Wet Riding Weekend!
Just back from a weekend with the LAM team (www.l-a-m.org), working on Advanced Riding coaching over two days in Cromer. The picture above was not one of us and we did not have quite this much wet riding, but my goodness it did rain! That said, I always feel good when I can ride well in the rain - by that I mean using pace, staying smooth and keeping all my observation skills to the fore. Braking distances should be considered and an overtake needs even more planning. Wet rid
First Run of 2018!!
Our first group were with me last week, running around the wonderful Pyrenees in superb sunny weather, roads that were amazing, very little traffic and great company. Routes and roads taken were out from Biarritz to Pamplona; on from there (on one of the best rides I have ever had) up to the coast near Bilbao; then back over the hills and by the sea to Biarritz. My 4 guests arrived in different ways - 2 rode down from London with me; 1 came from near Chamonix and another fle
More on the new Speed Limits...
I posted a blog before (link here https://www.britinthebasque.com/single-post/2018/01/19/New-French-Speed-Limits---27-Jan) on French speed limit changes and I see today that the Sunday Times today is now reporting more on this. I quote below:- From July 1, motorists on the nation’s picturesque but lethal secondary roads must drive at a maximum of 80kph (50mph) instead of the current 90kph (56mph). Seldom in French history can 10 units have aroused such rebellious fury. “If th
Pre-Ride Checks
As we load up our bikes for a tour or swing a leg over ready for a Spring ride, do you look over your bike before you ride away? Are you sure that there is no damage, leaks, punctures or a failed brake light?? There a quick check routine that you can follow called POWDERS, which will help (and we use for Advanced Training) - have a look below:- Petrol. Make sure you fill your tank and top up regularly - know the range of your bike when full with fuel. Oil. You can check your
French Rail Strikes
The new employment rules in France have stimulated strikes on the French rail system (bon chance P Macron) and these could affect the Eurotunnel, so do check your times before you go. I have a tour group going over later this month - more posts and pictures to follow - and so far, we see no major delays. In any case, I attach here the strike dates and suggest you check your travel closer to the departure time.
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