VCR Reliability Trial Route Test

In preparation for the VC Revolution Reliability Trial on 3rd February 2008 members of the club took to the route that has been proposed by Ian Pearson. The group met at the usual meeting point and then rode over to Essex University (which will be the HQ on the day).

The ride was always going to be quite tough as the latter part has some challenging hills, especially when 40 miles have already been completed. The turn out was fantastic and at one point the group had 16 riders.

The ride was excellent and everybody worked hard to pull the group round. Ride of the day must go to Steffan Toscan, who after 18 years off the bike is making a comeback which started in March this year (2007), Steffan will agree that he's a couple of pounds overweight but is clearly working hard to burn it off and find some of that old form, in addition he had already been out for rides on Friday and Saturday. Well done Steffan and I know how hard it is, keep at it.

The main purpose of today's ride was primarily to check the route and ensure the distance and terrain were suitable, but also to check for any dangerous junctions that might need to be avoided, I'm pleased to say that we only made one small change so well done to Ian for pretty much getting it right first time.

The course starts as the Essex University and passes through the following areas:- Alresford, Thorrington, Gt Bentley, Weeley Heath, Lt Clacton, Gt Holland, Finton, Walton, Kirby Le Soken, Beaumont, Gt Oakley, Lt Oakley, Dovercourt, Wrabness, Bradfield, Manningtree, Lawford, Lt Bromley, Elmstead Market, Essex University.

A link to the proposed route can be seen here: MAP

The attached picture shows a rough outline of the route and the gradient profile. The distance is 53.1 miles

The picture below shows some of the VCR riders out for todays ride and was taken at the Essex University.

Left to Right: David McCormick, Clive Hilzbrich, Rob Kemp, Dominic Glanz, Richard Norris, James Wylie