Friday 7th December 2012 - Whinlatter

OK so this is not strictly a Thursday night ride, but as the rain was very bad, a couple of us took Friday off, due to the better forecast and set off for Whinlatter. Grant set off early to get a ride in before his lunchtime appointment and Jamie and CT arrived mid-morning due to child responsibilities. The roads were a bit icy and traffic slow in places but we got to Thornthwaite  and parked at the bottom of the hill, apparently Jamie wanted to ride his newly built rear wheel in by riding up on tarmac; there was snow on the tops and an icy feel so layers were put on and we headed up, nice and steady. At least they had re-built the road so it was open, albeit lots of water running off it. Half way up the road the phone went off, it was Grant saying he's finished his ride and was off for breakfast! Head up to the visitor centre, chat to the cycle shop staff and head onto the red route after seeing all the Christmas trees for sale and some real live reindeer!! A few puddles on the route, then into the snow line fairly quickly, a couple of youths passed me, but I passed one at the hairpin bends as he could not take the turn in a clean line with his mega fork set-up; gradually work the way up, keeping an eye out for snow graffiti, good riding as not too icy, just some icy! Grippy enough with normal tyres, would be better with fresh rubber ;) enjoy the last swoopy descent before a coffee break at the cafe, then onto the south circuit, icy at the start then snowy, some great photo opportunity. Then to finish back down the road then tee off left for a mega descent straight back to the car, so that's why you park at the bottom! No rain and a great day. Next ride is Elterwater