Day 130 - Nice Day, Nice Lanes = Tired Legs

I managed to get today for the 4 hour bike ride. Susan was meant to be off on Friday and didn't fancy getting up at silly o'clock on Saturday morning so went out today instead. I started off by going a new route and then decided since I had the off road tyres on to go along the tow path to Maldon.

Since it was still early morning I had the path to myself and it was gorgeous. Only one butt clenching moment when the path takes a sharp right, drops down and then a sharp left, slight miss judge of timing and I would have had my first open water swim of the season!!! but skidded my way around it. Dam those disc brakes are good.

I found my way back on to an old familiar route that I have ridden many times for previous ironman training. Then I remembered why I always rode it other way around. A constant up hill struggle from Maldon to Black Notley and the wind mainly in my face. But good training all the same. At Great Leighs I decided to experiment and go some new routes and make it up. I got where I wanted to get to but around some beautiful lanes that were traffic free and smooth tarmac. The other bonus was passing some amazing homes. What do these people do to afford these places - obviously not teachers!!

I suddenly saw the time and decided I needed to put the hammer down and get my tiring backside home. Despite trying my hardest I couldn't get my average speed up that much. Of road tyres are hard work and the amount of effort i was putting in I was not getting the speed as a reward. But having said that when I do get back on the race bike it will feel like a dream in comparison.

All in all a fantastic day out and really feel pleased with the effort, speed, distance and especially loving the new smooth lanes and can not wait to go and explore some more.