Overnight ride from Cambridge to King’s Lynn on a Brompton

Last Friday, I joined the lovely Friday peeps for a ride that is a firm favourite of many, but one I had never participated in before: Cambridge to King’s Lynn. Now, let me tell you, I had been asked whether I was going on this ride for some time, but as it doesn’t start in London and getting back can take a while longer than usual, I was rather undecided. But, when Dr John and Geoff, two chaps I know all too well, confirmed they were up for the challenge, I thought, “Why not?” So, I signed up and purchased my train tickets.

Modern architecture ride on a Brompton

Last Sunday I joined the lovely Friday peeps for an architectural cycle ride in which we would be treated to some of the more modern buildings the city has to offer. Starting at the usual Hyde Park Corner we set off in good time and in weather conditions that got better as the ride progressed. I even had the time for a few touristy photos.

The inimitable Tom Carradine, master of the piano and sing-a-long!

Now this blog post has nothing to do with one of my beloved Brompton bicycles. I will not be offended if you pass this one by but it still might hold your interest if you like history, live music and a wonderful pianist, singer and near-custodian of old songs where there is often mention of bananas!

Brutal Barbican on a Brompton

I have always held quite the soft spot for Brutalist architecture, often perceived as a subject of polarising opinion - one either loves it or loathes it. I firmly belong to the former category. Throughout my relatively unchanged residence in London, I have been fortunate to be in proximity to some great examples of this architectural style. The Barbican Centre, a quintessential representation of Brutalism, has always been a favourite and epitomises the aesthetics of this genre. As you might suspect, I possess literally thousands of photographs capturing various angles, times of day and different seasons.

Quite interesting ride on my Orange Titanium Brompton - Part 2

Hello dear reader. I am glad you came back for part 2 of my recent 'Quite interesting ride on my Orange Titanium Brompton.' 

6. Myddleton Passage. Where a wall is not just a wall!

Regular readers and those of you who follow me on Instagram (you can find me on there by typing @orangebrompton) will know that I do like a brick wall to rest my Brompton and take a photo. This aspect has become a signature element in my posts. This particular wall was very different indeed.

Readers photos - keep them coming

On the main page of my blog under the photo, you will find some tabs. There is one on the right titled 'Reader Photos.'  I just wanted to give a shout out to this and to its most recent contribution from Max. (thank you Max. Lovely Brompton you have there). 

If you have any photos of your small wheeled pride and joy - new or old - please do send them to me. 

I am pretty terrible at looking at the email address on the blog but I will promise (again) to do so more often. The best way to contact me or let me know you have sent an email is to contact me via my Instagram page @orangebrompton. (Make sure you follow me if you have not already done so). 

Stay safe out there people. 

Long term review of my Brompton G-Line

It feels like an eternity since I first encountered the Brompton G-Line in person during the launch event at Brompton Junction London back in September of the previous year. Upon leaving the event, despite not having taken one for a test ride — that opportunity arose a few days later — I had an inkling that it would be an ideal fit for me. Subsequently, I placed an order, and just prior to Christmas 2024, it was delivered. I have utilised it almost exclusively since its arrival and have covered several hundred miles. I deemed it an appropriate moment to proffer my long-term assessment of the bicycle, so here goes.

Launch event

Ride Quality 

I have never had anything adverse to say about my smaller-wheeled Brompton bicycles and have quite happily navigated the most treacherous roads in London and beyond without issue. I have accomplished rides exceeding 100 miles on my smaller-wheeled Brompton bikes and have been thoroughly satisfied. However, the G-Line elevates the experience.

The combination of the larger 20-inch wheels, wider handlebars, and the riding position all contribute to a comfortable experience. It seems that nothing can unsettle the G-Line. Potholes, cobbles, gravel, grass, canal towpaths, riverside tracks, country lanes (the list is extensive) are effortlessly tackled. The 'G' in G-Line could also stand for 'glide'; it truly glides along with grace. I did not acquire the G-Line for rugged gravel riding or for that absurdity of carrying tents and bin bags to sleep outdoors like a Sociology teacher in the early 1980s! I procured it for adventures in and around London, and while I recognise it is also excellent for occasional off-road riding, it is splendid for the activities I get up to.

