Hard Knott

[Ninjachica]

Two and a half hours to get to The Lakes.

Motorway ground to a halt a couple of times, and the road to Windermere / Ambleside was horrendous. Some chap with flashy blue lights got through ok though!

As soon as I cleared Ambleside it was much better.

Had a couple of bikes ahead and behind as we turned for the passes. The first two stopped for photos, but the others followed. Then I got stuck behind a van and a car. I pulled over and let them get ahead, and pretty much had Wrynose to myself.

Met the other two chaps at the top of Hardknott

This was my first time doing it east to west. Two really scary bits. Who’s feckless idea was this? Seriously expecting brake fade!

[Ninjachica]

New Zealand

[Ninjachica]

Got to the King George pub, and all booked up.

No biggie. Ordered a coffee. The second worst I’ve had in my life!

Decided to do the return trip. West to east. Somehow seems easier.

But didn’t like the uphill right hairpin, when following a 4x4 that lost traction! Thought I was going to have to put my foot down… somewhere… (the road falls away somewhat)

Had to stop at the end, as the cows refused to get off the road!

Had a flask with me, so chilled out for a bit, listening to sheep

[Ninjachica]

Gave Rach a call and popped in for a cuppa

[Beelady]

Hello Rach!

I am pretty sure I won't be doing that ride at any time. Fear of not being able to touch the ground makes me a bit careful where I go, even locally.
Toppled off the Kawasaki a few weeks ago. Tiny single track bridge with lights that turned red as I approached and first across was a massive tractor with tracks on. He had to come towards me as someone stupid left a parked car too close to the bridge, so I helpfully moved left, put my foot down in a dent in the road and very slowly lowered the bike to the ground.
White van man behind me hopped out and helped me pick it up (He did it really. I just held on to it and made noises).
I'm usually more observant about where I put my feet down but now and again I get caught out and over we go.
Stupid short legs and wobbly ankles!
I do love a bit of goat tracking and back laning. I like the challenge, as long as I have someone there to pick the bike up if needed. Hardly ever happens but with bendy bones it's wise to have a minder along.

[Snev]

Both times I've been, it was pissing down.... both times were East to West, I often wondered what it was like going the other way.... there are a few scary parts that's for sure...... I love seeing all your trips Ninja..... you certainly get the most out of biking.

[bobsnicholson]

Did it in the M5 couple weeks ago. Don't know the East West bit but in the car i went the opposite way and was mega hard in parts. Putting 565 BHP down on a wet road is hard work for the traction control i can tell you.

[Snev]

That's nothing Bob..... I'm taking the Grom next time.......

[bobsnicholson]

Would imagine it would be quite easy on a Grom.............but what do i know about biking

[Snev]

Lol..... I'm impressed you did it in the M5 mate.... thats a lot of car on those narrow tracks, bet the steep bits were interesting.... week 7 and still no news on the Grom.....