So here I'm sitting, 5 months down the line, writing up my experiences. I'm glad I've done this now, as I had occasion to relive the long ride in my mind. And to tell the truth, it was never nearly as bad as I have made it sound at times. Truth be told, I'd love to do it again. Next time I'd rather not do it alone though. While riding alone suits me fine, the evenings alone weren't always that much fun. I think the best formula is to have a riding partner who is similarly independent. that way you can ride solo when you feel like it, and ride together when you get bored. in the evenings, you can then share the day's experiences. So, if there is anyone out there fancies coming along in a couple of years' time, drop me a line. But if you're not on a recumbent, promise to keep out of my way on the downhills!
So what has the End to End brought me? Well, it made me a lot fitter than I was beforehand. While summer lasted, I made sure I kept up this fitness level as best I could by going on long day rides. Alas, now winter's all but upon us, my monthly mileage has shrunk, not aided by not having the daily commute anymore. hence the 5 kilos I lost over the End to End had piled on again by October.
I gained a great sense of achievement from the ride. it is a great achievement, especially when you lug far too much luggage with you! It also gives me the opportunity to bore people senseless with stories, and to flesh out my website a little.
But probably most of all it's made me passionate about cycle touring. This country, indeed, Europe, is not really a very large place, making most of it accessible by bike. the bike is the best way to see most places - on foot you see more, but of less, as you are too slow. In a car you can see many places far apart, but everything in between is a blur. And Britain isn't as wet as people may think. OK, I did mention a fair bit of rain, but it really wasn't that dramatic. I only mentioned the bad weather, generally. And I only got really wet once - on all other occasions I was dry by the time I reached the campsite, even if it had been raining shortly beforehand.
So my final words of advice would be this: whether you're planning to ride down to the park and back stretch your legs, ride to work once in a while, go for a leisurely biking weekend in the country, or ride the End to End in 12 hours - stop dithering and JUST DO IT!
Happy Cycling
DJ
Last Updated on 25 November, 1999