so hope to see a good turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Keeping it local this week and hopefully away from any disruption from the A35 / Holmsley roadworks. A 109Km route with many loops to the east of the region so plenty of chances for anyone that wants a shorter ride to drop off anytime.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1701970?units=km
Coffee stop at Steff’s Kitchen in Beaulieu at 56Km.
Barry
Meet as usual at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start in Brookley rd car park in Brockenhurst.
This weeks course is the familiar one out to Hatchett Pond. St Leonards loop then Lepe Loop and back to Brock.
Course downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/2863383207795741156
If the weather is good then finish off at the Forest Park hotel. If not find cafe with good indoor seating.
Hope to hear of another great turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. A 109Km loop to the north of the region with a mid-ride coffee stop at the community shop in Broad Chalke.
Route can be round at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1693683?units=km
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park in Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00a.m start.
Ride downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/16701553
I have tinkered with the route slightly to avoid Charles's lane which can be a little dangerous at times due to the build up of gravel.
Back to The Terrace in Brock' for Vittles (as they got at least 80% of our orders correct).
Forecast is good so hope to see another excellent turnout.
Phil H
No club ride this Saturday as the majority of regular riders are helping out at the Shut Up Legs charity ride. If you want to help the ride leaders and haven’t previously volunteered, please let me know as it would be good to have two club riders with each group. SUL is a 90Km loop around the forest at a modest pace on Saturday morning. Barry
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. A 113Km loop to the north of the region. There are major roadworks at Holmsley for the next month so we might need to be flexible on the last part of the ride as there may be disruption caused by road diversions. This may also affect chain gang so please post any details or knowledge you have so we can avoid the worst parts.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1677071?units=km
Coffee stop planned for Hockey’s Farm Shop at around 70Km or Wood Green Community Shop at around 57Km
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley rd car park at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
Bank holiday weekend so will stay south of the forest for hopefully quieter rds on a Sunday morning.
I am on family duties this weekend so probably won't make it so if folk could make sure they know the route that would be helpful.
Route downloadable below.
https://www.strava.com/routes/22669583
Last chance to stop at the soon to be closed Sett for coffee at the end.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. It’s a bank holiday weekend with a good weather forecast so expect forest roads to be busy. Plan to head out of the forest for a large part of the ride and hopefully avoid the worst of the traffic and take in the roads to the north.
Coffee stop planned for the excellent Borough Café in Downton at around 60Km. Total distance around 123Km.
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1670480?units=km
We’ll split into small pelotons to minimise impact on traffic and to keep riders as safe as possible. If you’re planning on joining mid-route please let me know in advance and I’ll include that in the plans when we set off.
Pace probably around 28KmH average but as usual that will depend on who’s out and who’s on the front!
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley rd car park in Brockenhurst at 8.50 a.m for a 9.00 a.m start.
After a couple of experimental routes that didn't really work! we are back to the tried and tested route out to St Leonards and the a Lepe loop. Finish at the Sett (might be the last time)
Course has been slightly tinkered with so worth downloading here: https://www.strava.com/routes/2863383207795741156
Forecast for the morning looks quite nice so hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. After last week’s longer ride, we’ll be back to a regular distance of around 118Km. But it will be a lumpy route so prepare for some hills.
Route at:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1662375?units=km
Coffee stop planned for Minstead Community Shop at around 65Km
Barry
Meet as usual 8.50 for a 9.00 A.M start in Brookley rd car park Brockenhurst,
Another thrill-a-minute new route this week on mostly familiar roads but in a slightly different order. Hopefully this one won't take us off rd as last weeks would have.
Head to either Setley ride or Rosie Lea's on the return into Brock for vittles (If open).
Route downloadable here
https://www.strava.com/routes/2858378214193588818
Forecast looks pretty reasonable so hope to see another good turnout.
