Trekkers’ Talk

Another end-of-year Christmas Social and another epic cliffhanger of a quiz. Last year the Pilots edged a close two point victory over the Stokers. Could they possibly make it two in a row?

Alas, no.

With a single point deciding who would be crowned 2024 victors, the accolade fell to the Stokers; 38-37, the final tally.

And so, Trekkers finally say goodbye to another superb cycling season. And what a great laughter filled way to round off the fun tonight’s ensemble turned out to be.

Merry Christmas everyone.

A truly incredible demonstration of many hands make light work. 16 pilots, 5 stokers and 1 guide dog cleaned and fettled 2 dozen bikes, all within two and a half hours.

It was a classic cold, damp day, but the atmosphere was abundant with Trekker’s characteristics of warmth and friendship in bountiful supply.

Thanks to all who attended it always amazes where all these people suddenly pop up from to spend a Saturday morning getting damp and oily.

Barney (aka Chief Grease Monkey).

10 tandems, 2 solos and 13 degrees of winter sunshine, all joined forces to make today’s ride a fitting finale to a fantastic season.

Over 2024, Trekkers have run a total of 40 rides and track sessions; that’s more than any previous year. The average number of cyclists attending each outing was 15.78. And by a complete fluke, the total number of attendances (that’s adding together the number of riders per ride over the season) came to 631; exactly the same number as our previous record which was set in 2019.

Topping the pilot leader board this year was, once again, Drew. And the 2024 award for the most number of stoker appearances goes to …. wait for it …..Martin.

That said, it has been a real encouragement to see so many others join us Saturday after Saturday – week in and week out. In fact, although pilot shortage can be a reoccurring theme, I believe that the number of times stokers have actually had to step down this year is minimal.

Well folks, it’s now time to don the marigolds and get ready to clean and lube our machines next Saturday, before we finally shut our riding shop for 2024.

Arguments with pot holes, especially when cycling, are not recommended – as Keith and Collette discovered today. Deceptively difficult to spot in both low bright sunlight and strong shadows, they are an absolute scourge to anyone out and about on a bike. Thankfully today’s incident was at very low speed, and despite taking quite a nasty tumble (suggesting a visit to A&E for a check over was in order) I’m happy to report that both Trekkers, though sore, are now safely on their way home. “I feel like I’ve just had three G&T’s” quipped Collette following the fall. “Lucky you” replied Martin.

Six of the original eight tandems, accompanied by a couple of solos, then continued up the Greenway rendezvousing at the Sunflower Cafe.

Talking of the two solos, it was encouraging to be joined by Warren and Hilary who have expressed interest in joining us as pilots next season. It was also good to see Kieran on his first ride out with us as a stoker.

It was a strange Marie-Celeste like sight that greeted team DrewJulMart when they arrived at storage – the doors were closed, the trailer was parked in the yard but of the ride leader and his car there was no sign. Luckily Drew had his keys and was able to get going with the loading of bikes.

Stevie B then resurfaced having gone home as he’d forgotten his keys for storage. (He still hasn’t found them….)

Anyway, all was well in the end and off we went to Springwood Carpark, Whalley.

The ride was undertaken without too much fuss apart from Bossy Michelle (her words) telling Jean she was riding up Grindleton Brow and not getting off. Seemed to work…..

Cafe was acquired in a state of no other customers (hurrah!); quite a few more cyclists came in after us but that was their problem.

There was a slight hiatus when two or three of us got no scran and had to issue a polite request to be fed or else….still it was a good cheese ‘n’ ham toasty when it did finally arrive…..

Route back to cars was pleasant and carefree. The day was dry with no wind and absolutely no blue sky anywhere at all, which is getting a bit tedious now. Do one clouds! Get in the sea! 

Thanks to all pilots and chauffeurs and trailer towers and stokers for another great family outing.

The highlights of this morning’s session at Leeds Road were two solo recumbents, and the latest addition to Barney’s family, guide puppy Annie.

It was also a pleasure to welcome new Stoker, Kieran.

Being a smaller session than normal, there was plenty of pilot-stoker swapping; undoubtedly one of the benefits of a track meet. Not to mention the ability for VI’s to take charge of their own solo cycle (even if it’s got three wheels).

Limitless Special – 27 Oct 24

A squad of 6 Trekkers Pilots, plus assistant, helped with a charity event for British Cycling Limitless and VICTA charity at Manchester Velodrome today.  In total,11 young people got to experience velodrome riding; all had a very enjoyable time.

The day started with a quick lesson in velodrome riding on tandems for 5 of our pilots, new to the skills, and along with 2 other pilots, and a coach a rotation scheme, ensured we had 6 tandems out whenever possible.  One brave young lad even went out solo initially under the guidance of a BC coach and then, more latterly, our own Dave F took over guidance duties from another solo.

In addition to riding all present got the opportunity to meet paralympic gold medallists on tandems Lizzi Jordan and James Ball.

Many thanks to Steve B, Dave F, Brian C, Tim R, Mike H and Izzy H in their assistance to make this a great day for the young people.

Coming soon details of the Trekkers exclusive session in January – all welcome.

Barney

Not even a rear wheel puncture, a split chain and an extra 12% ascent could prevent seven tandems from enjoying a thoroughly brilliant ride around the north Yorkshire village of Gargrave in what can only be described as wonderful autumn weather.

