📔 Editor's Letter - July 2023
Hello again, old friends!
You may be wondering where I've been and why it has taken me so long to publish this latest issue? (That's a valid question, I too have been asking myself.) I haven't any justifiable excuses... it's just been very time consuming for me this time around.
Along the road from Grosmont heading toward Skenfrith
My cover story for this issue; Three Castle Tour, is my longest and most complex report that I've ever published. I selected and edited 154 images from a daunting group of over 600 to be included in this single feature alone.
It's a long read. I covered not only the routes that I rode, but I also explored each of the three castles extensively, photographing and documenting them as professionally as I have ever approached a subject.
I then wrote a short history/sidebar for each of the castles, as well as an overview on the relationship these three castles share and why I chose to cycle to them. I created detail and information as if the report was intended for print publication.
It's a long read. I covered not only the routes that I rode, but I also explored each of the three castles extensively, photographing and documenting them as professionally as I have ever approached a subject.
I then wrote a short history/sidebar for each of the castles, as well as an overview on the relationship these three castles share and why I chose to cycle to them. I created detail and information as if the report was intended for print publication.
On the road between Monmouth & Abergavenny
On the road circling Sugarloaf Mountain
My second feature; Monmouth & Abergavenny Loop is from a very challenging ride along the main road running between Monmouth & Abergavenny (B4233). It's a hilly monster, but also a beautiful ride showcasing some of the best landscapes through Monmouthshire.
The route I covered is merely 15 miles; however, as a photography project I assigned myself, I've included over 50 photos from that section alone. It's not a route I ride often, but it deserves recognition because on a warm sunny day (like I had), it is simply stunning.
My third feature is an update to an older ride, but it's a classic route that I ride at least a couple of times a year; Llangynidr & Sugarloaf Classic. Look for this one to be added to my Routes to Ride section soon. It's simply fantastic.
The route I covered is merely 15 miles; however, as a photography project I assigned myself, I've included over 50 photos from that section alone. It's not a route I ride often, but it deserves recognition because on a warm sunny day (like I had), it is simply stunning.
My third feature is an update to an older ride, but it's a classic route that I ride at least a couple of times a year; Llangynidr & Sugarloaf Classic. Look for this one to be added to my Routes to Ride section soon. It's simply fantastic.
In my Departments for this issue, I've brought back a chart I hope becomes more active. Read about my efforts cycling 100 miles or more in: 100 Mile Club.
As I continue to update my Galleries section to the new and larger format, I offer some images from NCN Route 467; a route that is near and dear to my heart — Quoits Wood.
For some tasty online receipes and great cycing/camping cooking tips, I've included a link to a Dave's Travel Pages: Best Foods for Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking – Food List.
Then to satisfy your cycling soul with a calm, yet inspiring message, I've included a great little video to watch: Bicycle Touring - Alberta to Arizona.
As I continue to update my Galleries section to the new and larger format, I offer some images from NCN Route 467; a route that is near and dear to my heart — Quoits Wood.
For some tasty online receipes and great cycing/camping cooking tips, I've included a link to a Dave's Travel Pages: Best Foods for Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking – Food List.
Then to satisfy your cycling soul with a calm, yet inspiring message, I've included a great little video to watch: Bicycle Touring - Alberta to Arizona.
Of course there are the ususal links to a couple of older reports from a previous issue, just in case you missed them. And as always I include links to friends websites & blogs, assorted knick-nacks and doodads, and a few lingering what-nots.
I you hope find something of interest in this issue and continue visiting my little world of cycling adventures in Wales. If you've any questions or topics you'd like to share, do not hesitate to contact me. I'd love to hear from ya!
Thanks again for all your support & encouragement. Your readership means everything. 🚲
cheers! - cm
bikewales99@gmail.com
I you hope find something of interest in this issue and continue visiting my little world of cycling adventures in Wales. If you've any questions or topics you'd like to share, do not hesitate to contact me. I'd love to hear from ya!
Thanks again for all your support & encouragement. Your readership means everything. 🚲
cheers! - cm
bikewales99@gmail.com
