Crossing by Ferry

The Brompton is having a service this week so I am on the Trek for the next couple days. I had to make a trip to Newham and the fastest way is by the ferry at Woolwich. Unfortunately I got lost in Newham, despite having my Transport for London map with all the safe routes for bikes. Newham still has some of the old docks and few routes across the water. The TFL cycle map wasn’t helpful on this occasion. If I had had the Brompton I would have just folded it up and jumped on the Docklands Light Railway. Sadly no non-folding bikes allowed on the DLR at anytime.

Cold & wet

We are having varied weather this summer. One day I am in flip flops and today I am back in boots and tights.

New bag

I got a new bag in the Espirt sale in Oxford Street. This is the first non-bike bag I have been able to use while cycling. It is big enough to carry what I need and importantly it has a big fat shoulder strap which means it is comfortable when I sling across my body while cycling. I still love my Timbuktu but I have been using it for over a year and there comes a time for a change.

The Clarks

These shoes are being well used this summer.

It happens

A cyclist was killed in May on a roundabout that I occasionally use. It is a tricky section of the road where you have to have 360 vision and in rush hour the traffic is always trying to beat the lights.

Her friends put up a white bicycle in memorial. I think it is part of the Ghost Bike art memorial project. Has it made me more wary of traffic? No. I think the more people cycle the safer it will become. Every time I pass I think of this woman and her devoted friends and I pedal harder.

The Brompton needs a service

I’ve had my Brompton for 18 months and I still haven’t taken it for a proper service. But it is doing very well and I can’t complain.

Flips Flops

Up close and looking ragged. Marks & Spencer - Per Una range, circa 2001.

Cycling in flip flops

I never thought I would be so confident in my cycling to just wear flip flops, but here I am cycling in flimsy shoes because it is so hot. I’ve had these leather and rubber ones by M&S Per Una for years. They have a very thick sole and look almost formal for a flip flop. Sadly they are now coming to end of their days. Maybe one more year?