Shout out to JD Tandems for allowing us to use their facilities and Team Wigglesworth who run a superb Saturday morning cafe in the local community centre.

It’s a challenging ride but the teamwork displayed kept everyone safe and sound.

Well done everyone.

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As Tim commented, as Vicki affirmed and as the football cliche has it, today’s ride was most certainly one of two halves. Outbound was wet; sock soakingly so. Inbound was sunny, but insufficiently so, if the hope had been to dry out squelchy cycling shoes.

Whatever the weather, listening to the flowing banter (some of it unrepeatable for legal reasons) on a Saturday morning sojourn at Hayley’s cafe, is enough to put a warm smile on the very dampest of faces.

Billed as an 18 mile route, today’s ride around Stamford Bridge was, indeed, 18 miles. But it wasn’t on the planned roads. Inclement weather meant the short off-road section was impassable to all but ducks and submarines.

Fortunately pilot Mark, a long time resident of Stamford Bridge, was able to redirect us on previously risk assessed/ridden routes.

A great discovery at the end of the ride was The Cafe at No 10. Loads of seating, tasty fare and  cafe crack by the bucket load  – courtesy of Team Trekkers.

In the words of one of our longest-suffering (sorry, longest-serving) members, Martin “Another camaraderie-infused outing.”

Pilot shortage, coupled with a flu-like bug doing the rounds, meant that the enjoyment of our ride up the Greenway, in glorious Autumn sunshine, was restricted to just four tandems this morning.

That said, it looks like the recently experienced days of struggling to get front seat riders are about to end….

Elliott, pictured above, who we met on the Greenway, is very keen to sign up and has promised to put the word out to his friends at nursery. Aged two, he’s already a very accomplished young cyclist and I’m sure he’ll be a great asset to Trekkers.

I said above, he was a very accomplished rider. Look closely, the bike is stationary and both Elliott’s feet are off the ground and he‘s perfectly balanced. Impressive or what!!!!

Takeaways from today’s bash from Birkin: Calling a venue “Fisheries” doesn’t necessarily mean they sell chips – but they do – which is just as well as the only hot butties on offer were bacon (no eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes or beans 😢); Judith is a very capable ride leader🚴‍♀️; we’re grateful we have another driver who can tow🚗 – thanks Stevie; all timing chain rings need checking for tightness – thanks Dave for sorting the one which came off today (glad you found the bolt); and we need to check seat collar bolts too; it doesn’t matter if it’s cold if the sun is shining; trains sometimes run to time 🚂; cycling out to the venue is fun (Keith did it again); cycling cohorts often mingle; and last, but not least —— Trekkers are an absolutely amazing cycling community… long may the fun continue😀😀😀😀😀

After humming over the Humber and battling through Barton, an ensemble of 9 tandems and 3 solos thoroughly enjoyed a lovely 22 mile loop around some superb quiet lanes in rural north Lincolnshire.

Wonderful weather served only to make a brilliant route, planned by Barney, led by Steve D and backed up by Drew, much better.

Definitely a ride to feature in future calendars.

No sooner had we set off from Birkin than the first few raindrops fell. Determining this was an ominous sign, Drew and Tariq rushed back to grab rain gear.

Alas – it proved to be an unnecessary return. From then on the skies refused to yield any further moisture, thus enabling eight pairs to enjoy a great dry ride around Church Fenton.

Super to see Baz back on a bike. And special thanks to Brian&Muz and Judith&Jules for admirably marking and seeing the rest of us safely across the many junctions this route entails.

Another thoroughly enjoyable Greenway ride successfully completed by seven tandems and a solo. Expertly lead by Lou, and back marked by Judith, a prompt getaway, and the absence of any mechanical issues, meant that we were all safely back at HQ a little after noon – and that’s after a very leisurely camaraderie infused brunch at the Sunflower.

Well done everyone.

This post started life as a “Thank you” to everyone who had made our Residential Weekend such a superb success. But then the truth dawned. Absolutely everyone who attended had a played their part.

The expressions of gratitude, written below, have been collated from multiple sources; personal observations, overheard comments, WhatsApp chats and one-to-one conversations. Indeed, most of what is written is not from the author. Perhaps AI has even had a part to play in compiling some of the comments. So, apologies if some of the wording is a bit “starchy”.

The simple fact is that many of the positive thoughts attributed to an individual, apply equally to many others. But if there’s one characteristic that shines through, it’s got to be the sheer camaraderie that flows though Trekkers in bucket loads.

Long may this positive spirit endure.

One of the advantages offered by a track session is the ability to mix and match different pilots with different stokers. Optimising this inherent benefit, this morning’s ride at Bodington Fields’ 1.0 mile purpose built circuit saw all five pilots ride with all five stokers.

So successful was our seat swapping, and in the interests of pushing the boundaries, it’s been mooted that next time, stokers should ride with stokers.

I was going to end this short write up with “Any takers?” But knowing the adventurous nature of many of our back seat riders, I’ll refrain!!

An interesting start to the day. Access to our trailers was completely blocked this morning. Site contractors had parked a dumpster and a road roller directly in front of our trailers. And we needed to hitch both up.

