I decided to do the Great North Bike Ride on 29th August 2009.

To raise the bar a bit I am going to ride it on this nice but rather neglected bike. It is about my age, and has not been ridden at all for the past few years. I bought it for 15 pounds, and I am not going to change anything on it but will make sure it is safe to ride and put a rack on.

Its a 1970's Eddy Merkx bicycle, made in England from 'gaspipe' ie not very good tubing.

I took it for its first ride in years today. After pumping up the tyres, I took it out of the house. The chain hopped off white I attempted to get on it. After I fiddled the chain back on, I rode for 30 metres, the derailer going 'clack-krrrrck!' then the chain jumped off again. Once I had cycled to the end of my street, it seemed to enjoy being out.

I shall think of something wacky and true 1970's style. I will be trying to make a bit of money for MSF. I might even put some picture of me in tight lycra on :). In a bit.