Just spent 3 gorgeous days riding a 200km loop from Christchurch.
First half of the ride was flat as a pancake, and included the Little River Rail Trail.
The second half included over 2km vertical climb, but rewarded with truly breathtaking views and secluded areas.
I was way overpacked and slugged my way through the climbs. Western Valley Rd (5.25km at 11.3% average) was hard enough, but as I started the second major climb (Port Levi – Purau Rd, 4.2km at 10% average) I was hit with strong rains and headwinds. A bit of a taste of some "real" touring in this otherwise very cruisy 3 days in a gorgeous part of the world.
The highlight though was Summit Rd, following the rim of the ancient volcano, with amazing views on both sides, of the bay, the city, and the Southern Alps in the distance.
Can't wait to be back for a longer tour.
by Long_Way_Around_