The Conwy Valley and the Carneddau beyond, taken from the roads above Eglwysbach and LLanwrst
k c a r t t h g i r e On th Need some motivation for getting out on your bike this February? Gareth Ffowcs-Williams has some top tips…
February is a funny month, particularly in North Wales where
This challenge was riding from North to South Wales. I joined
we seem so reliant on the weather to decide our fate. Gone
him on the Dolgellau to Aberwstwyth leg, which happened to
is the initial impetuous of January, with the New Year’s
be at the same time as storm Arwen. A foolhardy endeavour
resolution honeymoon period well and truly over. February,
due to the horrendous conditions, but enjoyable nevertheless
especially for cyclists, is a month for steeling your resolve, and
– and a ride I will remember long after the memory of most
digging in while preparing for the promise of sunnier times
sunny rides has faded away.
ahead, however I actually find riding outdoors in February can be one of the most rewarding months of the year.
So don’t waste the opportunities that February brings by simply staying in and waiting for spring to arrive. Here are my
The nights are still long enough that it doesn’t have to be too
top tips to help ensure you leave the comfort of your bed:
painfully early to be able to get to a good viewpoint before
J Plan to go with someone else – it is much harder to change
the sun comes up, and crisp cold mornings, give the best air quality for clear vistas. It is often all too easy to take our backyard of North Wales for granted, but a little extra effort can reap rich rewards. My personal favourite is looking west, from the roads above Eglwysbach and Llanwrst, which gives a view of the Conwy Valley and the Carneddau beyond. This is an enviable sight all year round, but add to this
your mind when someone else is involved. J Plan where you will go in advance – so you don’t waste time in the dark thinking about it. J If in doubt, put another layer on – at this time of year it is much easier to cool down if you get too warm, than it is to heat up if you get too cold. J Set up in advance – Put all your clothing and kit out
the soft pink light of a clear morning sunrise and it simply
the night before. This reduces the chance of forgetting
cannot be beaten.
something in the morning rush, and buys you precious minutes in bed!
Even if it is chucking it down and freezing cold, all is not lost, as long as you are dressed for the elements and stay within your limits. Towards the end of last year I joined Rob Lloyd for a day on one of his Senseless challenges,
J Eat a proper breakfast – the cold takes it out of us quickly, so you need plenty of energy on board before you set off, and snack regularly during the ride or walk. J Don’t be too adventurous – stay well within your ability. Early starts, and cold temperatures can have a big effect
raising money for the
on us. You don’t need to climb Tryfan when a simple walk
charity Sense.
along the side of Llyn Ogwen will give you all the positive endorphins you need, without risking life and limb! Gareth Ffowcs-Williams is the owner of We Cycle in Llandudno Junction – the largest bicycle showroom in North Wales. www.wecycle.co.uk
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