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I think we are after the same experience, in previous years I just found it so refreshing to take it easy, enjoy the scenery, bikes & people. It's rare to have a ride with the same ideals as others and not have most out for themselves & not caring about average speeds or frickin Strava. The only thing I'd say is that the Monsal Trail is shared equally with others and it isn't really safe to be doing anything approaching 20mph IMO, apart from as you say when there's absolutely no one around, including other cyclists. Also the scenery on the trail around Monsal Head is some of the best on the ride.
efb-
Agreed to that. Monsal Trail is a friendly warm-up. But there’s a good bit of railway line, around Sparklow I think, that’s dead level or even a slight descent, plus Longdale.
Another good bit is the descent to Chatsworth; in 2013 this was like the Isle of Man TT for me and my riding buddy, but last year we were held up by slow-travelling motorhomes.
I note there are a few slight modifications to the route this year.
I’m not a Strava man myself but I’m not averse to getting on the rivet when needs must!
I’ll be on the line at 7.15.
de_Selby
Re epilepticfridgeboy: You go at your pace and I'll go at mine. The misty, early-morning rail trails are sheer heady, intoxicating fun taken flat out; and the last 10k or so down Longdale to the first food stop at Hartington are the most exhilarating road miles you'll ever get in Blighty.
After that, suitably fortified, I ease up and become sociable. Eroica is fun however you go; nobody is doing it wrong.
Love that Osgear Hobbs up there!