Thankfully, glinting in the early morning sun, the roller’s silver ignition key was an invitation not to be missed. A quarter of a turn and a push of the hand throttle was all that was needed to move the goodness knows how many tons of rounded metal at the breathtaking speed of 2.0 mph, out of the way.

Alas, the problem persisted. There was still not enough room to extract our trailers. The dump truck needed shifting as well. Problem – no ignition keys.

But who needs ignition keys? Handbrake off – and with a bit of rocking motion plus help from a couple of locals, and this wheeled obstacle was sufficiently relocated as well.

The day was saved. And what a great day it transpired to be.

10 tandems on a 26 mile new route, crowned off with five bikes deciding to add another few miles by completing the western half of the traditional Fairburn Loop.

Thanks to one and all for a fantastic ride.

Having just read the uncannily accurate photo description that Jules’ app has produced of a selfie starring Rebecca, Tom and herself, I’m very tempted to simply post a load of pictures and let AI describe what a wonderful morning we’ve all just enjoyed.

But to do so would be to rob you of many details. How a massive turnout totalling 27 Trekkers rode in 25 degree sunshine; how smoothly the filming and interviewing all went; how encouraging it was to be joined by Dave, Rebecca, Connor and James on their maiden non-track ride. And much much more.

I really can’t wait to see how the final footage today’s media focussed trip along the Calder Valley and Spen Valley Greenways turns out.

Stay tuned.

The logistics for today’s trip to Dalby Forest started with “And now for something completely different…” And, boy, was it different!

Despite a misleading postcode for our start point, a temperature of just 12 degrees, constant drizzle, a tandem taking a scenic detour, another tandem suffering a mashed up chain ring and snapped chain, and an end of ride cafe mix up, it’s rather remarkable that the overwhelming consensus of the eight tandems and one solo was it was a brilliant ride.

Yes, it was a long day, lengthened by the need to wash down nine extremely caked in mud, very mucky bikes.

But the banter on the way back was next time let’s do two circuits of the Adderstone Trail. One simply isn’t enough.

And so ….. till next time….

Our engagement with local employer Cummins goes from strength-to-strength.

From participating at their 70th Anniversary in September 2022, to their generous financial assistance last year, to practical maintenance support a couple of months ago, to this morning when we welcomed a total of nine employees to a special and thoroughly enjoyable induction session at Leeds Road Sports Complex.

Led by Tom, who most of you know works at Cummins, a mixed team of Trekkers’ pilots and stokers went through what’s involved in riding bicycles built for two.

The morning couldn’t have run any smoother. It even stayed dry.

If you want to see what a partnership between the corporate world and the voluntary sector looks like, then look no farther.

Long may our engagement continue.

The forecast was quite wrong. Thankfully.

Quite simply, the threatened rain failed to put in an appearance. And so 6 pilots (not counting the guest appearance of our Chief Grease Monkey) and 7 stokers were able to participate in a most enjoyable track session at Brooksbank.

It really is a superb purpose made circuit; one we should endeavour to use more.

Great to welcome new stoker, Connor, to Trekkers.

Lesson learned. Do not plan popular rides on bank holiday weekends!

For the seven tandems who were out and about today, things couldn’t have gone much smoother. Alas, pilot shortage, doubtless affected by the plans other volunteers had made, meant that a total of nine stokers were unable to join what was a thoroughly enjoyable few hours.

Surprise of the day was that the decibels Judith’s laughter generates was somewhat eclipsed this morning by the volume of Lou’s sneezes. You really ought to see a doctor, Lou!

Never mind the quantity …. it’s the quality that really counts. Oh … and the sunshine.

There may have only been five tandems out today, but for the ten Trekkers tootling up the Greenway, there was no better way to enjoy a beautifully calm and sunny morning.

It’s always encouraging to see new pilots out riding, and today Shaun and Jean were with us once more. Thanks both – you were great.

Here’s hoping weather like today’s, persists through the summer.

Chapeau to whoever ordered today’s weather. Low twenties, and a very slight breeze, enabled 16 Trekkers to reap the benefits of another brilliant day, cycling a 24 mile, largely traffic free route, from Glasson Dock, returning via Morecambe.

Of course, no Trekkers ride is complete without a cafe stop. And, as is the norm, The Stone Jetty Cafe excelled themselves – wheeling out extra tables and chairs so that we could all sit together and thoroughly soak up some lunchtime sun.

Great to see Julie and Cashel piloting for us and to meet Michael’s Gran, Rosemary.

There’s lots of fantastic photos on the chat, so here are a few you’ve not yet seen.

Only five pilots and four stokers out this morning. Anyone would think it was a bank holiday weekend, or there was trouble with the trains.

But for those who did attend, a thoroughly enjoyable blast around a great circuit – despite a couple of communication problems with the organisers.

14 Trekkers on 7 tandems, together with 3 from our friends at Beech Holme, not forgetting the 4 accompanying solos, had a gander across the Humber Bridge and back.

22 miles in total – not to mention several thousand calories. An absolutely amazing route and one which will be further extended to around 33 miles later in the season. Watch this space.

Numbers see-sawed today. From the traditional too few pilots, to enjoying the benefit of two junction marking solo riders.

