We’ve arrived in England and kicked things off with a test ride—from Mum and Dad’s place in Bracknell to see Louise and Rob in Harpenden. The ride out was fab: sunshine and trafic free paths along bike route 61. The return trip the next day? A little more “character building” thanks to the Chilterns and a solid dose of English rain.

Everything’s working—legs, bikes, and gear. We even managed to back up after a night of great food, good company and too much wine. A promising start for our 3 week cycle to Spain.

A few more days here with the old folk, then it’s off to Portsmouth and the ferry to France on Sunday.