Matilda hands over her bidons to the younger generation after a decade of dedicated service.

On my new tandem holder in my cozy garage at Matildas Rest as I hand over my bidons to e-Matilda!

So the time has come, dear faithful fans and readers of my #tandem blog …

It’s time for a tandem #Coronation – the crowning of a new tandem era.

With a lump in my throat, and a bit of a tear in my eye, it is time for me, the “old lady” classic Jack Taylor tandem to hand over my bidons to the younger generation and gracefully retire after a decade of dedicated service to my dynamic crew.

I am also passing over my laptop, and thus the important mantle of being “the UK’s only blogging tandem” to the next generation – to the Gepida Bikes Thoris Voyage e-tandem (click link for full details) with not one, but two 500Wh batteries, and the Bosch e-Bike Systems Performance CX 250w motor, which was custom built and supplied by the wonderful JD Tandems in Gargrave, North Yorkshire.

So why the decision to pass the blog baton over to the younger generation? Well whisper it, but this “old lady” classic Jack Taylor tandem is actually fully on side with Team Matilda’s big decision to buy a battery-assist e-tandem. As an original heavy steel framed tandem,  I know only too well that old age brings its increasing mechanical problems – just as my dynamic crew are discovering that the passing years always seem to throw up some more health and fitness issues. Being older than my dynamic crew of the “old git” and the “old gal”, I am also aware that (like them!) I am not getting any lighter!

And it was actually me who suggested the new kid on the block be named e-Matilda for continuity purposes to easily retain the Matildas Musings name on this blog, and also on my Facebook, Twitter and You Tube social media sites; and that therefore my dynamic crew be known as Team e-Matilda, in a nod to my legacy!

I have officially handed over my bidons to the younger generation – in the shape of e-Matilda.

The blog will obviously continue, but as I enter retirement – on my comfy new tandem holder on the wall of the cozy garage at Matilda’s Rest – it is time for a period of reflection in my final blog post about life with my dynamic crew.

We have had so much fun over the last decade as Team Matilda – with our (hopefully) amusing adventures which amazingly often seem to focus on the food and drink experiences en route (I wonder why?!) – that I am sure you won’t grudge me a bit of self indulgence in my swansong from the blog.

My Matildas Musings blog was launched as my dynamic crew discovered the joy of doubling up on a bicycle made for two – getting that fabulous buzz of cycling along together in synchronicity (well at least sometimes!) on the one “double bike” frame – something that can’t be replicated on solo bike, or “half bike” as tandemers call them!

So lets remember where the story began…

Showing that romance is not dead, two crazy 50-somethings – ie the “old git” and the “old gal” – hired a tandem bike back in July 2012 to break the ice and remove any awkwardness on their first blind date (yes, really!!) at Loch Katrine. It was certainly one of those quirks of fate moments – reminiscent of the movie “Sliding Doors” – as they fell in love with a new hobby, and each other!

The “old git” and “old gal” on a hired tandem on that fateful first date at Loch Katrine.

As two reluctant singletons my dynamic crew found me, quickly decided to buy me – and named me Matilda – to have a “something different” hobby for weekend trips while dating. So I can claim to be a matchmaking tandem – a match made in heaven according to the “old git”!! – and the rest as they say is history!

Just a few months later, in May 2013 my dynamic crew decided this was the life they wanted so the “old git” gave up city life in Glasgow and they moved into a new house together in Auchterarder – complete with me (essentially their “baby”) in the garage – known as Matildas Rest.

A shot of me on the day my dynamic crew bought me – and named me Matilda!

And I am happy to say I became a huge part of their new lives together – or as the “old gal” would say: “there are three of us in this marriage!” – as we explored some of the most spectacular and remote scenic areas in their home county of Perthshire and other parts of Scotland. there were even tours south of the border to Englandshire and also Europe!

Over the last decade Team Matilda has clocked up nearly 8000 miles together, in (mostly!) harmonious tandeming! So for old times sake, here is a selection of photos I have personally chosen from our Team Matilda adventures from each of the last 10 years, plus highlights of our tandem tours. I hope you enjoy rekindling the memories of some madcap fun trips, as much as I did. Naturally, as a bit of a diva, and the star of the Matildas Musings show, I have chosen photos which include me!

Don’t forget you can click on any of the images to enlarge them.

2014

A grainy shot of Team Matilda on a return pedal at the scene of the fateful blind date at Loch Katrine!

The “old gal” and “old git” actually looking very young at Balmaha Pier at spectacular Loch Lomond.

2015

Three steel icons together! Here I am in a photo at the iconic Kelpies statues near Falkirk.

Feeling festive – my dynamic crew fitted me with colourful Christmas lights!

2016

Just off the CalMac ferry on one of Team Matilda’s regular trips over the years to Millport.

Perfectly framed – the “old gal” pictured me posing underneath a rainbow at wilderness Loch Rannoch.

2017

Flying the flag for Scotland – one of Team Matilda’s social media profile images.

Me and my dynamic crew at Tullibardine Chapel for the Christmas Carol service.

2018

Team Matilda at RSS Discovery in Dundee in front of the new V&A Museum.

A spectacular sun-kissed picnic spot at Loch Clunie near Dunkeld.

2019

Paying homage to Scotland’s national bard – Robert Burns – at Burns Cottage in Alloway.

Overlooking the Cowal Peninsula after the climb out of Tighnabruaich on the epic Five Ferry Challenge.

2020

Cheers! Toasting a fab ride round Loch Rannoch from Tighnavon Glamping Pods at Kinloch Rannoch

Taking in the view at the beautifully scenic Falls of Dochart at Killin.

2021

One of my best photos – Team Matilda enjoying the view at Castle Stalker near Oban.

A fun tandem meet at a blowy Saltcoats beach with the other ‘Tilly the tandem crewed by Jon and Linda

2022

This was the year of my proudest moment over the last decade – having a key role in my dynamic crew’s epic marriage ceremony on Team Matilda’s favourite sun-kissed beach on their beloved Scottish destination of Millport. After being instrumental in my dynamic crew gelling as a team – with the “old git” and “old gal” becoming synchronised with each other’s foibles both on and off the saddles – it was a huge honour to be effectively the alter for the ceremony. I am happy to admit I did shed a tear or two as they exchanged their vows and wedding rings over my trusty frame! Job done!

Proud to be the alter as my dynamic crew exchange their vows and rings at their wedding ceremony.

Very happy to be at the centre of the “old git” and the old gal’s” wedding on sun-kissed Millport.

