I remember, on my way back from Carrbridge on Sunday, that I began to experience a problem with my lovely shiny bike. It's very hard to explain but there was a kind of 'clunking' sound coming from the pedals and/or gears. I checked the pedals to make sure there was nothing loose, and there was indeed no play in them at all.
But the clunking continued every now and then on the way back, and - perhaps luckily - I made it home in one piece. I think I just assumed the bike was tired!!
On Monday when I left for work the clunking was still there. I figured I would just leave it until the weekend then get it into Dryburgh Cycles in Dingwall. 5-6 miles into the cycle, I heard a loud thud - I visually inspected the bike and could see nothing wrong so I continued on.
A mile or so further on and I heard a 'ting-ting' type sound. Looked at the back wheel and there was a bent and broken spoke, together with a buckled wheel!! Happy days!
I gently cycled on to work, careful not go too fast or hit a bump with my compromised wheel. I made it in enough time so that was fine. My good friend and fellow Carbonaut Keith agreed to take me to Dingwall and get the bike into the shop at lunchtime.
Paul gave me a lift home in the evening, which was very much appreciated.
On Monday evening, I decided that I wouldn't let this stop my training progress so I dusted off the old hybrid bike, oiled it, adjusted the gears and checked the tyres (which were both still hard since its last use 2 months ago).
On Tuesday I headed out my normal route and what happened at the caravan park between North Kessock and Redcastle? Well, a puncture of course!!! And who didn't bring puncture repair kit since was only using the bike 'as a one-off'? Me!!!!
I actually laughed when I'd seen what had happened. Somehow, it wasn't surprising!
My very kind manager Paul once again bailed me out and picked me up so I am eternally grateful once again for his help.
Tomorrow - Wednesday - I'm driving in.
And I'll be taking orders for lucky white heather via my website: http://www.whysomanyjaggedlittlestonesonourroads.com/
:) -> :S -> :(
John
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