11th February 2010 - Barbon

Six met up in Barbon, Jamie, Paul, Grant, Charlie, Ian and CT; after some tinkering time we set off as the church bells chimed 7, the usual start up the steep lane, over the cattle grid, turn right and then look for the bridleway on your left. The weather was cold, but dry and it had not rained for a few days, there was some running water in streams but the climb up was near perfect for grip and the best time for a clean ride. Now along the track to the next lane and then the climb up on tarmac, a little pause at the next junction then enjoy a steady 9 minute ride up the fell to the first gate, stop and enjoy the view, OK admire the night lights from Morecambe and other settlements on this clear night. Now onward and continue up after some great flapjack from Jamie (Cheers again!). There was snow and ice at the top, the gate-way was completeing covered in ice, setting the tone for the downhill section, CT ended up on a patch of ice with Paul behind wondering what CT was doing, thinking he could glide over it by not braking or sterring, but NO he just fell over on the ice, Ooch! Onward with CARE. Down to the lane, then onto the last fell section, watch that ice, and some large puddle of water where Charlie got splashed by some gent, (you don't notice it on a 29er!) At the 'S' bend half way down Grant tried to steer his CB round the ice, but no he was sucked in and fell over, 2 down...at the bottom head home via the river crossing, Paul and Jamie made it through the river the others took the bridge. Blast down the track and back through the Barbon hill climb course, all safe. 3 made it to the pub for beer & crisps with only the company of the pub dog and a log fire. Next ride Red lion at Lowick.