Just married! Team Matilda at our favourite beach spot on Millport, looking like the Caribbean.

2023

Pictured at Kinkell Bridge – a very meaningful place for the “old gal”

One of my last outings with the “old gal” and the “old git” at Carnoustie beach.

Team Matilda’s overseas tours

Pre-Covid, and before Brexit, Team Matilda were regular visitors to Europe – mainly mini Tours de France – where strangely enough the itineraries just happened to involve tandem tours through the wonderful French vineyards, with numerous tastings en-route! These were very special memories where I happily embraced the French joie de vivre, alongside the “old gal” and the “old git”.

2014 – Tour de Burgundy

Enjoying the French way of life on our first Tour de France in Burgundy at Chateauneuf en Auxois.

Blissful sunny days enjoying wonderful tandem rides between vineyards along the canal near Dijon.

The “old gal” and me checking the route at the serenely memorable Bligny sur Ouche.

2015 – Tour de Bordeaux

Superb memories for me touring the vineyards of Bordeaux – here at the wine capital of St Estephe

I’m cooling in the shade at one of my dynamic crew’s yummy wine picnics at St-Christoly-Medoc.

The amazing Atlantic wave breakers at the scenic beach at Soulac sur Mer.

2016 – Tour de Loire Valley

In the Vouvray vineyards highlighting the t-shirt message: “We’re here for the ride … and the wine!”

It’s not all plain pedalling – I’m ungainly turned upside down for a puncture repair at Noizay.

Drookit! – Team Matilda in (un)fetching blue ponchos after being hit by biblical rain at Chateau d’Usse.

2017 – 3 part Euro Tour – Tour de Holland, Tour de Alsace, Tour de Champagne

At Marken lighthouse not far from Amsterdam – with ironic king of mountain jerseys as it was so flat!

Now that’s what my dynamic crew call a perfect stop for a fizz picnic in the Alsace.

The Dom Perignon statue at Moet & Chandon hq on the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay.

Nutty Tandemers Club Tours

Some of my fondest sociable tandem memories were when Team Matilda teamed up with their “best pals” Jane Termini Taylor and John Taylor – as fellow founding (and only!) members of the self proclaimed and highly exclusive Nutty Tandemers Club.

Jane and John have the same nutty attitude to riding a tandem as my dynamic crew – including a likeing for the odd bottle of prosecco. Indeed The Nutty Tandemers prosecco picnics, while out on a pedal, have become legendary!

There has been an annual tour of some description every year since the two tandem crews first ventured out on a joint trip back in 2016 – and of course Jane and John happily fulfilled the honours of being the official witnesses to my dynamic crew’s wedding.

2016 – Tour de Perthshire

One of the first Nutty Tandemers prosecco picnics with Jane and John at Loch Katrine.

All smiles from the Nutty Tandemers on their first tour – at Stronachlachar Pier in the Trossachs.

Sunny t-shirt weather for the Nutty Tandemers during a trip to wonderful Loch Rannoch.

2017 – Tour de New Forest

Visiting the impressive giant Redwood trees at Rhinefield in the New Forest National Park.

The self-proclaimed Nutty Tandemers on the headland above Lepe beach.

See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil – This pose is now an annual Nutty Tandemers photo ritual!

2018 – (mini) Tour de Perthshire

Jane and the “old gal” – the powerhouse tandem Stoker’s  – preparing a prosecco toast at Trinity Gask.

The Nutty Tandemers posing for a mirror image shot at the Brig at Bridge of Earn.

Time for a refreshment stop (again!) for the tandem crews – this time at the Kirkstyle Inn at Dunning.

2019 – Tour de Hebridean Way

At the start of the HebWay at Vatersay – 185 miles, 10 islands, 6 causeways and 2 ferries to go!

Jane and the “old gal” indicating their intentions (fuelled by gin Martini) at Tarbert.

Mission complete! The Nutty Tandemers complete their HebWay Challenge at Butt of Lewis lighthouse.

2020 – Tour de Worcs & Warks

Tandem Captains’ toast! John and the “old git” say cheers to the 2020 tour at Beacon Hill.

The Nutty Tandemers enjoying the sun at the wharf on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal.

Nutty fun! A prosecco toast to mark the end of the tour at Shell Ford. Spot Jane with prosecco bottle!

2021 – Tour de Suffolk

At Flatford Mill in Suffolk, the scene of the famous Constable painting, The Hay Wain.

The Suffolk villages were beautiful, like this photo of the Nutty Tandemers bikes in Woolpit.

One of Team Matilda’s top Nutty Tandemers images – all collapsing into laughter at the end of the tour.

2022 – Tour de Millport for Wedding Celebrations

The Nutty Tandemers scouting out the beach location in the sun the day before the wedding.

Newly married – the “old gal” and the “old git” with Jane and John who were the official witnesses.

The moving ceremony in an idyllic location made Jane and the “old gal” share a hug and shed a tear.

So, as I come to the end of my last post, it has been a huge privilege to write this blog over the years, helping to promote the cause of tandem cycling in the UK and abroad. The blog has global appeal with readers as far away as South America, New Zealand, China, and the Yukon – as well as right across Europe … even after the Brexit disaster!

And it has been wonderful to have all the fabulous feedback and supportive comments from fellow tandemers and cyclists everywhere … who got the joke, and who always looked forward to the next installment of my dynamic crews trials and tribulations on a bicycle made for two!

The Tandem Club logo – promoting that riding a tandem is “twice the fun!”

The “old git” was even asked to run the social media for the Tandem Club UK on the back of my superb writing and publicity skills no less – promoting the fact that tandeming is “twice the fun” message on the club’s Facebook and Twitter feeds, growing the Facebook group to a fabulous 3,500 members. It’s got to be said, the “old git” (like me!) does have an eye for publicity and promotions and is not too bad at this writing lark himself!

My personal highlight of the last decade before my retirement? Well there have been too many to narrow down to just one! But I am particularly proud of being the only Scottish finalist in the UK Blog Awards when out of 2,000 entries I reached the final 10 in the “most innovative” blog category.

One of my proudest moments was being named a finalist in the UK Blog Awards

And of course, I did become a bit of a media star with Team Matilda’s tandeming adventures frequently being featured in newspapers, magazines, and on radio – and television. Oh the memories! Those were heady days indeed!

Me and the “old git” doing at interview for BBC Radio Scotland’s “Out of Doors” programme.

