This ride took me from Oakham in Rutland to Rothley in Leicestershire, rolling through quiet country lanes and winter farmland while I reflected on how my cycling journey really began.
Like many people, I rode bikes all my life — but I wouldn’t have called myself a cyclist. That changed in 2019 when I bought an old Trek 2.3 Alpha from an army mate for £185. I bought it sight unseen on Facebook, figuring that if it was big enough for him, it would probably fit me too.
That bike changed everything.
During lockdown I started small — five miles, then ten, then twenty-five — building up slowly until riding every day just became normal. From there the distances stretched further: rides to Leicester to visit my mum, longer days across the countryside, and eventually the idea that maybe I could ride somewhere properly far.
The first attempt was London to Geneva.
It didn’t exactly go to plan. Broken spokes, ferry problems, navigation chaos and a few lessons learned the hard way. But like most of the cycling adventures that followed, it was less about success and more about learning how to go further next time.
This ride is part of that continuing journey.
The Long Way Strong
This channel follows my journey from 110 kg occasional rider to mid-life endurance cyclist, preparing for longer and more ambitious rides — including ultra-distance events and eventually a ride from the UK to the Land of Two Rivers and the City of Peace.
Because the best way to explore the world is slowly…
and under your own power.
Endure to Explore.
#cycling #enduranceriding #longwaystrong #bikepacking #cyclingjourney
1 Comment
Get off the pavement!