The Winter Classic

"The Winter Classic" had been a subject of much discussion on fixed.org. With the weather conditions wet, a 30-km head wind and possible thunderstorm, it sounded like the perfect training ride!

Not to mention my Clamont touring bike was re-greased, reassembled and in dire need of a good test ride.

So it was an 8am  start at Remy and Lees on Bourke Street for a coffee and some friendly banter about the pace of the ride. This was quickly decided when Terence, also known as Captain pain, rolled in.

There was a little uncertainty about the exact route (princess hwy or south dowling). South Dowling was the call and it wasn't long till everyone fell in to position. With fresh legs and a clearing sky it was shaping up to be a nice ride.

After the first 25kms we made a brief stop for bananas and a regroup before dropping in to the Royal National Park.

With a delicious decent down to the river and the sound of 11 freewheels buzzing like a swam of bees it was hard to wipe the smile off my face. But I did when we hit the climb! The pack quickly spread out with the faster guys getting out of their saddles and disappearing over the rise. The hill claimed a couple of victims having to stop to catch their breath or have a quick spew.

After that there was a nice mix of undulating hills followed by some steep climbs, beautiful forest and more winding descents.

By the time I exited the National Park at Stanwell tops, the mirage of a frosty beer and pub meal was starting to haunt me. I was happy with the decision to stop at The Scarborough hotel for lunch.

From Stanwell to Scarborough was amazing! Descending quickly through a series of tight corners my bikes ancient cantilever brakes squealed like an excited toddler. Then across the sea bridge to one final climb, a clattering of metal as my chain come off. Luckily it goes on again easily and then it's just a roll in to the beer garden.

A couple of beers and bowls of chip are consumed while stories are exchanged and compared. We decide to take the train back to Sydney resting our legs as the banter continues fueled by a few smuggled ales.

A fantastic ride and probably my last in Australia. Thanks to everyone involved and looking forward to a "Summer Classic" when we return.