Highlights of today’s Drew led gander up the Greenway, involving six tandems and the aforementioned two solos, included new pilot Shaun and Collette learning they are related and Barney’s quip about Paul : “I wouldn’t disagree with his need for therapy!” A comment born from an inability to read clearly visible lettering and later accentuated by the handicap of replacing a conical skewer spring on back to front. Don’t ask!

Finally a hat tip to Sustrans who have all but finished resurfacing the northern section of the track with lovely smooth tarmac. It’s a joy to ride.

Our first visit to this superb purpose built cycle track on the south side of Bradford.

Making the most of a very sunny (but bitingly cold) evening were 15 Trekkers including Shaun and Jean, joining us for the first time as Pilots.

Thanks to everyone who made this inaugural midweek session so successful.

It just got better.

The last Stevie led ride round Ripon was remarkable. A ride to relish. Today’s additional six mile loop, up towards Fountains Abbey, proved to be the icing on the eight participating tandem’s cake.

And when someone suggested an extra coffee stop at the Visitor’s Centre, even the threat of inclement weather failed to dampen a welcome pause in the cycling proceedings.

And if the solo cyclist on the return to Ripon is reading this ….. overtaking tandems on straight downhill sections is never a good idea. It only serves to create a challenge. One you will lose. And you did! By a substantial margin.

Amazing. The sun shone, the breeze was light and not a drop of rain.

24 Trekkers on 11 Tandems and 2 Solos matched our largest ever Penistone turnout. But unlike days gone by, when we would simply convoy up to Dunford Bridge, Ride Leader Barney’s “Freedom Pass” to travel at your own pace either down towards Wharncliffe Woods or the more traditional Dunford Bridge and back, meant most bikes clocked a total of just over 18 miles travelling in both directions.

One of these days we’ll hit the trail after a spell of dry weather and will be able to travel down beyond Oxspring Tunnel, and well into the woods. But as many seasoned cyclists know, once the tarmac ends the trail gets particularly muddy. And even keeping to the tarmac, all bikes returned decidedly muckkier (if that’s a word) than when we set off.

Encouraging to see Pilot Julie and Stokers Mark W and Vicki on their maiden route ride with us. You all did really well and we’re looking forward to pedalling many more miles with you as the season progresses.

Yes – it was a good ride.

Today’s write up is easy. I’m simply going to repeat a selection of the post ride quips appearing on our chat. And add a few photos.….

“Thank you all for a lovely sunny ride. 🌻Especially my bubble of sunshine, Judith” – Kathryn.

“You were half of that bubble spreading laughter and levity along the Greenway!” – Ian P (to Kathryn).

“Thank you Ian P for being a great pilot today, especially following Judith & Kathryn on the way back it was laughter all the way back. 🤣🤣🚴‍♀” – Richard

“Great ride, nice and sunny morning , and thanks to my partner Ian for pedalling as fast as we could in the same gear for the whole ride..🤣. Tough going but we did it.” – Simon W.

“Thanks all for a great ride and especially to Simon 🙂 also big thanks to Paul and Judith for their technical expertise when the chain kept falling off our bike 🙂 we managed to the café and back in one gear, which was an adventure” – Ian B.

“Great to be back out riding with Trekkers after what seems like a long wet if not particularly cold winter. My thanks to Aisha for being my trusty stoker. See you all again soon.” – Stephen De.

“I’ve really missed Trekkers over the last few months, so it was so nice to get back out there! Thank you for your wonderful company Steve D. Looking forward to the rest of the season…” – Aisha.

This morning’s forecast was only half right; it was cold, but it wasn’t wet. And that meant that 13 Trekkers were able to don suitable cycling thermals, and join our inaugural 2024 track session, as our new season finally got underway.

A metaphorical (if not literal) warm welcome to new pilots Barry and Julie, as well as stoker Michael, together with husband and wife Mark and Vicki, who joined us for their first meeting following their taster session in York. “Better than riding around a car park” aptly commented Vicki.

She wasn’t wrong!

If you ever thought that when Trekkers weren’t riding, they weren’t up to much, it’s time to think again.

We’ve already blogged about our Maintenance Day and our Christmas Social. But recent days have seen Trekkers learning to mend and tend to our tandems, receiving an award, getting blind drunk and preparing to pedal.

From our own correspondents (warning this is quite a long post):

Mending and Tending – Barney (Chief Grease Monkey)

10th February 24 – A first for Trekkers, a tandem specific maintenance course, based loosely on the Level 2 course you can take for upright bikes, delivered in house by a bloke who spends most of his cycling life lying down.

Seven participants plus Barney as tutor took part in the course which was hands on based on our Orbit Tandems and their specific parts and anatomy.

Everybody got dirty hands and had a chance to open up and play with the tools from inside the ride leader packs. Judith even stripped and refitted a mechanical disk brake!

As ever Trekkers made the most of the lunch stop with much raucous chatter.

All participants arrived home safe and sound after a proper session of grease monkey experience (and cold feet).

We’ll hopefully get some appreciation from British Cycling as part of their Limitless programme. But irrespective of outside recognition, we’ll probably run another session in the Autumn.

Award – Drew (Trekker’s Treasurer and part-time Clothing Model)

23rd February 24 – Celebrating the first anniversary of their Limitless Programme, British Cycling invited Trekkers to the Manchester Velodrome to receive a plaque, in recognition of having achieved Focus Club status. A buffet lunch, and the ability to watch some of the National Track Championships, 0nly served to make the invitation more appealing.

