I don't really pay too much attention to how many pages views I get on this blog but when I did have a look the other day to see how things were going, the number of views per day, week and month were probably at their highest level for years and years. I think I have gained lots of new readers, perhaps with new Brompton bikes (welcome by the way and keep reading) and one question that I have been asked more times than any other are versions of the title to this blog post.
If you read by back catalogue as it were, you will find countless post for various night rides - mainly to the coast - and I suppose I must like them a great deal as I keep going on them. I have been here before but I will try to explain why.
A night ride is rarely a spur of the moment decision and usually planned a little in advance. This build up and anticipation is something I actually enjoy too. Planning what to wear/take with you, charging the lights, making sure that the bike is match fit, all add up to making the day the ride is on different and special.
Travelling to the start location can in itself be an adventure and cycling past people, you wonder whether they would believe you if you told them you are about to cycle 60 - 70 miles starting at midnight, to return to London the next day by train.
I rarely tell people I am going on one of these rides but will do so if asked what plans I have for the weekend. Their face when I explain what I am going to do if often quite the picture. I suspect this is also part of their appeal.
The actual ride itself rarely disappoints. Cycling in the city, then the outskirts and finally the countryside is special. Often you find yourself cycling on empty, narrow country lanes, illuminated by whatever your front lights can muster.
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