Size and folded package

I do not reside far from the tube line, but I can also choose to cycle into central London if I so desire. Since acquiring my G-Line, I have utilised the tube more than I have for some time. I intended to ascertain what it was like at as many different times of the day as possible. I have not encountered any significant issues when navigating my G-Line on or off the tube or trains; however, it is a heavier bicycle and has a larger folded package. My regular Brompton bicycles are more appropriate for this, as they are lighter (my Brompton Electric is approximately the same weight as the G-Line). If I were to use public transport regularly as part of my commute, the standard-sized Brompton might be a more advantageous option.

Cycling over greater distances

The furthest I have cycled so far on my G-Line is just shy of 80 miles. I have not experienced any ill effects from this, and rides of 40 to 60 miles are handled with ease. As I mentioned, its riding position is very good, which contributes to the overall ride quality. However, I would like to offer one caveat: I swapped the off-road Schwalbe One tyres for Continental Urban tyres. For me, this instantly improved the ride on the road. They rolled better, allowing me to pedal with less effort and at a higher speed. Consequently, this made longer rides more enjoyable. I am not sure that I would want to take my G-Line on a 60-mile nocturnal adventure using the off-road tyres that come as standard with the bike.

Gearing

The G-Line comes equipped with a 54-tooth chainring and an Alfine 8-speed hub, ensuring that gear changes are executed swiftly through the up and down shifters. In my experience, I have found the G-Line to be very similar to my traditional Brompton bikes, which feature a 44-tooth chainring and 6 speeds. Notably, the G-Line demonstrates comparable—if not slightly superior—performance on inclines, likely attributable to its larger diameter tyres and more favourable riding position. On level terrain, while its performance is very good, I perceive that I can attain slightly higher speeds on my standard Brompton bikes. Nevertheless, it is important to clarify that my cycling is not competitive, and the G-Line's gearing functions effectively for my needs.

Brakes 

The G-Line comes with disc brakes and they certainly help you stop. I have not had any particular issues with the brakes on my normal Brompton bicycles but the addition of disc brakes is certainly a welcome addition. They require only the slightest of touches and have proved to be particularly useful when descending steep inclines on country lanes. Also very useful in areas of London with dog walkers, tourists and influencers! 

Cost

It is worth noting that the G-Line carries a significant price premium compared to the standard Brompton. For the same investment, one could opt for the lighter P-Line. Ultimately, the decision hinges on the frequency with which one must navigate stairs in underground stations. Personally, I regard the G-Line as a worthy investment; I have utilised it more than any of my other Brompton bikes. Despite contemplating a change, I constantly find myself returning to the G-Line.

That something you can't put your finger on

All of my Brompton make me happy (and sometimes elicit the same from passers-by), yet there is an undeniable charm about the G-Line. The ride experience is exceptional; it glides almost silently, offers comfort, and performs admirably on uneven surfaces or, dare I mention, off-road. I have acquaintances who champion the electric version, providing an option for those in need of additional assistance. While G-Line is heavier, boasts a larger folded size, and lacks the agility of my standard Brompton, I cannot envision my cycling life without the G-Line now that it has become part of my fleet.

Well, there you have it dear reader. I am sure that you will see my G-Line appear in many more adventures over the next few months and yes I am rather fond of it. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

Quite interesting ride on my Orange Titanium Brompton - Part 1

Last Sunday, I went on the sixth version of the ‘Quite Interesting Ride’ series, which is the brainchild of the gentleman that is, Ross. Regrettably, this was to be the last of his rides of this type, but that didn’t deter me from attending, even with the forecast predicting near-constant rain (more on that later)! After all, skin is waterproof!

The ride started near London Bridge station, and I had to resort to using several tube lines to get there on time. As you know, dear reader, I am not the biggest fan of public transport, but I steeled myself for the worst and got there in the end.