Representing Trekkers, our four attendees were Aisha, Judith, Barney and myself.

Arriving in sunny Manchester there seemed to be an inordinate number of policemen about the place and, upon enquiring if they were expecting riots from aggrieved track cyclists, we were informed that Royal personages were expected for the event!

This was news; I hadn’t even bothered to shave! But luckily I was modelling our new club jersey design which had co-incidentally just arrived the day before, so was at least properly attired to meet Royalty…. that being Edward and Sophie, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.

Along with representatives of ICE Trikes and Stockton Wheelers, Aisha and I were introduced to both the Duke and Duchess and had ‘a bit of a chat’ before the Duchess presented the award.

Following the ceremony, Barney and Judith also met the Duchess. Maybe we should ask HRH to become OUR patron…..just a thought.

Blind Drunk – Brittany (ex- Chair and Trustee)

23rd February – We just wrapped up another unforgettable edition of Blind Drunk, the annual wine tasting event hosted by Jennifer, Steve, and their incredible family. This year’s gathering was nothing short of amazing, leaving everyone buzzing with excitement and fond memories to cherish.

Our chairperson, Steve, summed it up perfectly when he called it an “absolute blast.” And boy, was he right! From the moment the event kicked off, there was an electric atmosphere of joy and camaraderie that enveloped everyone in attendance.

One of the most delightful aspects of Blind Drunk is witnessing the tight-knit community of tandem trekkers coming together. While the event celebrates the love for wine, it’s also a beautiful showcase of the strong bonds forged among these adventurous souls. Even away from the tandem bikes, the spirit of togetherness and support shines through, creating an atmosphere that is truly magical.

Of course, we must extend a massive thank you to Michael, Lily, and Katlyn for their exceptional hosting skills. Their warm welcome, attention to detail, and impeccable hospitality made Blind Drunk an experience to remember. We raise our glasses to you! We don’t ask where Jack was… 😂

To all the amazing individuals who joined us this year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your presence added an extra sparkle to the event, and we couldn’t have asked for a better group to share this experience with.

As the echoes of laughter and clinking glasses fade, we eagerly look ahead to our next adventure as the Tandem Trekkers is soon upon us.

Thank you once again to everyone who came along and to Jennifer and Steve. Cheers, and see you on the tandems next weekend! 🚲🍷

Preparing to Pedal – Paul

24th February 24 – After standing undisturbed for three months, it was time to get our trailers and tandems all set for the season ahead. Barney and Keith, ably hindered by Paul, checked the lights and tyres on both trailers applying Grease and GT85 as required, and tightening the odd bolt or two. Attention then turned bike-wards. A reported issue on one tandem required all headsets to be checked (and stripped down were required) before every tyre – and that’s without exception – was pumped up to the recommended 80 psi.

We’re now officially ready to roll.

It was always going to be a nail-biter. Billed as “Pilot’s Revenge”, would this year’s Christmas quiz fulfil the desire of our front-seat riders to level the score? Would it be pay back time for having suffered the narrowest of Stoker defeats, by a mere single point, at the Lancaster residential?

The tension was tangible; the silence surreal. And then, 29 questions later, the verdict was in. They’d cracked it. Though the 23-21 score was initially contested, the challenge was dismissed on appeal, and the Pilot’s victory upheld.

But both before and after intellects were tested, fun, laughter and camaraderie flowed through the house in buckets. As several Trekkers put it, on a ride conversations are largely restricted to whoever occupies the other tandem seat. Not so at a social. In a non-riding setting you can enjoy cementing friendships with lots of cycling companions.

Rounding off the evening, live entertainment, courtesy of our very own Ukulele playing trio, brought the curtain down on another cracking Christmas Social.

Here’s to 2024. May it provide many more happy memories and laughs.

Merry Christmas everyone….

There are two kinds of warmth in life.

The first is that provided by the sun. And there wasn’t much of that about at this morning’s annual maintenance session. The mercury struggled to get above zero. The second sort is that which flows from friendships and other close relationships. And this type of warmth was present in abundant measure at Trekker’s HQ.

Under the watchful eye of our Chief Grease Monkey, Barney, fourteen hardy members got stuck in, washing and oiling our fleet of seventeen tandems as well as sorting out a handful of necessary adjustments and tweaks. We also lubbed up four additional tandems, now earmarked for disposal.

With a background of festive music, copious quantities of light refreshments and the unmistakable scent of GT85, the camaraderie and laughter reminded me once again of the privilege it truly is to be a part of this amazing group of very special people…..even if the water did freeze as soon as it touched the bike frames.

Thanks to everyone who made the effort and to those who expressed a willingness to help out. A special mention to Katie who, despite her train getting cancelled, successfully navigated her way to join us.

And finally, thanks to our very own “Father Trekker”, who aged 85 demonstrated a youthful enthusiasm, test riding several tandems before they were hibernated away.

Sometimes, knowing what to post when providing a write-up, can be taxing. But not today. Because this account isn’t the one that was planned.

It should have all been about what an absolutely fabulous finale to our 2023 season, today’s ride around Ripon, was. And indeed, it was. Thanks to Stevie for a thorough recce – and for leading the ride so well.