So although it is time for my graceful retirement, I know you will be in good hands with e-Matilda. She has told me as much in our chats in the garage at Matildas Rest – where I have given her the complete lowdown on the many idiosyncrasies of the “old gal” and especially the “old git” so the new generation e-tandem can continue to write Matildas Musings with the same self-deprecating humour to entertain you dear readers!

So, its “au revoir” from me, Matilda – but let’s all say a warm “bonjour” to e-Matilda and make her feel welcome as she takes over my bidons, as well as my laptop! I feel sure the switch will be as seamless as one of my Captain’s gear changes!

Its “au revoir” from me, Matilda – but “bonjour” to     e-Matilda as she takes over my bidons and laptop!

I look forward, as I am sure you do, to continue to read about the what scrapes and (mis)adventures the “old gal” and “old git” get up to on the saddles of an e-bicycle made for two!

If the past decade is anything to go by – it will certainly not all be plain sailing – or even tandeming, that’s for certain! I won’t miss the many “discussions” between my Captain and Stoker – well, ok I will! But you know, I am actually going to be quite glad of a quieter, restful retirement here in the garage – safe in the knowledge that I can say to e-Matilda: “I told you so!”

Here’s to Team e-Matilda continuing to live the life of their twin mottos of “It’s the Smiles not the miles that count” and “It’s always better when we’re tandeming together”!

It’s been a blast ! – à bientôt !

It’s “au revoir” from me – at Millport, one of my favourite places – It’s been a blast!  à bientôt !

First anniversary trip to Millport for Team e-Matilda to celebrate their wedding on the beach!

A romantic Team e-Matilda kiss to celebrate the anniversary at the very spot of their beach wedding.

This blog is the story of my dynamic crew having a truly epic first anniversary “overseas” trip to Millport to celebrate their amazing wedding on the beach a year ago.

The three day trip saw the “old git” and the “old gal” – accompanied by e-Matilda – returning to the “scene of the crime” for a mini break to celebrate their nuptials. There was also lots of madcap fun photo frolics as Team e-Matilda tried to recreate a number of their stunning wedding photographs, with varying degrees of success!

There was really only one place that my crew could celebrate their anniversary – and thankfully the Isle of Cumbrae lived up to its “Costa del Millport” reputation with some tropical sunshine!

So it was up early on the Sunday morning for a near 80 mile drive from Matildas Rest to the west coast town of Largs for the 10 minute Cal Mac ferries trip from the mainland.

Big excitement for my crew as they boarded the ferry with e-Matilda – the new Gepida Bikes Thoris Voyage e-tandem, some 9 feet high on the excellent e-tandem carrier supplied by JD Tandems.

e-Matilda 9 feet high on the e-tandem rack on Matilda Transport on the Cal Mac ferry to Millport.

Arriving on the island my crew immediately felt on holiday as the Isle of Cumbrae lives up to its slogan: “Millport – in a world of its own!”

The “old git” and “old gal” dropped their bags at the Old Bank luxury bed and breakfast – the venue where they stayed for the wedding a year ago.

Ready for the off –  e-Matilda outside the Old Bank luxury bed and breakfast.

A quick change, e-tandem off bike rack, a quick photo outside the Old Bank, and then a pedal anti-clockwise round the island for my crew to re-acquaint themselves with the wonderful coastal views all the way round the 10 mile perimeter of the island road.

You can check out the details of our e-tandem routes on Day 1 of our anniversary break by clicking on the Strava map below.

Millport is known as a cycling paradise due to the virtually flat and quiet circumference route. The round the island route is always very busy with visitors. It is not an official The National Cycle Network route –  but it certainly should be!

Back in the town my dynamic crew had a quick coffee at Crocodeli. Then they headed clockwise to Team Matilda’s fabulous “table with a view” – a picnic table which overlooks the spot that the “old git” and the “old gal” had their wedding ceremony. It is a wonderful beach – between Fintry Bay and Bell Bay on the island, with views across to Rothesay and Arran.

A fun wedding shot from a year ago – with Millport looking like the Caribbean in the sunshine.

The “old gal” pointing to the “scene of the crime” on the beach on the far side of Millport.

There was a bit more sunshine a year ago when my dynamic crew got married, but the cloudy weather didn’t stop Team e-Matilda having one of their signature prosecco picnics. Except, that as this was such a special occasion, there was a special bottle of pink champagne saved from my crew’s tandem tour of the Champagne region a few years ago. How apt!

E-Matilda sporting her la bouclee wine carrier with a bottle of pink fizz to celebrate the anniversary!

Team e-Matilda’s picnic lunch at their very special picnic bench overlooking the marriage spot.

The anniversary trip also coincided with what Team e-Matilda call their 11A – the 11th anniversary of the first contact between the “old gal” and the “old git” – so it was a double cause for celebration. And it proves that couples who tandem together, stay together!

First anniversary toast, and also 11A toast, overlooking the wedding beach! Cheers!

The romantic “old git” presented the old gal with her 11A card at the picnic lunch spot!

The “old gal” telling the “old git” to stop taking photos so she can taste the champagne!

The “old git” looking very pleased with our anniversary present to each other – e-Matilda!

After lunch my dynamic crew had a walk down to the actual spot on the beach where the ceremony took place, which brought back some wonderful memories.

A selfie on the beach at the waters edge, the spot for the wedding celebrations a year ago.

So after the fizz picnic celebrations, my crew continued their clockwise loop back into Millport town, for a loo stop and coffee and cake at The Dancing Midge Cafe.

Then it was time for the speed lap – a tradition when on Millport. The current record is 35 minutes and 01 seconds for a clockwise lap from the Millport Pier hotel (formerly known as the Royal George) set on a day with zero wind back on the 1st of August 2021 when my crew were much fitter than currently.

With there being quite strong winds, the “old git” knew breaking the record was unlikely – and so it turned out to be – with a time of 39 minutes and 06 seconds for the 10.02 mile circuit. But it was a good work-out!

So back to the Old Bank for showers and a rest. As a faithful Captain, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as an e-bike activity. The detailed figures showing my dynamic crew tandemed 30.29 miles with a moving time of 2 hours and 06 minutes. The average speed was 14.4 mph over the relatively flat terrain. Elevation was just 112 feet. The maximum speed was 21.1 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,240 calories and produce an average power output of 147 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

A great first day of my crew’s mini break came to an end with dinner – a mouth watering meal at the new Edwards at the Harbour restaurant – which focuses on seafood and steaks.