Phil H
This weeks club ride slightly longer than the usual so expect a slightly slower pace. We’ll use one of our well used routes out to Shaftsbury. Total distance of 146Km so easy for everybody who wants to get a century ride in with ride to the start and options for those that don’t to cut it a bit short at the end. Route can be found at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1652121?units=km
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
There will be a halfway coffee stop and this is planned at The Rising Sun, Salisbury Road, Donhead St Mary, Shaftesbury, Wiltshire, SP7 9LT https://www.risingsundonhead.co.uk . If we need additional stops to grab provisions, then we pass the community shop in Broad Chalke and have options in Cranbourne / Alderholt on the return.
The planned route I had around Hampshire will be re-scheduled as I’ve not had chance to test the route yet.
Barry
Meet as usual at 8.50 in car park in Brookley rd at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
Keeping things fresh with a new route this week, all on familiar rds.
Route downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/2858374042708013720
With the imminent closure of The Sett I thought we could try out the apparently refurbished Mabels just before returning to Brock.
If the Saturday ride is cancelled due to the imminent thunder storm we could add another loop after the cafe.
Forecast is pretty good so hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
This weeks route is a 62K there and back to Hamptworth, route downloadable here:
https://www.strava.com/routes/2856116723828791586
Forecast is good so hope to see another great turnout.
If The Sett is still open we'll head there for vittles, if not, find somewhere else.
Phil H
Expecting the forest to be very busy on Saturday so plan this week is to head north out of the forest for a 118Km ride and hopefully quieter roads. Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. We’ll head out via Bolderwood and turn for home after a coffee stop at the Waitrose Farm Shop in Longstock Park, Leckford. From previous experience head for the Cheery Tree Café there and hopefully get served a lot quicker.
Route at: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1638153?units=km
Barry
No club ride this Saturday. Forecast of thunderstorms Saturday morning makes it unsafe to ride. On the plus side it does give us the opportunity to watch the Olympic Road Race and hopefully ride later in the day.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley rd car park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00 a.m start.
As the forecast for this Sunday is so good I thought I slightly longer (62K) route would be welcome so have made a new route albeit on mostly familiar rds.
Course downloadable here. https://www.strava.com/routes/2850665766061269560
The forecast is scorchio so don't forget the suncream and rehydration.
Finish at The Sett for coffee, looks like they are closing down sadly so we'll make the most of them while we are here.
Hope to see a great turnout as usual.
Club ride this week will be one contained within the forest. Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. There we will get into however many groups we need and head out towards Burley.
Coffee stop planned for the Community Shop in Minstead at halfway. Weather forecast is very good so please ensure you have plenty of water. There may be a tap in Minstead at the Trusty Servant and there is also one in Beaulieu at The Old Fire Station where we can refill.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1622295?units=km
Barry
Back on the mainland this week after last week’s tour of the IOW. Weather forecast is not brilliant so please ensure that you have adequate clothing for the ride.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road. Ride will be a 122Km route to the north and west of the region. Quite a hilly route so may be a slightly slower average speed than recent rides.
Route can be found at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1614096?units=km
Coffee stop planned for around 68Km at the Borough Café in Downton
Barry
Whilst Phil H is away getting his usual punctures and being grumpy in another part of the country, I’ve taken on his role of planning the Sunday ride this week.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Then one of our regular rides around St Leonards and Lepe and back to Brock for coffee.
Route at https://www.strava.com/routes/2832910306026154664
Barry
As mentioned a few weeks ago, this week’s club ride will be a long awaited return to the splendours of the Isle of Wight. We’ll largely follow the standard route of the island but add a section to ride up to the Needles Battery. Total distance on the island will be 110KM plus whatever you do to and from Lymington.
Pace will need to be a little easier than the usual Saturday ride as the route is hilly and we need to keep the group(s) together as I don’t want to lose anybody on the island!
Plan to catch the 0845 ferry from Lymington to Yarmouth. Arrival in Yarmouth 0925. Ride the route anti-clockwise so first leg up to the Needles Battery, enjoy the views and photo opp and then drop down to the Tandem Tea Room in Brighstone which has been recommended to me.
From there about 90 minutes riding to Bembridge which has a couple of options of bakery and café for lunch stop. Post lunch head north to Cowes and catch the river ferry and ride back to Yarmouth.