It was also going to contain details of how twenty Trekkers, layered up against the cold, enjoyed a brand new, delightful route, under a cloudless sky, blessed with dazzling, if not somewhat blinding, winter sun. And that’s all true.

It was planned to include special mentions of Dave T, back from a TT sabbatical, and Lyndsay, a stoker from our recent appearance at the York Sight Loss Council Open Day. And it was also going to also provide a thank you to Tim D, for helping us out once more. Again, no word of a lie.

And, how remiss it would have been, for the account not to have given thanks to absolutely every single Trekker who made the day so enjoyable. And, “enjoyable” is playing it down. Drastically so. For, in truth, it was a ride to relish and remember.

So, what’s with the cryptic undertone?

Short version: Car keys slipped from unzipped pocket one mile from start of ride. Were surprisingly found later. Didn’t work. Spare set brought from base. All ended well.

Longer version: “What was that metal sound”, Stoker Lyndsay to Pilot Paul. “Not sure – but the bike’s running fine and I can’t think of anything that could have fallen off”. Conclusion – there must have been something metallic, lying in the road, and we just ran over it. Let’s keep going. 

About 2.5 hours later. Paul “I can’t find my car keys!” Someone in crowd (sceptical tones) “Are you sure? Check all your pockets. [Note to reader: Gilet and Winter Cycling Jacket = lots of pockets, mostly zipped.] No, definitely not here. Hang on…. wait a minute …. you don’t suppose that clinking sound, shortly after we set off, could possibly be my keys falling on to the road?”

Opting to investigate, Drew, endowed with a spirt of optimism, “Let’s go look”. So, Drew and Paul set off, on a tandem, on the same route ridden earlier in the day. Not particularly hopeful of a successful retrieval, but deciding it was definitely worth a punt. And guess what. The earlier referred to clank must have been the said keys falling from a pocket, because, just over a mile from our start off point – there they were – lying on the road: the lost keys.

The normal response should have been euphoric. And, indeed, there was a measure of relief, tinged with unbelief and thankfulness. But, sadly, holding the ecstatic response in check were visible indications the dropped keys had been damaged. Probably, run over. Possibly, functionally incapacitated beyond immediate repair. (FIBIR).

And whatever collective optimism there might have been, a digital refusal to respond to the button press on Drew and Paul’s return, rendered all belief in a salvageable situation, redundant. 

What were we to do?

Having determined that neither the AA, nor even the SAS, were viable solutions, there was, alas, only one workable possibility. Drive back to base in another Trekker vehicle, pick up a spare key, return to Boroughbridge, and redeem the predicament.

And so, in conclusion, VC’s are hereby awarded to the aforementioned Dave T and Drew. Dave T for shepherding a rather hapless Paul back to base, and Drew for magnanimously volunteering to drink copious amounts of coffee in Boroughbridge, awaiting Paul’s return, and then offering to ferry his car home.

The above “Short Version” ended with the words: “All ended well.”

And so too does this version!

No fewer than 20 Trekkers on today’s pen-ultimate ride of 2023, up our local Greenway.

That was nine tandems and a couple of solos. Indeed, solos are always a welcome addition to any ride. The ability to mark junctions and generally manoeuvre more fluidly, a much appreciated bonus.

Making the most of a dry, and surprisingly mild November morning, we were joined by Rick and Stuart, two new pilots on their first non-track ride. Another bonus.

And the final bonus mention of the day goes to the ever smiling Hayley at the Flower Pot. How she managed to serve us all so efficiently – and not get flustered – amazing!!!!

Quite possibly the best ride of the year! And quite definitely the outing with the fewest attendees – sadly savoured by just two tandems and a solo. But for the five Trekkers who crossed over to the Red Rose County, a ride to remember.

Despite rain curtailing today’s track session, fourteen Trekkers made the most of a rather damp morning.

Brightening up proceedings was the arrival of three new pilots (Stewart, Liz and Claudia) and two new stokers (Isobel and Lorraine). Lovely to meet you all and we sincerely hope that you’ll be able to join us on some of our upcoming rides.

That said, there’s just three more outings before we hibernate our bikes for the winter.

Here’s hoping the weather is bit drier for our remaining rides.

DETAILED REPORT BY OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT DREW MANN (aka ANONYMOUSE).

The day dawned (well I’m not sure there was any dawn at 07.00…) foggy and damp in Wibsey. 

Only three at the lock up this morning, Simon, Drew (hereafter the “author”) and Steve D the towman of trailers for today. Six tandems were required and six were loaded and ready to go – so we went…

More fog in Queensbury, where whilst stopped at the lights by Tesco, some bloke knocked on the car window and said “One of your tandems is falling off”. Cue panic and a detour into Black Dyke Mills Yard for an inspection that revealed no such thing…perhaps it was an October Fool….

Arrived safely in JD Tandems’ carpark at the same time as the rest of day’s crew were arriving. Car park more full than usual as someone has apparently opened a baked goods stall in the corner of the yard, of which more later…

Usual unloading and faffing was done and as Muz and Tariq had brought their own SPD pedals with them (which apparently they have both bought from some shifty geezer in a previous car park for a totally bargain price, mate) someone was told off to remove the basic pairs from the relevant tandems and fit the SPDs. 