Day 2 dawned with the promise of sunshine in the afternoon. My crew were set up for the day after a great sleep on the mega comfortable beds at The Old Bank plus a hearty breakfast.

The plan for today was a warm-up lap of the circumference route then an attempt at going over the top on the Inner Circle route to test the benefits of the battery assist on e-Matilda, some more photo fun, then a final speed lap in the afternoon to try and improve on yesterday’s time.

You can check out the details of our e-tandem routes on Day 2 of our anniversary break by clicking on the Strava map below.

The first lap showed the “old git” and the “old gal” that the wind was still around – and they felt they had already earned a coffee stop at The Garrison cafe – part of the stylish building in the centre of the town which was once the Old Custom House.

The stylish Garrison building in Millport – the old Customs House.

After the coffee break it was time to tackle the torturous Inner Circle route – which features a Category 4 climb which hits a 13% rise in places. It was a great test for the battery assist as previously this is a route where Team Matilda had to get off and push.

Half way up the Category 4 Inner Circle route – smiles with the battery assist!

That’s quite a climb – nearing the top of the Inner Circle climb to the viewpoint.

But my crew made it to the top – with smiles at how (relatively) easy it was! The “old gal” was once again heard to mutter: “Why did we not get an e-bike years ago?!”

As for the “old git” he was delighted to see that (not surprisingly) Strava had awarded my crew new personal best records for the Millport to Glaid Stone and Breakthrough Farm to Glaid Stone sections.

The “old git” having a breather after the climb to the Glaid Stone – the highest point on the island.

At the top – at the Glaid Stone viewpoint,  which is the highest point on the island – there was fun as my crew decided to try and recreate one of their stunning wedding day photos – taken by the talented Amanda R Tennent Photography.

Fun at the Glaid Stone recreating a famous wedding day photo from a year ago!

The (in)famous wedding day photo from a year ago – just a bit sunnier!

The Inner Circle descent was a blast – and a good test for the disc brakes – with my crew breaking their own record for the downhill section while hitting speeds of over 30 mph.

Time for lunch, so team e-Matilda pedalled to the Fintry Bay patio cafe and restaurant where my crew enjoyed tasty tortadas. The views from the restaurant are just sensational – looking across to Rothesay and Arran. And the sun decided to come out to play which added to the appeal.

You’ve been framed! Frolics as the sun came out to play at Fintry Bay.

e-Matilda, a Gepida Thoris Voyage e-tandem at the fab Fintry Bay restaurant.

The “old gal” and the yellow broom in the bright afternoon sunshine.

A cycle back into Millport and a visit to the recommended Driftwood and Dahlia – a garden centre which features a superb wood workshop which makes home and garden furniture and accessories from driftwood and reclaimed wood.

After the “old gal” dropped her purchase of new plants off at the Old Bank, it was time for the speed lap. Having failed to beat the record of 35 minutes and 01 seconds the day before, the “old git” was more confident with the sun beating down. But there was still a wind.

And the verdict after a clockwise loop from the Pier Hotel was the stopwatch stopped at 37 minutes and 50 seconds – an improvement on the first attempt but still just under 3 minutes slower than my dynamic crew’s record. Guess Team e-Matilda will need to come back on a flat calm summer’s day when they are fitter!

Recovery time was spent enjoying the late afternoon sun on the pier which has great views down the Clyde estuary.

On the pier at Millport after the pedalling – amazing views and sunshine.

My dynamic crew also decided to recreate a wedding rings shot, using the benefit of the sun.

Wedding rings shot reflecting the clear blue sky – recreating another shot from a year ago.

The original wedding rings shot from the wedding ceremony on the beach.

On return to the Old Bank, The “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as an e-bike ride. The detailed figures showing my dynamic crew tandemed 31.37 miles with a moving time of 2 hours and 22 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 13.2 mph given the inclusion of the Category 4 Inner Circle climb. Elevation was 620 feet. The maximum speed was 31.0 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1471 calories and produce an average power output of 154 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Day two ended with a specially cooked private evening meal at the Old Bank – which offers Scottish hospitality at its very best.  It also rekindled some great memories of a year ago when Trish and Linda brilliantly  handled all the catering arrangements for the small wedding party at the Old Bank.

Private dining with a sea view! Super romantic dinner for two at the Old Bank.

Day 3 started with Millport looking tropical in the bright sunshine, but the wind had strengthened. So my dynamic crew decided on a relaxing day – with lots more photo fun – after another loop of the hilly Inner Circle. But the vote on whether to attempt another speed lap was a unanimous “no” from the “old git” and the old gal.” There just didn’t seem to be any point given the strong wind.

You can check out the details of our e-tandem routes on Day 3, the last day of our anniversary break by clicking on the Strava map below.

First up, the “old gal” wanted to make a purchase of the new Maura gin from the Isle of Cumbrae Distillers. Sadly the distillery was closed, but a bottle was sourced in the nearby supermarket as a souvenir of the anniversary trip.

Then the “old git” spotted that the iconic Crocodile Rock had been given its annual coat of paint and was looking quite splendid. Naturally both venues provided ideal photo opportunities in the sun.

Let the fun be-gin! The “old gal” at the fab gin distillery on the island.

One of the iconic attractions on Millport is Crocodile Rock – looking good after a paint job!

Next on the list of photos was a trip to the gardens of the Cathedral of the Isles in Millport, reputedly one of the smallest cathedral’s in Europe. This is where one of my dynamic crew’s favourite wedding photos was taken, amongst the trees and wild garlic.

Recreating a shot amongst the wild garlic in the Cathedral gardens.

The gorgeous original photo from a year ago – understandably a favourite.

Time for some cycling now as my dynamic crew headed up hill on the trying Inner Circle route, which is a Category 4 climb hitting 13% inclines. And it was much easier than yesterday – with Team e-Matilda again breaking their record for the Millport to Glaid Stone and Breakthrough Farm to Glaid Stone sectors.

The “old gal” taking in the spectacular views from the highest point on Millport.

Smiles from Team e-Matilda after the Category 4 climb to the Glaid Stone viewpoint.

The viewpoint was the venue for some sensational wedding day photos a year ago, so naturally my dynamic crew had to try to replicate one since the weather was almost identical.

Another fun replica wedding shot – the “old git” being Tarzan on the Glaid Stone.

The original Tarzan shot as part of the post-wedding photoshoot.

