My first post

Well all this creating my own blog to chat about me is actually very new to me. To begin with I am going to be taking part in the Manchester to Blackpool charity bike ride on the 12th of July this year. I have to admit I am quite nervous, I got my foldable mountain bike a year ago and that is the first time I have been on a bike since I was about 10 so about 15 years! It's true you dont forget how to ride it but you do forget how bloody knackering it can be!!

Anyway I have been training in and around the Wigan area, with my friend who originally introduced me to the idea. We've travelled mainly along the canal routes and so far we've only had one day where it absolutely poured it down and we got covered in mud, he he he. Our average mileage is about 20 miles, this takes me quite a while, as I am more unfit than I had first anticipated. As you can imagine this is very frustrating so, I am hoping to build up my stamina soon.

Sadly my bike broke last week, I was told it was the free wheel (the cog on the back), I told you I was new at this :). I have now had that replaced, however my gears don't currently work either so, I am getting a new gear cable and my bike serviced tomorrow. I have got my hybrid tyres already on my bike so I am now hoping it will be as good as new and the gears will actually work next week for the first time this year. Wish me luck. :)

Oh I shall also occasionally post pictures of the places we visit when we're out cycling. Feel free to leave any comments, words of encouragement (I need them) and advice (I really need this) with regards to biking, bike maintenance etc. I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with you, I do so like to write. I will also add non-cycling related blog posts when I get the urge.

Ok that's the end of my first post :)