With that challenge behind me, I dusted off my trusty Orange Titanium Brompton for this occasion. (I wasn't keen on getting my G-Line or Brompton Electric wet)! Initially, riding one of my small-wheeled Brompton after such a long hiatus felt a bit odd - for about two minutes, that is. Once I found my rhythm, I was absolutely loving the ride. There’s something freeing about zipping around on a Brompton, even in drizzly conditions!

The premise of the ride was simple. We would visit 15 interesting locations covering roughly 15 miles of gentle cycling. It was a perfect opportunity to soak in the history of London. As we set off, each stop promised unique views and stories.

In this blog post, I will cover the first five locations. The rest will follow at a later date - when I have more time to write them. Keep an eye out for those. 

1. The Royal Exchange - Giant Grasshopper weathervane

The grasshopper was the emblem of Tudor financier, Sir Thomas Gresham. He founded the first Royal Exchange in 1565, establishing a vital hub for commerce. Moreover, he set up Gresham College, which delights audiences to this day with engaging public lectures. The grasshopper appears on top of the Royal Exchange building and also elsewhere in the City. 

But here’s a whimsical twist: it is said that Thomas’s ancestor, Roger de Gresham, was abandoned as a small child in the marshy parts of Norfolk. What a spot to be left! Remarkably, little Roger was eventually discovered by a lady, intriguingly drawn to the sound of a chirruping grasshopper. Now, whether this sound came from a genuine grasshopper or if young Roger was simply wailing like one remains a mystery. Perhaps it’s more likely that the tale springs from an old pun connecting Gresh and grass! Either way, it adds flavour to the Gresham legacy.

2. Fine wooden doors at 23 Cornhill. 

This location was once the headquarters of the Cornhill Insurance Company, an establishment rich in history. 

The mahogany doors, designed by the esteemed Sir Walter Gilbert in 1939, are the highlight. He was quite the noteworthy figure, also responsible for the façade at Selfridges on Oxford Street and the gates of Buckingham Palace.

The intricate carvings on the doors catch the eye, each illustrating significant events that have shaped the area over time. They serve as a visual narrative, linking the past to the present. The doors are rather lovely and stand as a testament to the craftsmanship of their time, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the stories they tell. Saying that, I have passed them countless times and never given them a second glance. It is only thanks to this ride that I know they existed at all!

3. Mercer's Maiden

This carving in Covent Garden is the symbol of the Mercer’s Guild and signifies their ownership, appearing on several buildings across London. While there are a few in Covent Garden, this mid-16th century example is uniquely set into the wall of a newer building. The Mercers originally specialised in fancy textiles and were the foremost guild in London, playing a significant role in the city’s commercial history.

4. St Lawrence Jewry, Gresham Street. (Another weathervane). 

The original church was built here in the 12th century but was destroyed in the Great Fire of London of 1666. It was subsequently rebuilt to the design of Sir Christopher Wren, renowned for his masterpiece, St Paul's Cathedral. However, this architectural tale is merely the backdrop to a much more intriguing...disturbing story.

St Lawrence, born in 225, served as a Christian deacon in Rome. His unwavering faith drew the ire of the Roman Prefect, who ordered a gridiron to be prepared, with hot coals seething beneath it. Yes, as one might surmise, St Lawrence was placed atop the gridiron - what a chilling fate and what a way to go! Ironically, he is honoured as the Patron Saint of individuals who work with fire. To add a layer of absurdity, he is also the Patron Saint of comedians. This latter designation may stem from the legend that, in defiance of his impending martyrdom, St Lawrence is alleged to have boldly declared, "I’m done on this side!"

