Everything seemed fine. But it wasn't until the first big ride attempt when things started to go wrong.
My intention was to ride 20 miles (ish) from my home in Warrington to Lymm, through Warburton, into Glazebrook, passing through Culcheth, through Croft and back round to home. Its essentially one big circular loop, and I wouldn't be coming back on myself at all.
However I got as far as Thelwall before my saddle started to slide off. The saddle clearly hadn't been checked before setting off, and the nut that was holding it onto the bike had come loose due to my weight (didn't think I was that heavy!)
Thankfully I have some very supportive parents, who brought a set of tools to help me whilst I sat next to the Manchester Ship Canal waiting patiently. I never knew there was beauty in seeing Latchford Locks on a sunny day!
Once the saddle was bolted on securely, it was nearly rush hour. So I decided not to risk my life riding up and down the Warburton Bridge at its busiest time of day, and set off for home the way I came. A round trip of eight miles overall.
A disappointment, but I have only got the bike and I'm still getting used to riding it, so maybe it wasn't a good idea putting in 20 miles to start off with.
However I have learnt some important things about road cycling.
- Always take a bag full of Allan keys and screw drivers.
- Pack a hand pump in case you get a puncture.
- On the topic of punctures, take some inner tubes and tyre leavers with you.
This means you don't need to rely on Mummy to drive to your location and help you out.
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