To allow times for food stops, ferries, mechanicals and hills I’d plan on returning on the 1705 ferry (we may be an hour earlier) but Yarmouth is another nice place to stop so hopefully no need to rush. Weather forecast looks fine so should be an excellent day ride.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1602689?units=km
Barry
This week’s club ride is 109Km route around the south of the forest.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1598826?units=km
Coffee stop at Steff’s in Beaulieu at around 65Km
Groups will be split to keep the peloton sizes manageable and minimise impact on traffic as usual. This will also enable us to arrive in small groups at the coffee stop rather than one big groups that overwhelms the café.
Hope to see another good turnout.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00a .m start.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast this week. Electrical storms are currently predicted for Sunday morning, if that forecast still holds on by Saturday afternoon it would make the ride unsafe and it will be cancelled. I will post if that is the case.
Quick reminder to Sunday riders that we also now have the option of a slower paced but longer Saturday ride with the 'piano' group. See Saturday rides for details.
This weeks route is downloadable here. https://www.strava.com/routes/16701553
Finish at The Sett for vittles.
I am likely to be away this weekend on family duties, have a great ride.
Phil H
This week’s club ride will be back in the New Forest after last week’s excursion to the Chalke Valley. Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Plan to run the usual (should we now call it Allegro?) group as well as the Piano group. So, if you fancy the same route at a slightly easier pace there are options.
Route at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1590011?units=km
Total distance 115Km.
Options to refuel in Brockenhurst and plan an extra loop for the mileage monsters.
Coffee stop planned for Minstead Community Shop at around 66Km.
We can divert in Beaulieu to refill bottles if required.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park in Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00a.m start.
Forecast is excellent so we will use the slightly longer than usual route out via Rhinefield and oBlderwood, crossing Ocknell Plain through Bramshaw, Bartley, Ipley Cross, Hatchett Pond and back to Brock for coffee at The Sett.
Route downloadable here.
https://www.strava.com/routes/2827836239421907502
Hope for another great turnout.
Phil
After last week’s epic ride a more “normal” Saturday ride this week. Plan to revisit one of our regular routes that we’ve not used for a while as we were keeping rides very local. So, this week it’s a trip along the Chalke Valley and a mid-ride coffee stop at the Community Shop in Chalke Valley. Please be aware that café space is limited and may be reserved so eating on the green opposite the shop may be the best option.
Route is 106Km and can be found here: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1581578?units=km
Those wanting a longer ride can then plan an extra loop at the end.
Both the standard ride at a probably 28KmH pace and the Piano group riding the same course at a slightly slower pace will be running.
Safety note: I rode most of this route this week and there are two places of severe subsidence on the left hand side of the road. So please take extra care between Sandleheath and Alderholt and descending Kent Lane towards Harbridge.
There were also roadworks in North Gorley this week so we may need to dismount to walk through the works (there is pedestrian access).
Barry
Weather forecast looks splendid, so we’re go for the long ride this weekend.
We will keep pace well below the current Saturday pace in respect of the distance and the logistics of the day. I expect the average to be 25-26Kmh.
Thanks to Phill B details and plan are on the club website at https://www.newforestcc.co.uk/dday/
Please meet at Beachern Wood (just off Rhinefield Road) car park for a 0700 depart. Please congregate there rather than outside my house as I don’t want to wake all the neighbours! Julie’s car will be open to drop off any bags that you might want for later, we will aim to meet her at 73Km at Stoney Cross car park at 1030. There will be water bottles in her car for all (there may be a tap at Hockey’s as well). You can also drop jackets off and pick up any food you’ve put in your bag.
For those wanting a shorter ride we will not depart Stoney Cross car park before 1030 so please feel free to join there (or anywhere else on route). Also, there is no compulsion to complete the route, but if you do leave can you please let others know so we don’t go back looking for you.
Julie’s started the baking so we’re good to get refuelled at 170 and 207Km. Again, you can refill bottles here and collect / drop anything off in your bags. Also planning to stop at 124Km in Lepe for food / drink / toilet break. If we cannot get served here, we can divert to Beaulieu later on.
