Don’t think there’s too much to worry about Bolton or Bury way tbh, Werneth low is definitely the steepest section though not too long. Around Rivington was tough last year as quite windy, I’ll be in last years Tour De Manc top probably.Not done it before. Distance doesn't worry me but 6,700 ft is going to make a case of just finishing rather than rode for a time. I know what's in store across Werneth Low, Saddleworth & Norden just haven't ridden any of the stuff over Bury & Bolton way. If it goes ahead, you'll recognise us as the blue & pink tops stick out like a sore thumb!
I shared this with one of my co-riders. He said Audax make his rides look like a trip to the corner shop.
Don’t think there’s too much to worry about Bolton or Bury way tbh, Werneth low is definitely the steepest section though not too long. Around Rivington was tough last year as quite windy, I’ll be in last years Tour De Manc top probably.
Just done 45 miles in 3 hours including climbing Cragg vale, that was windy as fuck and the descent down Blackstone edge was even worse, I’ve literally no idea how I managed to stay on when the wind hit from the side. Shitting it wound an understatement.
Tyre blew on a descent earlier this year and even though I kept control it shook me up a bit and I’ve been more cautious ever since. That said 36 mph today going down Blackstone in that wind was a little hair raising.Good average speed if you've done a fair bit of climbing.
I love descents - bit of an adrenaline junkie. I doubt my wife would let me on a bike again if she saw some of my hill descents. That said, I only go for it on roads that I know.
Training for Tour de Manc has started in earnest now. 85 miles from Warrington taking in Artists Lane (Alderley Edge); Brickworks; Long Hill & Goyt Valley route up to the Cat & Fiddle - just under 5,000 ft of climbing. Knackered this morning but it was a stunning ride.