The author was getting a bit peckish at this point and so detoured to the stall in the corner where he purchased a bacon, cheese and onion quiche (individual size) which turned out to be very splendid indeed.

Strolling back to the group there was the sudden discovery that whoeverit was that had been assigned to add SPD pedals, whilst managing a perfectly fine job on one tandem had, for reasons unknown put one SPD on one side at the front and the other on the other side at the back on the second tandem! Much hilarity and it seems that no-one knew who had actually done this….hmm.

I would have taken a picture but I was too busy rolling on the floor, holding my sides and guffawing…

Chaos was averted – and after a quick briefing from the leader we were off on the Gargrave circuit in the sensible Drew clockwise manner – to avoid riding up Nappa Bank on the way home.

The idea was that the leader would lead from the front but it soon became apparent that everyone was going to go up the hills more rapidly than the leader and his valiant stoker so the Author and Martin watched as five tandems disappeared into the distance. 

This apparent desire to ride away from the author lead to our only “issue” of the day when we lost Louise and Jules. The fast lads had taken the turn down to Halton East without waiting and Louise and Jules had got behind to the point where they didn’t see them go left and thus carried straight on.

The author and stoker were even further behind and arriving at the same turn saw nothing except wet tyre marks in the road and went after them unaware that there were no longer five machines in front. A regrouping did then occur at the far side of Halton West and the “leader” was bemused by being asked where the ladies were as he though everyone remained in front. 

By the miracle of wireless telephone it was determined that the ladies were still on the main road at the Long Preston junction and so were instructed to proceed into the village and take the left to Wigglesworth. This meant that they beat the main group to the café in the end as it’s a straight line and we were going the long way round!

Anyway, the usual excellent fare and service at the village hall saw six well-fed teams depart for the return trip. 

Nothing terribly exciting happened on the return except when we turned off the main road on to the tiny grass-grown lane to Hellifield where the slight rise from the turn was covered in thick mud causing several crews to lose traction and put a foot down but no one actually did any falling down due to the cunning and skill of the captains and crews concerned. 

We avoided any rain and any fog and indeed by the time we got back it was nearly bright! Although the temperature remained at 6o day it was not really cold. Rain was encountered on the drive home but we didn’t care about that.

If you thought all cycle seat posts were a standardised diameter, you thought wrong.

Today’s fabulous ride, involving an impressive total of 14 tandems (including 5 bikes from our friends at Beech Holme) circumnavigating the highways and byways that wheel around Stamford Bridge, started with a slight mechanical. One seat post clamp failed (see picture) and needed replacing.

Not a problem; or so we thought. Each ride leader pack carries a spare; it’s an easy fix.

Well the remedy would have been straight forward if all our bikes had standard sized posts. Alas, the cracked clamp was smaller than our two on-hand replacements. An attempted bodge, using tape as a packing medium, failed. What were we to do? It looked as if we’d be a bike down.

But we weren’t going to be side saddled that easily.

Stamford Bridge might not have a bike shop, but fortuitously, it is home to Mark B. And in Mark’s shed were several cycles. And, on the first bike we saw, was just what we so desperately needed. A correctly sized clamp.

So, after a quick visit to the aforementioned shed we were soon pedalling away.

….. and were soon reminded why this ride is an absolute delight …. despite the road closure, which provided an end of route option which added a few extra miles; though for those of us with more demanding appetites, the lure of a more immediate sarnie proved too enticing, necessitating a straight run back to the car park.

Hard to say who stole this morning’s show the most. Barney’s two recumbents or his Guide Dog in training, Espee. But whether it was the laid back pedal machines or the pup, both contributed to another great track session; even if the promised sunshine got clouded out.

Contributing to the morning’s enjoyment, we were delighted to welcome Richard F., a new pilot and work colleague of Tom G.

Mentioning Tom, it would be remiss not to mention that even after a period of absence, he still managed to pilot the winning slow race tandem. Though, in truth, it was probably all down to Elisa’s experience!

And rounding off today’s meeting, a bystander Andy was so taken with what we do he’s just donated £20.00 to our funds.

If you’re reading this Andy, THANK YOU 👍

Another super Saturday sortie.

Six tandems and a solo, sunny weather, calm winds, brilliant banter infused with lots of laughter and all finished off with relaxing post ride refreshments. What’s not to like?

It’s days like today that makes riding with Trekkers such a delight. Long may the fun continue.

You only realise how good Schwalbe Marathon tyres are when the countless miles of puncture free riding undertaken is finally disrupted. But the glass shard Tim and Ian collected on their way back to HQ was a timely reminder of why cyclists always carry spare tubes.

Otherwise, for seven tandems escorted by a couple of solos, it was another thoroughly delightful cruise to Low Moor and back. The return punctuated only by the aforementioned flat and the mandated coffee stop at the Flowerpot cafe.

It was a pleasure to have Ali ride with us once again after several months absence and to meet Louise’s partner, Dan at the Flowerpot. Accompanied by three tail-wagging four legged friends, an instant friendship was forged between them and Drew. I think the bacon titbits might have played a part in cementing the relationship.

And a ride in which Barney participates normally includes a memorable quote or two. Today’s gem: “Jules is learning how to use SPD’s. She’s also learning a lot of new swear words!”

