In some ways, the following could go in the rubbish cycling thread!However...
I decided to take the road bike out for a spin today and found myself crazily riding it up through the Pentland Hills despite having lovely slick Continental GP Force & Attack tyres on. I did fine until I planted my foot in a river and later lost an argument with a big muddy puddle! But all was well and I was riding back on the Roseburn Path until... I suffered a rapid rear tyre deflation. The light was fading and I was still a mile from home. Try as I might, that tyre was proving even harder than normal to get off.
Several commuters past by without a single shout of "ok?", which seems sadly typical round here. No, maybe they don't have the tools to help but maybe I need to make a phone call or just need to know someone at least cares about my predicament (which actually does help the spirits).
But eventually, along came a good Samaritan (or he might have been with the Red Cross, I don't know!) by the name of Ewan (though I may have chosen the wrong spelling). Anyhoo, he proceeded to spend probably half an hour or so assisting me with the puncture. Despite our efforts it was still deflating so I had to walk the final mile home, hoping my road cleats would survive the pavement.
So, once again, thank you Ewan for demonstrating the spirit of the roadie which I try to follow myself. All the best for your Maggie's charity Bike n Hike! :)
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