Hope to see another good turnout
Barry
Link to Stoney Cross meeting point
http://www.newforestexplorersguide.co.uk/cycling/ride-6-start.html
Link to Beachern / Beechern Wood carp park (it’s spelt both ways on local maps)
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&tbs=lf:1,lf_ui:1&tbm=lcl&sxsrf=ALeKk02JajKh1se6vdKyQj8EpPxf5o-4FQ:1622640548435&q=beachern+wood+car+park&rflfq=1&num=10&ved=2ahUKEwj38vKLh_nwAhVMQMAKHQ5RAzsQtgN6BAgEEAQ&safari_group=2#rlfi=hd:;si:;mv:[[50.8242244336855,-1.591224588037119],[50.82038825471444,-1.6021680008178807]]
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car park , Brockenhurst at 8.50 for a 9.00 A.M start.
As it's a bank holiday weekend we will use the two loops on quieter rds in the south and south east. Starting with the Lepe loop and then the St Leonards loop.
Route downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/2832910306026154664
Then back to The Sett cafe for Tiffins
It's been a long wait for some decent weather so let's make the most of it.
Hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
I’ve been advised that Mabel’s is shut so lastminute change of route. We’ll stop for coffee in Beaulieu instead. Choice there for either sit down or take away if it’s busy.
This week’s club ride will be a two-loop route with the second loop taking us around Lepe and East Boldre as we usually do on Bank Holiday weekends to try and avoid the heaviest traffic.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Please remember that Social Distancing rules still apply at the start point and at all stops. Those wishing to join the “Piano” ride please assemble at the back as this ride will set off last.
Route at: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1563263?units=km
Total distance 121Km
Please note that next week’s ride is the D-Day ride and offers options for some longer rides. Please refer to last week’s Facebook posts or https://www.newforestcc.co.uk/dday/ for details if you haven’t seen them.
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd Car Park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for 9.00a.m start.
We no longer have to gather in groups of six or fewer but may split the group if we have high numbers.
This week's route can be downloaded here https://www.strava.com/routes/16701553
Plan to have cafe stop at club favourite The Sett if they have space for us on arrival back into Brock.
Weather forecast is quite mixed so keep an eye out for it worsening significantly as 5 of us will testify that it did last week.
Hopefully will be fine and we will see the now traditional high turnout.
Phil H
This week’s club ride will be an out and back ride to Longstock. 110Km route which can be downloaded from https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1554629?units=km
Mid-ride coffee stop will be at the Waitrose Longstock Park Farm Shop. Should be plenty of space there with the café, tables outside and the Cherry Tree Café (the hut) in the orchard.
As per last week we run multiple groups including the new Piano group at a slightly slower pace. This will also ensure that we arrive at the café in small groups which is more manageable.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. The Rule of Six when we’re not riding is no longer a mandatory requirement, but we must still observe the prevailing Social Distancing rules when outside. For those wishing to join the Piano group please assemble at the back as this group will set off last.
Hope to see another strong turnout, 22 last week on a day with bad weather was very impressive.
Barry
Due to the inclement weather forecast (high winds and rain) it is not safe to run Chain Gang this week. Next Chain Gang 27th May 1845
Barry
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd Car Park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 for 9.00A.M start.
This weeks course is slightly longer than normal at 60K. Course downloadable here. https://www.strava.com/routes/2827836239421907502
Back to New Forest Park hotel for coffee and vittles at the end.
I would like to bring the attention of Sunday riders to the new regular option on Saturdays. From this week the club will be running a longer ride but at a more manageable pace led by John Jackson. (Please see Saturday rides for details)
Forecast is a bit mixed but o.k so I hope to see another great turnout.
Phil H
This week’s club ride will be a 104Km route around the forest. Coffee stop planned at 61KM at the community shop in Minstead.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Plan is to have two rides running at slightly different paces. The usual group will leave at 0900 and run at around 27-28KmH average. The new “Piano” group (check musical and Italian definitions if you need to) will leave at 0905 and run at Sunday pace, probably around 25-26KmH. This group will use the same course as the faster ride. If you want to join the new group, please assemble near John Jackson who will lead the group. Please remember that the “Rule of 6” still applies in the car park and anytime we’re not riding.