5. The Castle pub, Farringdon.

The Castle pub, adorned with the distinctive three brass balls on its sign, both outside and inside, is renowned for its unique status as a pawnbroker. The origins of this unusual designation trace back to an incident involving a gentleman who, having suffered considerable losses at a nearby cockfight, probably up the road in Clerkenwell, sought assistance at the Castle Pub. In need of immediate funds, he implored the landlord to advance him some cash, offering his gold pocket watch as collateral. The landlord acquiesced, and soon after, a royal employee reclaimed the watch with a cash payment. The gentleman with the watch was in fact George IV. This transaction resulted in the landlord receiving a Royal Warrant, thereby officially permitting the Castle to operate as a pawnbroker. Consequently, it stands as the only pub in England with such a privilege. In contrast, if one finds themselves financially bereft at your local Wetherspoons, exchanging a bicycle for cash would be an improbable endeavour!

Well, that is you lot for now. Many thanks to Ross for all his research and effort into these rides. They are quite simply brilliant. There will be more in a future blog post so keep an eye for it. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

Meeting up with my Partner in Crime

It has been far too long since I went out for a cycle ride with my Partner in Crime, so early last week we arranged to go for one of our favoured routes that we have been on countless times before.

We met at the London Eye and were soon off in an easterly direction. Our first port of call however was to stop off for a quick hot drink and snack. Feeling suitably refreshed we continued. It didn’t take long for us to catch up on what we had been up to. 

My Partner in Crime has recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer. When I found out about this, I experienced a few reactions that varied from disbelief, to anger to sadness and then positivity. Thankfully it has been caught early and positivity is something my riding Partner exhibited. You can read his blog post about this. Click here.

At Wapping we stopped at Pelican Stairs adjacent to the Prospect of Whitby pub. Luckily as the tide was out, meaning we could go onto the foreshore of the Thames. We are definitely kindred spirits and needed no encouragement to take lots of photographs of our respective Brompton bicycles. 

Heading further east we reminisced about the many adventures we had been on. This included a never to be forgotten return journey from Whitstable! Read about that one HERE!! Our night rides to the coast. The several Brompton World Championships we have attended. We even recalled a time where a group of us inadvertently strayed onto a railway line with trains rolling past. (Understandably, I have not written a blog post about that one, nor will I)!! 

We reached the Thames Flood Barrier but the information centre (and cafe) is now only open on Saturday. So, we headed back to the establishment where we had a snack to have something more substantial. 

Of the Brompton peeps, Andrew is one of the Brompton users I have know the longest. We would never have met had it not been for the fact we both had a Brompton bicycle. We were I suppose drawn to each other. He had the Bumblebee thing going on and I the Orange thing. It is in many ways incredible that a wonderful friendship started as a result. We are both older - probably not wiser - and I know that I will have many more years of adventure on two small wheels. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people. 

"Are you Mr Orange Brompton? You here to take a photo of that postbox?!"

Not that long ago I went to Wilton's Music Hall (wonderful place) to see if I could get some tickets for an event there later in the month. (Perhaps a blog post for another time). My G-Line and I were very welcome and knowing that Wapping High Street and the Thames path were not far away, I headed south. I did not put anything into my Wahoo and tried to navigate on my own. Obviously this went wrong but I did meet a very helpful chap in more ways than one. 

I realised that I hadn't a clue where I was. I had lost my bearings and resorted to a maps app on my iPhone to at least tell we where I was and what general direction I could point my bike in - to avoid the very busy road that sat behind me. It was then I heard from behind me the words that make up the title for this blog... 

Instinct took over and I summoned up my many years of Judo that I laboured with in my youth, just in case the person who knew who I was turned out to be one of those phone snatcher rapscallion types. They weren't. What they turned out to be was a reader of my blog - Sunil. 

Sunil reminded me of a previous blog post where I had mentioned cyphers on postboxes. I have to confess that I did not remember this blog post or even taking a photo of a post box (apart from the unusual one near the Chelsea Pensioners residence with two sides). Sunil was there on the A1203 for the sole purpose of getting a photo of the postbox cypher you can see below. We had to walk a few hundred metres and there it was. 