An enjoyable downhill blast took Team Matilda back down from the highest point at speeds of over 30 mph. A quick stop for coffee at The Garrison cafe almost turned into disaster as the “old gal” went over on her ankle, tripping down a small kerb step, on the way out.

My stoker was obviously in pain and the staff at the cafe immediately jumped into action to help, bringing an ice pack for some relief.

The trooper that she is, the “old gal” rallied and decided to continue with the schedule – albeit with a slower than planned pedal round to the beach where my crew got married. The plan this time was to take advantage of the Caribbean weather to recreate another of their favourite wedding day photos.

A selfie shot trying to replicate us walking away from the sea on the beach overlooking Rothesay.

And the actual wedding day shot – untouched showing just how tropical a day it was!

Team e-Matilda then found a lovely spot to sit and bask in the glorious sunshine, while romantically reading over the Order of Ceremony for their wedding service on the beach. Both the “old git” and “old gal” took the opportunity to re-visit their wedding vows and read them to each other. It was just a lovely moment as my crew reflected on a truly wonderful occasion – with both saying it was the best day of their lives!

Feeling buoyed by re-reading the vows, my dynamic crew decided a late lunch was in order and stopped again at the Fintry Bay restaurant – where again both the “old git” and “old gal” had delicious tortadas looking out at the simply stunning views.

After our late lunch, it was a slow pedal back into Millport for one last photo opportunity – trying to get a similar shot to one taken on a celebration ride the day after our wedding at the small boat slipway.

Not quite getting the angle right on this one – Team e-Matilda on the small boat slipway.

And the professional shot – at the correct angle. A year go, with no battery assist then!

Pictures done, it was time to put e-Matilda back on the tandem rack, get changed, say our farewells at the Old Bank, and head for the ferry slipway.

Back on the ferry, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as an e-bike activity. The detailed figures showing my dynamic crew tandemed a leisurely and modest 11.56 miles with a moving time of just 1 hours. The average speed was a sedate 11.6 mph. Elevation was 574 feet due to the Inner Circle climb. The maximum speed was 32.7 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 722 calories and produce an average power output of 180 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

After the short ferry crossing, it was a drive back to Matildas Rest to take e-Matilda off the roof carrier and unpack.

Thankyou Millport for what was quite simply a fabulous first wedding anniversary weekend trip on a bicycle built for two! And Team e-Matilda can’t wait to be back out in #tandem very soon. Here’s to the next blog!

New e-tandem weekend as my Matildas Musings crew take delivery of e-Matilda!

Excitement personified! – Team e-Matilda with the keys to their new e-tandem!

This blog is the story of my dynamic crew having a brilliant weekend – starting with a trip to the wonderful JD Tandems in Gargrave, North Yorkshire on Easter Saturday to collect and test ride their new e-Matilda; followed by Team Matilda’s first pedal from home on a blustery Easter Monday trip to Bridge of Earn.

The “old gal” and “old git” left home at silly early o’clock to drive to Gargrave where a brand spanking new e-tandem was waiting for them – built to their own specification.

There was massive excitement when my dynamic crew saw their new “baby” for the first time – a Gepida Bikes Thoris Voyage, (full details by clicking link) with not one, but two 500Wh batteries and the Bosch eBike Systems Performance CX 250w motor.

My crew had visited JD Tandems – whose customer service can’t be praised enough – three weeks before and had full test rides on three battery assist e-tandems, before choosing the Gepida.

You can read my blog about the test ride weekend by clicking here – and if you are thinking about taking the big plunge towards a battery assist tandem, then hopefully the blog will give you a definitive guide from fellow tandemers as to what to expect from your visit to JD Tandems.

So why the decision for Team Matilda to go for a battery assist e-tandem? Well whisper it but this “old lady” classic Jack Taylor tandem is actually on side with the decision as I know that old age brings its own mechanical problems – just as my dynamic crew are discovering that the passing years always seems to throw up some more new health and fitness issues. Being older than both my Stoker and Captain, I am also well aware that (like them!) I am not getting any lighter!

After a run down of all the equipment from the highly patient Jamie – despite fairly constant interruptions and questions from my Captain! – it was time to take e-Matilda out for an inaugural short test ride to make sure everything was working OK … but only after the ceremonial handing over the keys (for the batteries).

Handing over the keys – Jamie from JD Tandems does the honours!

You can check out the details of our exciting inaugural sunny short test ride route by clicking on the Strava map below.

My crew headed up hill on a suitably lumpy loop which took in a tasty lunch at the incredibly scenic and busy Town End Farm Shop & Tearoom.

Spring has sprung – new e-Matilda among the daffodils at Town End Farm Shop at Airton.

It’s all about the smiles after climbing some steep hills to Airton with battery assist.

The “old gal” enjoying her lunch at the tearoom at Town End Farm Shop.

My dynamic crew were glad they had  booked to secure a table, and it was good to see the venue attracting so many bikes – all solos. It clearly has a good reputation with cyclists out on their Saturday pedals. The location – at the top of a hill – gave an ideal spot for some photos of Team Matilda in their new Team Bahrain Victorious cycling tops!

The “old git” at Airton sporting the new Bahrain Victorious cycling tops for new e-tandem day!

Time for a quick smiley selfie after a tasty lunch at Airton.

Smart new e-tandem! The “old gal” is delighted to have battery assist!

Back to Gargrave for some very minor fine tuning to see our car had been fitted with the amazing new e-tandem carrier which JD Tandems sell. Time for an in-depth lesson from the equally patient John, going thru how to put e-Matilda on and off the roof.

The “old git” making sure e-Matilda is secure on the new e-tandem rack.

I am sure my crew will get the hang of it with a bit of practice – as initially it is quite daunting – but it is a great piece of kit!

Looks like the “old git” is going to have to invest in a set of small steps as his legs are pretty short and Matilda Transport is quite a high car! In fact the height from ground to handlebars when the tandem is on the roof is no less than 9 feet!

Ready for the journey back to Matilda’s Rest. 9 feet high – watch out for low barriers!

Thanks again to Ruth, John and Jamie for their patience at the highly recommended JD Tandems. Nothing was too much trouble for them. Their service has to be experienced to be believed. Quite simply, think of any superlative then take a step up.

My crew then drove back to Matildas Rest full of excitement about their new purchase.

Unfortunately the trip to Gargrave meant my crew were unable to join the Tandem Club AGM happening at the Easter Rally – but I think collecting a new e-tandem is a good enough excuse!