What an absolutely amazing weekend; I really don’t know where to begin telling everyone how wonderful it was … despite Pilots losing Saturday’s quiz by a single point.

But, thankfully, I don’t have to think too hard. The flurry of appreciative comments, flooding our WhatsApp chats are really making my life much simpler. And if you’re a TT member, and you’re eager to catch glimpses of the magical moments we experienced, then that’s where you’ll find them.

But for our friends who aren’t (yet) fully subscribed to Tandem Trekkers, here are just three thoughts, harvested from the aforementioned chats:

“Thanks everyone 😊 I think we’re the funniest cycling club 😆 what a great laugh! I had a fabulous weekend with great friends – thanks StephenD and JoanneD and Paul. Thanks to my ace stokers Jules and Elisa who are a joy to ride with! I’m sure I’ll suffer with “mini-holiday” blues. Also not sure who did the route scouting but both routes were ace!” – Judith

“It is very hard to express how grateful I am and how wonderful it has been this weekend. First of all a big thank you to Joanne and Steve who did the organising. Thanks to Louise and Charles for being my pilots and getting me safely there and back, and the wonderful company. To Judith for making me laugh like I haven’t laughed in a long time. To Kate for kindly giving me a lift home. When I would’ve had to catch a replacement bus from Mirfield, you went above and beyond. To everyone else who made it a brilliant time, thank you. I want to put my name down as well for next year.😀😀” – Kathryn

“Well what a wonderful lot you all are, a fantastic weekend with great fun all round 😊 Thanks to everyone behind the scenes who was in involved with the organising (accommodation, planing and checking out ride routes, leading rides etc) Thanks to Ahmed for the extra pedalling up the hills today and listening me ramble on about food, to Martin who yesterday had to put up with my potty-mouthed rants (whoops 😂) and to all the rest of you over the weekend for the great company, warmth and laughs.” – Kate

I think the only thing I would want to add is that we all owe a massive THANK YOU to Disability Rights UK, without whose financial support, sourced from the Together Fund, this weekend wouldn’t have been possible.

Here’s to TT Residential 2024!!!!

We smashed it!

Trekkers target of collectively riding 100 miles in an hour was kicked well and truly out of the park. Adding the total laps together, the final tally for the 12 bikes came to a massive 703 laps or 176 miles. That translates to an average speed over the 60 minutes of just shy of 15 mph per tandem. And whilst some bikes would have been at the lower end of the spectrum, others were cruising north of 20mph in order for the cumulative number to have settled where it did.

And the cycling figures don’t stop there. Equally impressive are the much needed funds raised. At the time of writing, our bank account looks set to benefit from almost £1500 in sponsorship money, supplemented by approaching £100 in cake sales.

Little wonder then that the post ride atmosphere was positively buzzing. How could it be anything else after such an electrifying performance, both physically and financially.

Well done Trekkers. You did us all proud👍.

Being completely traffic free, and with no turns, the Pennine Trail, starting from Penistone, offers Trekkers a unique opportunity; the ability for bikes to ride at their own pace and cover up to 18 picturesque miles.

Setting off towards Wharncliffe Woods or choosing to head up to Dunford Bridge first, eight tandems and a solo dodged the rain before congregating back at Julie’s Cafe and partaking in what must be Yorkshire’s largest and best value for money fayre.

Another excellent ride.

When asked, many Trekkers say that their favourite ride is the Gargrave Loop. So it was a little surprising that only 5 tandems were able to enjoy the undulating 24 miles that begin and end in the North Yorkshire village of Gargrave. But, then again, we are slap bang in the middle of holiday season, when other commitments traditionally loom large.

Nevertheless, for the 10 who ventured out, a brilliant ride on what is one of our more taxing routes.

Sustenance at the halfway point was available courtesy of Wigglesworth Community Centre, and start and finish facilities were provided by our good friends at JD Tandems, suppliers of over 90% of our entire fleet.

The quote of the day award goes to Muz. Climbing Nappa Bank, the most challenging day’s ascent, he sensed his tandem might be pipped to the crest by Mark and Graham. Full afterburner power was applied, startling his pilot. “Sorry” said Muz … “I couldn’t be beaten to the top. I have my reputation to protect.”

Well Muz, consider it protected!

As promised, an overview of our second of the day’s events:

HOW MANY: 12 Trekkers split into 6 pairs sharing 3 tandems, all learning to ride the aptly named “wall of death.”

WHO: Judith & Richard, Steve & Muz, Charles & Chris D, Sam & Lynda, Mark & Graham, Barney & Tariq.

OVERVIEW: Everyone made it round in split shifts, learned to cleat, start and stop and eventually all the way up to riding on to the high boards.

THRILLS AND SPILLS: A couple of minor mishaps, but no blood spilt. First of the afternoon was Muz & Steve who managed to mis-time their first ever attempt at a rail grab resulting in a close up visual inspection of the concrete. Not to be outclassed, Judith & Richard then went for an unceremonious, unscheduled, and instantaneous dismount after politely avoiding a crash with a novice solo rider, resulting in an argument with the fairies of the great gravitational force. All an integral part of the adventure and well done everyone.

APRES VELO: All off to the Harvester for sustenance.