From a couple of days ago. Day off, no time pressure, so decided to try out three new climbs. A wee stop allowed more piddling about with the front mech. The 105 groupset has been great except for this, which seems to reset itself every few rides. Also afforded a view of the today's first target, the WW1 memorial atop Crich. You
might be able to make it out on the left
Closer view
Looking southeast you can feel a bit James Cagney
Northwest though, and you realise you're just on the edge of the Peak District
A few miles over a moor, then a sharpish descent into Matlock for the main course, Riber Road. Simon Warren says it's favourite climb and gives it a difficulty rating of
9/10. What he doesn't mention is that the first hairpin goes from 4 to 30% in about 5 yards. With an oncoming car taking up most of the road, I put my foot down more out of fear/surprise than fatigue. Only just made it up the remainder, very tough. Lots of lovely 25+ percentness where even a seat potato like me had to get out of the saddle. Pleased, with a tinge of regret about the dismount. Will definitely give it another go before the years end
Gentle descent down to Cromford for the climb that featured in this year's TOB stage six. One mile at 8%, it's a good test, but a little boring. You do have a wide choice of routes at the top though, and I went for a bit more climbing up to Bolehill, which gave the final view of Crich Tower from the Bear Inn beer garden.
2.5 miles of freewheeling back to Derby had me regretting not wearing a base layer. Might risk it again tomorrow if the forecasts are accurate
48 miles, 4000ft. Seem to be finding some climbing legs in time to try a set a few PBs before winter
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all the way and light winds. Managed a century, a milestone in my recovery for sure. Loved the ride 
)
I did pass the message on to my dad though who was able to help out.
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