Ride report

Was it the sunny, dry weather or the traditional venue that gave rise to the largest group for a long time? Fourteen set off from Broad Street, 2 more joined en route and a further 5 at lunch. With temperatures down to just 2 degrees overnight, there was some concern about icy roads. As it happened, our first obstacle was flood water – our leader wisely decided not to risk crossing University Parks (see photo). And no ice either as we rode to lunch in Bicester. With a bright and warming sun, thoughts of ice were banished as we set off for home. Perhaps that is why 3 or us crashed on the invisible ice which had inexplicably lingered over several miles of the Akeman Way. Fortunately, shock, bruises and a bent derailleur were the only casualties.