Ride out Sunday 20/09/09

Well, as the Summer is over and Autumn beckons, what a pleasant dry spell we have had of late. Combining this dry spell with the realization that ultimately the cold and wet weather will be soon upon us, me and my mate Goff decided to head into Wales in search of some fresh tarmac. For no particular reason the name Lampeter got mentioned but our destination soon got changed to ABERAERON as we fancied a sea view and we’d never been there!

We set off from Kidderminster and upon reaching Tenbury we headed out on the A4112 with its nice undulating twisties towards Leominster. Then it was on to Brecon where we stopped for a coffee and chat with other guys at the layby at Llanspyddid on the A40. Duly rested we carried on along the A40 through Llandovery and turned off the trunk road at LLanwrda, at last a fresh bit of road the A482 and a very nice road it is too, this was putting the fresh Maxxis rubber through its running in procedure very nicely. We did have one shock, and that was the sight of a Victory complete with huge fairing and integrated top box and panniers appear in the mirrors, fly by, and rapidly dissapear into the distance taking the bends at ridiculas angles of lean, that guy sure could handle that huge machine. The A482 goes through Lampeter on to Aberaeron and most its 18 miles is one twisty after another and mainly through wooded non habitable areas, which is near perfection for bikes. Upon arrival it was time for some snaps and a coffee.

Aberaeron Quayside

Harbour Entrance

Well after a quick look about we decided to head in the direction of Aberystwyth, and after just a couple of miles on the coast road we had beautiful views Northwards along the coast with Snowdonia way in the distance.

The A487 is yet another great road but restraint is required due to the volume of holiday traffic and the presence of the local Constabulary who lie in wait for those ignoring the regular flashes from other road users warning of their whereabouts. Upon reaching Aberystwyth we turned inland along the A4120 to Devils Bridge, which is yet another great road.

Time for a fag in Devils Bridge (For those that partake)

After a break at Devils Bridge it was the Mountain Road to the top of Elan Valley and down past the lakes and through Rhayader for a stop at Crossgates.

Yes, yet ANOTHER pic of Crossgates cafe!

After the stop it was the run for home through Knighton and over Clee Hill into Bewdley, where we usually go our seperate ways.

Black Boy Hotel,Wribbenhall,Bewdley

Well what a great day we had, 235miles under our belts, the Maxxis front is run in and feels very very good. Fingers crossed for a dry Autumn!