Planned route is at https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1545946?units=km
Weather forecast if for some light showers but nothing too bad this week. If the weather does turn nasty there are a couple of options to shorten the route.
Hope to see another good turnout
Barry
Meet as usual at Brookley Rd Car Park in Brockenhurst 8.50 for 9.00a.m start.
This weeks route can be downloaded here: https://www.strava.com/routes/14884866
Cafe stop back in Brock at the Forest Park Hotel.
Saturday's ride may be badly effected by the poor weather that is forecast in which case I will probably add a second loop for those that want to get a longer ride in.
Forecast is quite warm if a little windy so hope to get another excellent turn out.
Phil H
Due to the inclement weather forecast (heavy rain and 40MPH+ winds) there will be no club ride this week. Hopefully, most people can join the Sunday ride and add some mileage on at the end if they wish.
Barry
Meet as usual 8.50 a.m for a 9.00 a.m start.
This week’s ride will be a hilly 100Km route north of the forest. There’s a lot of “chip and cover” road repair work going on in the south of the New Forest to Whitsbury.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart at the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Please remember that the Rule of Six still applies at the start, end, coffee stop and if we stop for any mechanicals.
Route can be found here: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1528121?units=km
If anybody riding is doing the Round the Forest TT on Sunday and want an easier pace please make that known at the start and we’ll set up groups accordingly. Coffee stop is planned for Hockey’s around halfway. Hopefully there’s enough outside space there for us to spread out.
Hope to see another good turnout
Barry
Chain gang running as usual this week. 1830 depart from outside St Saviours Church in Wilverley Road, Brockenhurst. Standard route and groups to be formed dependant on who’s out. Or, as last week if the pace gets too hot a second group will form naturally on the road. Wind direction is forecast to be back to normal so that should mean an easier finish than last week.
Please note that next month the start time moves back to 1845 as we’ve got more daylight. Also, no chain gang on Thursday 6th as we’ve an inter club TT that night. Chain gang will move to Tuesday 4th instead next week.
Barry
Building on the last couple of weeks, this week’s club ride will be a 113Km trip around the forest with an option to cut short to around 80Km for those that wish. Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Remember that the Rule of Six still applies when we’re not riding so, please ensure that this is observed at the start, coffee stop, finish and if we stop for any mechanicals.
Route will take us around Lepe, Calshot and after 63Km we’ll stop for coffee in Minstead at the Community Shop as we did last week. The green there gives us plenty of room for a socially distanced stop and the coffee, cake, welcome and service are all very good.
We’ll then head to Emery Down and Bolderwood where those who want a shorter ride can peel off back to Brock and those that want the full distance can do a loop around Ogdens.
Hope to see another good turnout as we’ve enjoyed since the re-start of group riding.
Route at: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1519162?units=km
Barry
Chain gang will be running as usual this week at 1830 on Thursday. Please arrive warmed up ready for a prompt start. Meet outside of St Saviours Church, Wilverley Road, Brockenhurst. Please remember to comply with Group of Six protocols at the start and finish. As we did last Tuesday we may split the group into different speeds depending on who’s riding and how many riders are out. Weather looks fair but there is a strong easterly wind forecast which should make good teamwork an asset for the last leg of the ride back to Brock.
Barry
Meet in Brookley Rd Car Park 8.50a.m for a 9.00a.m start.
Following on from the strong form of riders on the first two club rides since the re-start, this weeks ride will again be a little longer than the previous ones as we get back to “normal”.
Usual meet at 0850 for an 0900 depart from the car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.
Route can be found at: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1507221?units=km
Route is 103Km
I’m expecting the forest to be a bit busier this week with the campsites re-opening as well as more shops and hospitality venues opening. There is also a UK Cycling event that is fully subscribed running in the forest Saturday and Sunday so we will have more traffic and more riders to contend with than we are used to. I’ve done my best to avoid the routes being used by the sportive but that has meant largely reversing last weeks route to do this and make the coffee stop work.
