Folders to the fore

The Folding Society, for those interested in folding cycles, organises  ‘Origami Rides’ around the Midlands. Local cyclists might like to note that July 12th sees their ride start from Great Malvern rail station, 10.30am. Then on September 13th they set off from Ledbury. Rides are relatively short – about 25 miles?

Check the Origami web page for more details.

Fruity and fun rides for Bike Week

Our two Bike Week cycle rides are now listed on the official Bike Week website.

• Sunday 22nd June, morning South east, about 15 miles total.
• Tuesday 17th June, evening North, about 15 miles (extra on request).

Today, on checking the route for the Sunday ride (approx 15 miles with a stop at Clive’s Fruit Farm for coffee and cake), the road south from Hanley Swan is covered in loose chippings, with large drifts in places. This could be rather dangerous, causing bike riders to skid or get hit by a stone if motorists don’t behave sensibly. With more resurfacing due to take place in the area, the route may change slightly to avoid this as much as possible.

I’m also thinking of putting on a beginners ride to Hanley Swan for a picnic on the first Saturday (14th June). Food should also be available from the pub and village shop. Less than 5 miles there and a good rest before the return. Will depend on it being a nice day, but anyone interested? A late morning start, so you can do your Saturday shop/laundry/DIY etc beforehand!

Do note that these are leisurely social rides, not races. Please make sure your bicycle is in good condition – check the brakes work at least!

You can leave a private (or public) comment here.

UPDATE – The Saturday 14th ride is confirmed – meet 11.30am at Prospect View Health Centre. Children to be accompanied by an adult please.

Hi to Malvern Red

A new bunch of younger cyclists has got together for cycle rides under the name of Malvern Red Riders. And they are also using WordPress to let people know what’s happening.

Good to see you out there.

Playing on bicycles for Xmas

Over the Christmas and New Year period, there are one or two seasonal cycle rides from local groups. Not Cycle Malvern this year, but maybe next time?

Worcester CTC, New Year’s Day ride to the Three Kings pub, Hanley Castle. Start Malvern (presumably usual start of Link railway station) 10.00 Contact Keith Edwards, 01684 564077.

VC Sevale has its traditional Free Wheel Competition and Festive Ride to the Farmers Arms, Sunday 30th December. The competition is quite simple – roll as far as you can in the direction of Ledbury without pedalling. Meet at British Camp car park at 9.45am and the freewheeling begins at 10am from the layby about half a mile down the A449 towards Ledbury. Contact Eric on 01684 568015.

Also a Mud ride to the pub on 23rd December – see Malvern Gazette news item.

And playing about on bikes for Christmas in a different way – Specialized produced this Holiday Greetings last year, making all the sounds for the Nutcracker Suite using cycle parts.