As a faithful Captain, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as an e-bike ride. The detailed figures showing my dynamic crew tandemed a modest 10.5 miles with a moving time of 51 minutes. The average speed was 12.1 mph over the lumpy terrain. Elevation was 841 feet. The maximum speed was 34.4 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 797 calories and produce an average power output of 230 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Easter Sunday dawned and my dynamic crew’s first job was to remove e-Matilda from the bike rack – then fit all the panniers and gadgets like Captain’s Elemnt Roam on board computer. He even found a spot for my La Bouclée prosecco carrier for future picnics!

New e-Matilda outside Matildas Rest fully kitted up with new panniers and kit.

My dynamic crew made sure there was room for their personalised water bottles!

The Bosch Intuvia on-board computer and the Elemnt Roam.

No ride on Sunday as my Stoker had a rather important event to attend – her daughter’s baby shower.

Heavy rain fell on Monday morning meaning my crew thought a ride on Easter Monday wasn’t going to happen with the forecast for a wet day. But mid morning the rain surprisingly stopped and my crew decided they would head out in the afternoon for their first pedal from home on e-Matilda.

The destination was Bridge of Earn as it is a hilly route and my dynamic crew wanted to test the battery assist. As it turned out, it was very windy so it really was a good test!

The sun unexpectedly came out to play as the rain stopped – but it was windy!

You can check out the details of our first pedal on new e-Matilda from home by clicking on the Strava map below.

My crew literally flew along on the outward leg, helped by a tail wind. It is a scenic country roads route thru Forteviot where there was a fab picture opportunity at the Cradle of Scotland- A Stone for Forteviot in the centre of the small village of Forteviot, which is an ancient Pictish capital of Scotland.

The “old gal” giving a thumbs up to e-Matilda at the Cradle of Scotland stone in Forteviot.

Team e-Matilda selfie time at Forteviot, an ancient Pictish capital of Scotland.

In no time we were at our destination of Bridge of Earn and dropped into a busy The Earn Coffee Shop for some welcome coffee and cake.

Coffee and cake stop at the half way point – The Earn Coffee Shop in Bridge of Earn.

The “old gal”, aka Stoker, with new e-Matilda at The Brig at Bridge of Earn.

The “old git”, aka Captain, gives his thumbs up verdict on the new e-tandem at The Brig.

The return leg was obviously a bit tougher – given my crew’s lack of tandeming fitness – but the battery-assist was brilliant in helping to battle a ferocious 18mph headwind.

On return to Matildas Rest, The “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as an e-bike ride. The detailed figures showing my dynamic crew tandemed 27.7 miles with a moving time of 2 hours and 6 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 13.2 mph given the hilly, testing route. Elevation was 1,467 feet. The maximum speed was 31.1 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,649 calories and produce an average power output of 195 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

The verdict of my dynamic crew – e-Matilda is just fantastic and is going to transform Team e-Matilda’s tandem experiences! So it is a huge thumbs up and both the “old git,” and especially the “old gal,” had huge smiles on their faces during the rides!

Spot the huge smiles on my dynamic crew’s faces after the first pedal from home.

Team e-Matilda can’t wait to be back out in #tandem very soon. Here’s to the next blog!

Mini weekend break to test ride three potential new e-Matildas at JD Tandems

My Stoker and Captain enjoying the e-assist tandem. The smiles show just how good it is!

Matildas Musings – the UK’s only blogging tandem is back … after an 18 month hiatus!

Read more about the gap in our #tandem blogs at the end of this post, but for now this blog is the story of my dynamic crew having fun on a brilliant mini weekend test riding potential e-Matildas at the wonderful JD Tandems in Gargrave, North Yorkshire – aided by our super fellow #NuttyTandemers Jane Termini Taylor and John Taylor.

The “old git” and the “old gal” left home early on Friday morning and met John and Jane in Gargrave where the plan was to have shortish test pedals on three battery assist e-tandems Team Matilda had identified as being potentially suitable.

So why the decision to go for an electric assist tandem? Well whisper it but this “old lady” classic Jack Taylor tandem is actually on side with the decision as I know that old age brings its own mechanical problems – just as my dynamic crew are discovering that the passing years always seems to throw up some more health and fitness issues. Being older than both my Stoker and Captain, I am also well aware that (like them!) I am not getting any lighter!

And if you are thinking about taking the big plunge towards a battery assist tandem, then hopefully this blog will give you a definitive guide from fellow tandemers as to what to expect from your visit to JD Tandems.

You can check out the details of our e-tandem routes on Day 1 of our test ride weekend by clicking on the Strava map below.

The first was the Gepida Bikes Thoris Voyage, (full details by clicking link) and we set off in unexpected sunshine on a suitable lumpy (hilly) 10 mile loop to Town End Farm Shop & Tearoom at Airton.

Smiles from my dynamic crew on the Gepida Thoris Voyage at Town End Farmshop and Cafe at Airton.

The verdict from my Stoker was a huge thumbs up, having never been on any e-bike before. My Captain was also suitably impressed. The intuitive top of the range Bosch power assist was just amazing as my dynamic crew sailed up hills we would have been pushing up even at our fittest!

The Gepida up close.  Only one battery on test model. 2023 models have 2 x 500wh batteries.

Sadly no table for coffee and cake inside as it was a busy lunchtime, but suitable take-out supplies were purchased and enjoyed outdoors.

No tables inside on a busy lunchtime, but plenty of room outside for coffee and cake!

The return to base at JD Tandems’ workshop was equally fun, before a full debrief from the highly knowledgeable team on the positives and negatives of the bike before a quick loo stop and being presented with the second option for a test pedal.

Thumbs up and smiles from my Stoker on the Gepida back at JD Tandems.

Second up was the pre testing weekend favourite of my Captain – the Moustache Samedi 27 – on a repeat of the first loop back to Town End Farm Shop and Cafe. But very quickly this e-tandem was dubbed “the beast” as my crew found it much heavier and more difficult to control.

My Stoker with Moustache!!!! This e-tandem was quickly dubbed “the beast”!

The Moustache Samedi 27 at Town End Farm Shop and Cafe on the 2nd circuit

It’s all a matter of personal choice of course – and many people are absolutely delighted with their Moustache bikes. It just didn’t feel right for Team Matilda – despite the pre conceived idea that it would be best, based on nothing more than on-line reviews. And of course that is the whole point of doing multiple tests of different e-tandem options in person.

Testing the different e-tandem options in person provided lots of fun and laughs for my crew!

