This morning was a little stressful as my wheels were looking a little square, so I tried to make better but ended making the rear one look like a traffic cone. The only way it would spin is if I took the brake pads out, so, out they came! No brakes!!!!! Livin on the edge!! We started a little later at 9.40 but went on our way. Martin stopped at the commando memorial, I tipped my hat in respect but cracked on. The first 15 miles went by without any drama, didn't have to use my brakes so that was good. We were still on the A82 (all yesterday and most of today) and it is by far the best road I have been on. I Guess in a car it could be frustrating but on a bike, nearly perfect. If the surface was good all the way it would be. We rode past Loch Lochy, they must have run out of names for that loch, there avin a laugh with that name! Still beautiful scenery of course, then we came to Loch Ness, very nice, highlight for me was 2 fighter jets ripping it just above the loch and tree line, amazing sight.
Lunch wad served by Rab C. Victor Meldrew then the last 22 miles of the day that included a climb that "only the determined would complete". Well yes it was a little nasty but it was certainly not as bad as I thought it would be, nowhere near as bad as some on Dartmoor, perhaps I'm fitter now and more able as well but it was good to get to the top none the less. Martin was there waiting as he climbs quicker than me, perhaps he has a 3 stone advantage!!!! The last few miles had a few decents that had me hoping I wouldn't have to brake, luckily today, braking has been on a minimum. Happy days! We reached our nights b&b in Dingwall and I headed straight to the cycle shop in town. The shop is called Dryburgh cycles. Mark the proprietor was so helpful and couldn't do enough to help.. He straightened my wheels, fixed the rear brake and even looked at martin's front wheel as well. Customer service of the highest order. Many thanks Mark, you've helped a no braked square wheeled cyclist on his way! Top man.
2 days to go, get in... Love to Nats, I miss you.