Today I attempted the big one. I know in my mind that once I have passed the 45 mile barrier, no matter what the distance, I can manage the target I have set. So today I set off for Portsmouth with the intention of crossing both the harbour and my invisible barrier. The weather was with me which was nice for a change so I headed foe Lea on the Solent via Stubbington and Tichfield – a very pretty ride on a sunny day. This was followed by a ride along the coast to Stokes Bay and the little Gosport Ferry.
In Portsmouth there is a hidden cycle track that takes you through all the little back streeets and around the harbour, across to the Eastern side of the island. This is quite sheltered so is an easy ride. Eastern Avenue follows the shore of Chichester Harbour with views across to Hayling Island. Eventually you end up on Southsea front. Its about a 3 mile ride along the shore back to the ferry – and a welcome rest!!
Once into Gosport its back along the old railway to Rowner, Stubbington and the usual route home. All in all a lovely ride, although I have to say I am completely cream crackered!! Never mind, I did it that’s the main thing.
Statistics:-
Distance – 45.29 miles
Average Speed – 11.1 mph
Total time (including ferry and and lunch stop – 5 hours