This postbox has the Edward VIII cypher on it. He was the king who abdicated so he could marry Wallis Simpson. As such, there are very few of them in existence. Sunil was very pleased to finally spot this one and took lots of photos with a rather fancy Sony camera and lens that looked as if it would be better suited to capturing the images of wild beasts on a safari holiday. 

With directions from Sunil I said my goodbyes and headed off to the Thames Path. (Sunil, if you are reading this, it was a pleasure meeting you and when you get your Brompton on the road again, send me a message). 

As I cycled back reaching Tower Bridge I could not help but take a photo of this Victorian Penfold postbox! 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

Duo Brompton overnight ride London to Shoreham-on-Sea

Dr John and I had pencilled in the night of 4th July for a nocturnal adventure for some time. Thankfully we could both make it, so I headed off to the meeting point near the London Eye.

It was a mild night and apart from a light waterproof jacket - just in case - there was no need for lots of layers. London was busy. Hyde Park was closed off. It seemed as if there was some sort of event in there that was just finishing. Lots of people had cowboy boots and hats, a little like when Taylor Swift was in concert at Wembley. Any cycle lanes were filled with those awful rickshaw bicycle things. Why anyone uses them is a mystery?

I arrived in good time and so did Dr John. After getting ourselves ready and with the route loaded, we headed off into the night. It was good to catch up and Dr John is great company. As such the miles passed by very easily. 

This route, although avoiding Ditchling Beacon, has quite a few ups and downs to keep one occupied. It is a route I have cycled twice with the lovely Fridays peeps and the ride leader for those rides - Jim - had chosen wisely. 

Once we had passed the various Clapham stations and turned down Cathles Road things got quieter. Cycling through Tooting Common we saw several foxes embolden by the fact they were urban and on home turf. We passed a youngish chap lying on the floor. His friend shouted out from some distance away that he was okay and just drunk. I shouted back that he should not leave him and the chap on the floor then shouted back that he was okay. 

This route seemed to get us out on to much quieter lanes sooner than our usual London to Brighton route. This made things even more enjoyable. We saw several more foxes, some deer and heard the odd bird or two letting us know it was there.  

About 30is miles in we passed the traditional stop on the organised ride (Burstow Scout Hut) and settled to eat the snacks we had brought with us on the wall of a car dealership. This did seem to be in the middle of nowhere though?

At about 04:00 the sun was ever so slowly starting to appear, accompanied by an increased chorus of birdsong. I did not take many photos for this one. I blame chatting away to Dr John! The photo below was Newells Pond (I think) and like us cycling through the night another chap in a tent had probably fished all night. (I much prefer the cycling).

The last few miles into Shoreham saw us cycle on part of the Downs Link. This is a 35ish mile mainly off-road trail.

The surface of this section of the Downs Link was pretty good and the G-Line was in its element. It is as about as much off-road as I like!

We arrived at Brighton Station and boarded our train. It wasn't terrible busy but another couple of bikes were there in a disabled seat area opposite the ones we were in. A wheelchair user boarded the train and we got up to move. The huge pannier bag on one of the two bikes in the disabled area prevented him from getting to the area we had vacated. At first he simply ignored me asking him politely to move his bag - despite seeing what was going on. When he did get up he said to the gentleman in the wheelchair 'where do you expect me to put them?' referring to his bikes. What a charmer! 

Saying our goodbyes, I got off at Farringdon and Dr John at St Pancras. Once home I was out for the count once my head hit the pillow. 

This ride was a little over 67 miles and certainly provided a good workout. As always thanks to Dr John for his friendship and company. (And in case you ask, Dr John was banned from using moisturising body lotion for this ride)!

Hopefully we will have another adventure sometime soon and we might cycle to another favourite haunt. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

London movie locations on a Brompton G-Line

Today, a ride with the lovely Fridays peeps with the gentleman that is, Ross leading. Ross could quite easily make a fortune guiding people around London on his themed rides as they are that good. Today was all about movie locations and braving the heat, I made my way to Hyde Park corner bright and early. 

Although not featured on the ride, seeing the London Eye was very apt as it has been used quite a few times as the backdrop for various films. The most notable for me being, Harry Potter and the order of the Phoenix, 2007. 

