Race to the death!! (On a Brompton)

Today while cycling to work, the place where I carry out honest toil, a rather strange thing took place. I will elaborate.

Arriving at a set of traffic lights I got myself ready for the green.  Normally, I simple glide off at a fairly even pace and could generally say that I amble like a true English gentleman on a bicycle. To my right, up pulled another male on a bike.  Not a Brompton, but one of those arse up head down jobs.  He too was getting ready for the green.

In a moment of madness, I decided that he would not beat me. He would not overtake! He would not pass!! The green lights fired and I was off. Having smaller wheels it was inevitable that I would accelerate at a tremendous speed. It is a matter of physics...surely. I surged ahead and stayed ahead for ages. Turning to face my rival I could see that I was indeed well ahead as I came up to another set of lights. Red lights.

The other bike rolled up to my right yet again. This time I could see in his eyes that he didn't want that to happen again. My pulse racing I got ready of the green light. It came and I was off again and again I had out accelerated him. Knowing that a rather steep hill approached I moved the gears to whatever the gear is that gets one uphill. This caused my feet to turn the peddles like that witch riding her bicycle in the wizard of Oz - know the one I mean? Losing traction I could see my rival looming closer. As he passed me, as I knew he would surely do, I said, "morning" and continued to turn the wheels rapidly, which became a blur.

I cannot explain this startling display and I suspect I would not do it again. Has this ever happened to you?If so share your experiences. I would sleep better knowing that I wasn't alone!

Brompton LED Light Set

When I first bought my Brompton one thing I didn't buy initially was the light set. Having used it virtually every day since I having my Brompton, I thought is was about time I did a mini review of them.

I bought the set from 'Brilliant Bikes.' It arrived really quickly with full instructions on how to fit it. (Which takes minutes and is fairly hassle free). The rear red light looks great has the Brompton name on it and it sits flush with the bike. It is simply on and off and doesn't have any flashing modes. The light it produces is bright and the two AAA batteries are a doodle to replace.

The front light is one of he best I have ever seen. It comes with a bracket that can be permanently fixed to the handle bars, with the light itself sliding on and off as and when needed. It has flashing and light on modes and produces a brilliant bright white beam. It takes three AAA batteries but both lights last ages and I have yet to replace the batteries on the front or rear.

If you have a Brompton I would say these lights are a must. The rear light really does enhance the look of the bike and doesn't look like an after market part at all. Yes you can buy cheaper lights but I don't think they will look or perform half as well. They really do increase ones confidence when cycling at night or early morning.

(One thing to note. You can buy the rear light on its own but if you want the front light, you'll have to buy the set).

I will post some pics in the next few days.

The London Wetlands Centre

Today I paid a visit to the London Wetlands Centre. Located just over the Hammersmith Bridge in Barnes it really is a little oasis of calm tranquility in the middle of the hustle and bustle of London.

The London Wetlands Centre is one of several similar nature reserves dotted across the country and were the brainchild of the late, great Sir Peter Scott. Apart from carrying out vital conservation work its centres provide a wonderful opportunity to experience nature.

Birds at the Wetlands Centre were plentiful. I found myself transported back to a 9 year old boy, enthusiastically trying to identify the many different types of birds on display on the lakes and around the centre. I spotted: Wigeons; Gadwalls; Lapwings; Pintails; Herons; Coots; Moorhens; Mallards; Canada Geese and the highlight a Cetti's Warbler (pointed out to me by a friendly birder).

The London Wetlands Centre also has a pretty mean selection of cakes in the cafe and with lots for children to do and see, it really is a perfect way to spend a day.

One of the viewing areas overlooking the lakes.

The centre has plenty of bike racks, should you wish to bring a Brompton or other bike. It also has ample parking, a children's play area, lots of other child-friendly things to do and an excellent shop.  'The Family' loved it and we will be back again very soon.

The view from Peacok Tower - one of the many hides one can explore.