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@youramericanlover
A great route to the coast which in the past seems to get run in the autumn, so I figured I'd keep with tradition. Muchos thanks to @|³|MA3K and @skive and @stonehedge for previous editions and route. 2011 edition here: http://www.lfgss.com/conversations/194019/?offset=150. Superb lanes through the Kent Downs to Dover and then into the pub in St Margaret's Bay. If it's clear you can easily see France (and will definitely get French reception on your mobile) . It has very generously been called rolling, but maybe more sensibly called 'pretty hilly.' Nonetheless it's perfectly doable fixed/SS. I'd prefer to have a group of FGSS but willing to consider gears if the group leans that way. It's about 90 miles plus the ride back to Dover.
Departure will be 8am from the junction of Sandgate Street and the Old Kent Road. Sandgate street is a quiet road with a good bit of pavement so we won't be in anyone's way.
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/776328?privacy_code=W0xCPwUwGJZS10fi
?privacy_code=W0xCPwUwGJZS10fi
Self-sufficiency
Bring tools, spare tubes, appropriate clothes, plenty of food and water, lights, batteries, etc. Familiarise yourself with the route, swap numbers before departing, and charge your phone. Eat/drink little and often.
Check your bike
Give it a look over before the ride – tighten, inflate, oil, check tyres for glass/flint/gatorskins.
Bring lights
Just in case innit.
Road etiquette
Try to remain vigilant on the country lanes, especially when navigating blind corners. Let others know when you are slowing or coming past, and for the benefit of those behind you, call out or point at hazards such as potholes and cars. If you have a puncture, mechanical or drop off the back, call out to those in front to wait, and unless they hate you, they’ll pass the message forward. Don't go off the front as it splits the group and, let's be honest, it's pretty fucking annoying.
I'd do a list but this flashy website precludes the necessity.