Getting read for the Whitstable Winder

The Whitstable Winder - I think it is still called that - is a Brompton ride that I have been on several times over the years. The brainchild of gentleman that is and friend Mark (King of the Hill) it has always proved to be very popular and I am sure that this one will be so too.

Most people join at Otford having taken the train from Victoria. I will be joining Mark and perhaps a few others in central London just before 07:00 in the am to cycle the 26.45 miles to Otford to meet the main group of riders. Hopefully, we will get there in time for a second breakfast, like Hobbits! From there it will be another 48ish miles to Whitstable, after which we'll get the train back to London.

There is a rather tasty incline to tackle in the form of Hollingbourne Hill. It is 1.2 km long with an average gradient of 8.7% and maxing out at 16.5%. Should be interesting! I cannot really remember what I think of it - other than it is a bit of a beast - and just hope that I get up in one piece. 

The statistics

Another big draw for this ride it the rather lovely Kent countryside, which rarely disappointed. Should be a good one! So, I am now off to check the bike over make sure that I have everything I need ready.

Stay safe out there people!!

Kent countryside and a peloton of Brompton riders