My FIRST Ride with SLAM.

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear.” I’ve heard it before and now I understand. 

Not fully knowing what to expect and a bit apprehensive I made my way to the start point, which was greggs just off the A59 near clitheroe, for my first SLAM ride since passing my advanced test. With it being a rainy start to the day and nothing but grey clouds in the sky I was surprised to see that the turnout was about a dozen people. We grab a brew, get synced up on comms and are ready to hit the road. 

Leaving Greggs we head up the A59 for a short distance before turning onto clitheroe road as we make our way through the hills and over towards Hebden bridge. Taking in the stunning scenery that was only slightly tarnished by dark skies, soaked jeans and a rain covered visor. 

All was well when we stopped off at craggies farm shop for a bite of breakfast and a brew. The food was good and so was the time spent getting to know other SLAM members. The sun was starting to appear, with both my jeans and the roads starting to dry out the day was looking up as we hit the road. This time heading for Glossop via Holmfirth and woodhead pass before stopping for another much needed hot drink over at weatherspoons. Before leaving we had to get a group picture of us all. 

Heading into the Peak District I had high hopes for what was to come. Asphalt drying and clouds clearing, it was looking up to be great. Snakes pass, Mortimer road, back up to holmfirth then over to our final stop at Northern sole cafe in slaithwaite. An outstanding route every sense. Slow hairpins, varying inclines and swooping S bends all topped off by a picturesque backdrop that slows you down just to appreciate it. 

Stopping off at northern sole cafe was a great time for me to have a cake and really converse with the other riders. Talking about how I as a young rider have gained so much from my short time at SLAM. 

Heading back towards home from there it was a nice ride while being able to reflect on my first group ride. A couple of conclusions I came to were: make sure I have waterproofs for when they’re needed; there’s so much I can learn from these people around me, it’s fantastic and that I will definitely be going to more group rides in the future.