South Downs Bikes Shop Ride

Summer returned for the September shop ride tonight. A huge gathering of a staggering 78 riders set-off up Chantry Lane. It is a long tarmac climb, quite steep in places, which is used to split the riders into groups. Last month I was left hanging on at the back of the fast group, so I headed off a little tentatively with the first 20 riders up the hill. I was relieved to find the pace more sociable tonight, and I was able to enjoy catching up with some club members I haven't seen for a while and natter with other more familiar faces. 

Riding round the hill top at Cissbury Ring, an ancient circle of trees, we flicked on our lights as the sun started to set. The orange setting sun bled beautifully into the distant mist. The sea glistened on the horizon to our left as we twisted across the grassy Down, the lights of Storrington twinkling below us.

On the decent we met some walkers sitting on a stile admiring the view. The distinctive smoke hanging in the air might have explained their relaxed attitude. "Wow, your lights were like alien spaceships coming over the hill" they marvelled.

As ever Martin was waiting for us back at the shop with a tower of burgers and buns!

Riders gather at the shop - BBQ poised ready for their return in 2 hours!