With the easing of lockdown restrictions, we can re-introduce a coffee stop to this weeks ride. After around 58Km we’ll pass the Community Shop in Minstead. This is a well-used and well-liked stop for the Saturday ride but please be aware of the following considerations. Although we can ride in groups of up to 15 when we stop (or anytime we’re not riding) the “Rule of 6” applies. So, when queuing or taking drinks onto the green remember “Rule of 6” and Social Distancing. Face coverings are also mandatory to enter the shop as is contactless payment so please come equipped. Current hygiene restrictions also mean that the shop cannot refill bottles so if you need additional supplies you will need to buy bottled water. We’ll ensure that we have manageable groups to ensure that we don’t arrive at Minstead en masse.
Hope to see another good turnout
Barry
Meet in Brookley Rd Car Park 8.50a.m for a 9.00a.m start.
(New or guest Riders please arrive a few minutes early).
Please remember to gather in groups of no more than six and to maintain social distancing. Keep an obvious space between each group. As we leave the car park we will form larger groups and these will be allocated before leaving.
Great to see such a high turnout last weekend (19). Riding was pretty good if perhaps slightly faster than intended. We will of course always ride to the pace of the slowest rider on Sundays. Please keep an eye out for one another. No one must get dropped on Sunday Club Ride.
Reviewing the safety camera footage I did spot a couple of group riding no-no's!.
1.Riders should under no circumstances ride no-handed whilst in the group. If you need both hands for something either ask for the group to stop or make your way to the back of the group.
2. Overtaking on a sharp, right handed downhill bend. Remember, risking your own safety is one thing, risking that of other riders is another.
Course downloadable here https://www.strava.com/routes/16701553
No cafe stop planned again this week but if you know of a suitable place in Brock where we can get takeaways whilst socially distancing etc then let me know (Might be a little cold for al fresco anyway)
Forecast is cold and breezy again but it's character building so I hope to see another fabulous turnout.
Phil H
Thanks to all those that joined the first club ride of the year last week. Hopefully we’re all getting used to riding in a group again.
One small observation from last week. Please remember that when riding in a group it’s vital that we keep communications flowing up and down the group, whether that’s notifying hazards, advising when to single up or split the group or if a rider is dropped on a hill or having a mechanical issue. This is everybody’s responsibility. It’s not always possible for a rider at the back to bridge to the front to advise of issues so essential that we pass messages though the group in a timely and clear fashion.
Last week’s pace was a little lively for some first time out, it was more of a mid-summer pace. So, this week try and back off a little and ensure that we keep the group(s) tight.
Please make every effort to be at the start for 0850 and remember the “Rule of 6” in the car park. Last week we had 11 riders at the start, took the decision to ride one group rather than 2 and shortly after the start we had 15. Which although within the guidelines approved by British Cycling was hard to manage. If we had that many at the start we would have made 2 groups. If you plan to join mid-ride please try and let me know in advance and I’ll factor that into group planning.
Going to increase the distance a little this week. Route will be a 93Km anti clockwise loop around the forest. Usual depart at 0900 from the main car park in Brookley Road, Brockenhurst. Please note that the car park has had its layout changed so we may need to congregate in different places now. Route can be downloaded from:
https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1499210?units=km
No planned coffee stops but there may be an opportunity for a takeaway service in Burley near the end (make sure you’ve got a face covering handy). We will plan a short stop mid ride for those that want to take on some nutrition.
Please note that the level crossing in Brockenhurst has planned closures this weekend so watch out for more traffic on other roads and traffic jams on the A337. We’re doing our best to keep away from that area, but it may be disruptive at the start and finish and for getting to the start.
Hope to see another good turnout
Barry
Following on from last weeks successful re-introduction of the Chain Gang we’ll be riding again over the usual course this week. So, meet at 1820 for a 1830 depart from outside St Saviours Church in Wilverley Road, Brockenhurst. Please remember to observe the “Rule of 6” at the start while we assess how many groups and size of groups.