The third test ride of the day was on JD Tandems’ own brand Orbit Velocity Electric Assist Steps E8000. The Nutty Tandemers crews decided on a slightly different and shorter route to Hetton.

Ready to set off on test ride 3 – on the Orbit Velocity Electric Assist Steps E8000.

My crew were impressed with the Orbit, more so than the Moustache. But as my Stoker said: “It’s a bit like riding original Matilda – but with a battery fitted; and no other comfort or additional advantages.” My Captain agreed, mentioning if felt very rigid.

The Orbit Velocity. A bit like original Matilda, but with a battery fitted!

The Orbit was the second favourite, but my crew’s minds were now made up on the Gepida when we returned to JD’s premises.

After the Orbit debrief with Jamie, Ruth and John, a chat followed about altering and tweaking a few things on the test ride Gepida model – like saddles, grips and pedals – for a planned longer test ride on the Saturday on a bike more or less to our personal specification.

The Nutty Tandemers crew’s then retired to their base for the night at the Premier Inn Skipton North Gargrave where we celebrated the days amazing test rides with some prosecco – before a walk to the nearby The Old Swan for a well deserved and tasty evening meal. A wonderful hospitable way to end the first day of our test ride mini weekend.

The Nutty Tandemers enjoying drinks and dinner at The Old Swan in Gargrave.

Back at the Premier Inn, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worth six gongs – made up of three personal bests; and three 2nd bests.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 28.3 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 25 minutes. The average speed was 11.8 mph given the lumpy conditions. Elevation was 2,203 feet. The maximum speed was 34.5 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 2,201 calories and produce an average power output of 228 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Saturday, Day 2 of our test ride weekend,  started with breakfast at the unique The Dalesman Cafe & Sweet Emporium / Gertrude’s Vintage Gardenalia in Gargrave before the tandem crews returned to JD Tandems to collect the now personalised Gepida for a full test ride.

You can check out the details of our e-tandem routes on Day 2 of our test ride weekend by clicking on the Strava map below.

Jane decided that a somewhat testing (very hilly almost mountainous!) 19 mile return trip to Burnsall with 1800 feet of elevation would be an ideal route to test the battery assist in the Gepida.

Stoker enjoying herself on the Gepida Thoris Voyage – our new e-Matilda of choice.

And she certainly was correct as my crew beat the challenge with relative ease. Of course you still have to pedal, and the “old git” and “old gal” were still out of puff. But Team Matilda climbed every hill on The National Cycle Network Route 688 that my crew would have had to walk up before … even at our strongest. One of the best things was there were huge smiles back on my crew’s faces!

Jane shot a video of us just after cresting the top of one of the climbs, and enjoying a bit of downhill action. You can click here to view the video, or click on the image below.

All great apart from my Captain’s operator error with Strava, which saw the outward journey not recorded. Oh how he laughed at the half way coffee stop!

My Captain at Burnsall before he discovered the Strava operator error (his!)

That coffee stop was at the very welcoming Riverbank Burnsall, where there was an excellent discussion amongst the Nutty Tandemers about the benefits of battery assist tandems. A comment often repeated was: “Why didn’t we do this before?!”

The Nutty Tandemers having a welcome coffee stop at Riverside Burnsall.

Stoker, Captain and John deep in discussion about the merits of an e-tandem!

Back  at JD Tandems – highly recommended doesn’t even begin to be enough praise.

So back to sign the deal with Ruth and John at JD Tandems – after going thru everything to personalise the specification to our very individual requirements.

Nothing was too much effort, including bringing a brand new Gepida Thoris Voyage out of its box to check a few things on the new 2023 model, which has 2 x 500w batteries for extended range!

Stoker with our brand new Gepida – which is going to be built to our own personal specification.

So the paperwork is signed and we now await our new e-Matilda being built. Fingers crossed that we will pick up on Easter Saturday! It is soooo exciting and going to be transformational!

Team e-Matilda signing the paperwork, with John from JD Tandems.

Thanks to Ruth, John and Jamie at JD Tandems. The service was just exceptional … patiently answering every single one of Captain’s questions! Think of any superlative and then take a step up. The business cannot come any more highly recommended. Thanks also to our fellow Nutty Tandemers, John and Jane, for coming along to help make it easy for Team Matilda.

Before heading back to Matilda’s Rest, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride – but, as previously mentioned, was compromised by only recording the return journey.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 9.4 miles with a moving time of 47 minutes. The average speed was an encouraging 11.9 mph given the very hilly conditions. Elevation was 858 feet. The maximum speed was 30.1 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 783 calories and produce an average power output of  248 W.

Jane and John’s Strava record – outbound and inbound – showed that the Nutty Tandemers tandemed a total distance of 18.8 miles with a moving time of 1 hour 42 minutes. The average speed was 11.0 mph. Elevation was 1,832 feet. The maximum speed was 31.3 mph.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

It was quite simply a marvelous weekend – and a great way to decide exactly which e-tandem suits the needs of my Stoker and Captain. Stay tuned for blogs about delivery and our first rides on the new e-Matilda. Team (e)Matilda can’t wait!

Don’t forget to look out for updates on our tandem adventures on my Matildas Musings social media feeds on Facebook, Twitter and Youtube feeds.

A final note on the 18 month gap between this blog and my previous one.  Suffice to say my dynamic crew has had an enforced layoff after being bogged down with a number of life changing family illnesses and issues, followed by my stoker suffering a serious leg injury in an accident.

So please excuse my lack of blogging activity over that period as Team Matilda simply didn’t feel comfortable blogging about fun happy adventures in tandem when there were some pretty serious issues to get their heads round.

So why a re-launch? Well after a few tentative rides on Matilda, and our recent test ride weekend on new e-tandems, my dynamic crew thought the time was right to get back to some much needed light hearted blog writing.

A quick precis if you are new to this blog (or if you have forgotten!): Matildas Musings is a blog written by Matilda, originally the “old lady” classic Jack Taylor tandem – and her Musings about her adventures, trials and tribulations with her “dynamic crew” – the “old git” and Captain, aka Colin, and the “old gal” and Stoker (as well as Chief Engineer) aka Diane.

Blogging tandem Matilda writes Musings about her adventures on the road on a bicycle made for two – focusing on tourism and food & drink experiences en route in Scotland and abroad!

So if this is your first time, Team Matilda sincerely hope you find the adventures of the UK’s only blogging tandem entertaining – and that our self-deprecating humour makes you smile – while finding something that you (as non-professional non-lycra-clad fun-loving fellow tandemers) can relate to!