I arrived at Hyde Park well inside the agreed meeting time. Traffic lights were green, the roads seemed quieter than usual and my G-Line just glided along effortlessly. After a quick coffee from the nearby cafe I waited for the others to arrive, which did not take long. We were soon off in search of movie locations and they came thick and fast. 

Genevieve, 1953

The first location took us to SW7 and Rutland Mews and Genevieve. This was a 1953 comedy where two veteran cars take part in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. Rutland Mews is where the car - Genevieve - is parked and where owners Alan and Wendy (played by Kenneth More and Dinah Sheridan) live. 

Skyfall, 2012. 82 Cadogan Square

82 Cadogan Square was the former address of the John Barry, composer of the the Bond theme and the scores for 11 Bond films. In the film Skyfall, Barry's former residence is used as the home of M, played by Dame Judi Dench. The location was used perhaps as a mini tribute to Barry who passed away the year before. 

Repulsion, 1965

Set in London, Repulsion is a psychological horror thriller starring Catherine Deneuve who has an apartment in South Kensington. Despite being critically acclaimed, I had not heard of it or seen it. I suspect I probably never will as I am not sure that its plot of a a Belgian manicurist living in London really grabs me! 

A Fish Called Wanda, 1988. 69 Onslow Gardens

Now this is a film I have seen many times and mainly as it has my favourite Python and world traveller, Sir Michael Palin in it. In a famous seen, Sir Michael's character, Ken who is a hitman, is tasked with the business of getting rid of an eye witness to a robbery played by Patricia Hayes. Outside this house instead of killing Hayes character, her pet dog is squashed to death when Ken shoots a bullet at a rope carrying a heavy load of building materials. 

Ride leader Ross doing his thing

Notting Hill 1999. Portobello Road.

Much of the filming for Notting Hill took place on Portobello Road. It is a location I know well and I have very vivid and fond memories of going there early every Saturday morning with my late dad to stock up on fruit and veg and have a look at some of the antiques on offer. It still has its market, still sells fruit and veg and does have antiques but alas it has changed greatly. It is a bit of a tourist trap nowadays. 

The famous front door leading to the flat that Hugh Grant's character shares with his flatmate had a line of people waiting to be photographed in front of. The original door was auctioned off for charity and the current one is an exact copy. It all brought back some very happy memories. 

Alfie, 1966. 29 St Stephen's Gardens

On of the locations used for Alfie, starring Sir Michael Caine as his residence. As with so many areas in London, it has changed quite considerably over the years. 

A Hards Day's Night, 1964. Marylebone Station

In this film where the Beatles showcased, they can be seen running into Liverpool Lime House Station and then running out of Marylebone Station. Both scenes were filmed at Marylebone. There are lots of lots of locations associated with the Beatles nearby to this and if you click HERE you will find a blog post dedicated to just that. 

The King's Speech, 2010. 33 Portland Place

Build between 1776- 1779, Portland Place was laid out by Robert and James Adam. It was the High Commission for Sierra Leone between 1958-1998. For The King's Speech it was used as the as the home of the then Duke and Duchess of York as their home in 145 Piccadilly. A stunner of a house, it is one of the few that remains intact and not converted into apartments. 

Batman. Senate House.

Senate house looks very 1930s America and has been used in both Batman Begins and Dark Knight Rises. It has been used in many other films and television show over the years as well. It is part of University College London (a wonderful establishment) and frequently used where an American city skyline is needed but without the need to go there. 

Once we had reached the end of the ride - on a very hot day - I said my goodbyes and after about 25 minutes of cycling, I was home and glad of a cold drink waiting for me. Later that evening, I inflicted ‘A Fish Called Wanda’ on the Orangettes. 

My G-Line performed well and increasingly I seem to be using this and my Brompton Electric. My other two have not really had much of an outing this year. 

As always, it was a great ride and I really enjoyed it all. Many thanks to Ross. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!