Quality of riding last week was generally good. We just lost shape a little as we approached Burley and just need to ensure that we keep the group very tight on The Straight Mile as we approach the hill at Wilverley. So please keep communicating with other riders, keep the gaps tight and maximise the benefits of drafting. No big deal they were minor issues on a ride that was mostly ridden with good skill by everybody.
Traffic was pleasingly light last week, presumably down to the lack of campers and overnight stays in the forest so enjoy it while it lasts!
Note for diaries, no Chain Gang on the 15th April as there’s an inter-club TT scheduled that night.
Hope to see another good turnout this week.
Barry
We're back.
Meet as usual in Brookley Rd car Park, Brockenhurst at 8.50 a.m for a prompt 9.00 a.m start.
If you are new to the club rides or a guest rider please arrive 5 minutes early at 8.45. If you join on-route pick a group with less than 15 in it.
Please read the guidelines posted earlier in the week.
Gather in groups no larger than 6, we will form larger group or groups as we leave the car park depending on numbers.
It's Easter weekend but also still partially in lockdown so hard to know if it's going to be busy or not but we will use the South/South East route to Hatchett Pond East Dean/Beaulieu, Lepe etc as it tends to be quieter.
Strictly a no-drop social ride, let's keep an eye out for anyone dropping off the back and pace accordingly. Lock-down has been kinder to some of us than others so expect people to return at a wide range of fitness levels.
Route is 55K so we should get back to Brock 11.15-30 ish.
I think we will have to forgo the usual end of ride coffee stop for the next coupe of weeks unfortunately.
Forecast is cold but fair so I hope to see a great turnout.
Course map downloadable here.
https://www.strava.com/routes/2734021243800905316
Phil Harris
For our first club ride of 2021 we’ll brave the bank holiday traffic and take a clockwise loop of the forest. Ride is just over 80K so expect a steady 3 hour pace. Pace will be steady and the focus on getting re-acquainted with the skills of peloton riding. No coffee stops are planned during the ride or at the end. For those wanting some extra mileage suggest we re-group at the end and formulate a plan.
I hope that we’re all sufficiently aware of the protocols for social distancing and hygiene but there are a couple of specifics for club rides that we must adhere to:
• At the start and finish we must comply with the “Rule of 6”. So, in the car park that means 2M distancing and no groups larger than 6. If you are the seventh rider please start a new group.
• When we ride the social distancing rule is 1M with mitigations. So, we can ride a la peloton in either single or double lines as appropriate. As it’s a Bank Holiday weekend the forest may be busier than usual so those at the back of the pack please keep an eye for traffic and advise those ahead if its’ better / safer to single up.
• As a British Cycling affiliated club we are permitted to ride in groups of up to 15. We will almost certainly keep groups well under that number but when we are riding we can exceed the Rule of 6.
Usual meet at 0850 for a prompt 0900 depart. If there are any riders that are new to the group please be there at 0845 and we’ll give you some additional guidance on how we ride.
Route is at: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1484414?units=km
Hope to see a good turnout of the regulars and some new faces
Barry
It’s back! After a complete wipe out in 2020 it’s great to be able to advise that the clubs’ chain gang will re-start on Thursday 1st April. Meet outside St Saviours Church in Wilverley Road Brockenhurst around 1820 for a depart at 1830 sharp. Please remember that although the new guidelines allow for a group of up to 15 on the road the “Rule of 6” still applies at the start and finish so please observe this and social distancing at the start.
First rides will be a slower pace than usual as we get back into the disciplines of group riding and pace lines so, please keep the focus on keeping exemplary form and for those who are experienced at the Chain Gang please help any newbies.
Weather forecast looks good if a little windy, might be a headwind finish for a change if the forecast stays the same.
Lights and a bit of hi vis advised for the early season especially if you have a long ride home.
Look forward to seeing everybody again.
Barry
With the news that the New Forest being moved into Tier 4, club rides are postponed until further notice
Enjoy your solo riding and hopefully see you out on the roads and change a cheery wave sometime
Barry and Phil
