Rules, rules rules (22 May 2012)

Four men (rarely has a term been used so loosely), three bikes, 900 and something miles and nine nights away. A recipe for arguments, for relentless taking of the Mickey and possibly, even, for the odd finger wagging 'good talking to'....

And so it seems right, proper and sensible (and good health and safety risk management) that Team Upside Down have some rules by which we'll play. Now these are not, by any means, exhaustive but are our top eight and give a sense I think as to how we should approach these coming few days together. 

Rule #1

Enjoy the ride, the banter and the fresh air.

Rule #2

It's not a race, so take time to appreciate the journey.

Rule #3

Take it in turns to take the headwind (or hope and pray there isn't one)

Rule #4

Take lots of photos, and smile when being photographed. Thumbs up are good too, but only one thumb at a time and hold on tight with the other hand whilst doing so.

Rule #5

Warn fellow riders of hazards/obstructions or slow moving vehicles (tractors, milk floats, Pete) up ahead.

Rule #6.

Don't be too much of a hero to say "Guys, I need to stop for a rest".

Sub-rule #6.1 - Make sure such a request is not within 3 miles of the previous stop.

Rule #7

Help one another in the event of a breakdown, puncture, saddle adjustment etc*. and give one another lots of encouragement on those long hills (particularly those going up).

Rule #8

Appreciate our roady, Paul, and his support to making this happen and don't get too cross when struggling up a mountain pass and he sweeps casually by in the car, waving...

*This help does not extend to the application of chamois cream, sudocrem or other protective subtances against saddle sore.