So here’s to the next blog!

Testing new trainers and brakes on pedal to Dunblane and Bridge of Allan

First outing for the new day-glo branded orange Team Matilda trainers from adidas!

This blog is the story of my dynamic crew having lots of laughs and fun on a Sunday #tandem ride testing new trainers and brakes on a pedal to Bridge of Allan and Dunblane.

There’s not long to go till Team Matilda heads south of the border for the #NuttyTandemers Tour de Suffolk so this ride was used to test out a couple of essential things!

So my dynamic crew decided on a pedal to Bridge of Allan via Auchenlay and Dunblane. You can check out the details of our tandem route by clicking on the Strava map below.

This “old lady” tandem had been in at the “bike doctors” for a pre tour check-up and needed some work done to my brakes. My trusty personal Matilda surgeon John Richards of Richards Cycles in Perth fitted new V-brakes on my front and back wheels to give my dynamic crew some all-important new stopping power!

Seems the old brakes would have failed an MOT and were verging on dangerous! So the “old git” now has new V-brake levers on his handlebar, with the drum brake lever now moved to the “old gal’s” stoker handlebar – opposite her “placebo” additional rear brake lever!

My new front V-brakes fitted by my trusty personal bike surgeon John Richards of Richards Cycles.

New rear V-brakes fitted next to the “old gal’s” “placebo” auxiliary rear brake!

A new bottom bracket was also fitted to the “old git’s” crank as there was quite a bit of movement there.

So the undulating route to Bridge of Allan offered a perfect opportunity to test out the repairs – and the verdict was a resounding pass and a big success! The new V-brakes certainly have an added boost to confidence, tho took a little getting used to for the “old git” as they actually work immediately when the brake levers were applied, unlike the old brakes where braking in advance was a necessity! And my Captain also felt all his pedalling efforts were producing more power output as there was no travel in the bottom bracket.

The other “essential” new thing to be tested was new matching day-glo orange Team Matilda trainers which the “old git” had sourced from adidas. The trainers were specially personalised and colour coordinated for Team Matilda!

The trainers were specially personalised and colour coordinated for Team Matilda by adidas!

Team Matilda certainly won’t be difficult to see (or get lost) in their new bright orange trainers!

With orange trainers and orange helmets Team Matilda certainly won’t be difficult to see! And again the verdict on the new trainers – like the new brakes – was another big success!

Cycling thru Kinbuck on the back roads to Dunblane we once again took the more scenic route via Auchenlay. This continues till the Faery Bridge over the River Allan in Dunblane on the beautiful The National Cycle Network NCN Rt 765.

Dropping down thru Dunblane we headed to Bridge of Allan where we visited the wonderfully friendly La French Epicerie on the high street – a fabulous deli establishing itself as a great destination for all things French!

It was good to see owners Gregory and Corrine again – the couple who fell in love with Scotland on a family holiday from their original base in Lyon that they decided to uproot from France, and move to Scotland to set up their new business venture.

Regular readers of my blog will remember that the Epicerie stocks my dynamic crew’s favourite brand of mustard – Moutardes Fallot (Edmond Fallot). The “old gal” was obviously “as keen as mustard” to re-stock supplies and purchased a jar of all 8 of the different varieties! Yum!

There were also some purchases for my dynamic crew’s la pique-nique – a croque monsieur for the “old gal” and a traditional ham and Comte baguette for the old git” and a couple of slices of their sensational praline tart!

Perfect baguette carrier – rear view of the “old git”!

A quick walk round the corner found our regular bench with a river view to enjoy the goodies. But firstly a photo of the “old git” with a baguette in the pouch of his cycling jersey – as historically that’s what the back pockets were used to carry, in the days before energy gels!

Naturally la pique-nique had to have some added fizz, so my La Bouclée wine carrier provided the signature prosecco!

Very French! La pique-nique from La French Epicerie in Bridge of Allan.

And the sun burst thru the clouds and provided a lovely bit of heat to enjoy – so much so that the “old gal” indulged in a little Stoker’s snoozette power nap!

Snoozette power nap for the “old gal” after la pique-nique in the sunshine!

Re-fuelled and re-energised my dynamic crew headed off on the return leg, and amazingly as we pedalled thru Dunblane we spotted Another Tilly Tearoom! Naturally I had to have my photo taken at my very own tearoom!

This “old lady” tandem found my very own tearoom in Dunblane!

Why is it called “Another Tilly Tearoom” I hear you ask? Well it seems it is the sister establishment to the Tilly Tearoom in Tillicoultry!

Obviously I immediately thought of  my good friend “the other ‘Tilly the tandem” – crewed by Linda and Jon Reed, who Team Matilda have met now on a couple of rides, most recently from Irvine to Ardrossan  – as it seemed such a good fit for Team Tilly!

Now “my” tearoom seemed very busy as there was a big queue outside so my dynamic crew decided to put off sampling the coffee and cakes for another trip – and retired to the nearby Tappit Hen, Dunblane for a loo and refreshment stop!

There was time for an arty photo outside Dunblane Cathedral – which is just opposite the friendly pub – before pedalling back home.

Artistic shot of of me outside the historic Dunblane Cathedral.

It would need to be said that the return journey was somewhat easier than the last time my dynamic crew did this route, with the return leg being one of their more “interesting” rides as it followed a six hour lovely long languorous lunch at good friend Dot and Bill in Bridge of Allan! Perhaps not surprisingly Team Matilda even managed a few personal best times on the return pedal this time!

Back at Matildas Rest, and after getting his breath back, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worth a thoroughly pleasing 30 gongs – made up of no less than 12 personal bests; ten 2nd bests and eight 3rd bests.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 37.5 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 52 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 13.1 mph given the lumpy conditions. Elevation was 2,209 feet. The maximum speed was 32.2 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 2,448 calories and produce an average power output of  212 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Another great fun day out on a bicycle made for two – and new brakes and trainers fully tested and passed with flying colours ahead of the upcoming self-proclaimed Nutty Tandemers Club Tour de Suffolk with fellow founding members John Taylor and Jane Termini Taylor towards the end of September. Team Matilda can’t wait! Look out for updates on my social media feeds on Facebook and Twitter.

Super tandem along silvery Tay for luscious fresh farm strawberries at Port Allen and visit to new Pickled Peacock cafe at Cairn o’Mhor Fruit Winery

This “old lady” tandem and the silvery Tay – sensational views on NCN Rt 77.

This blog is the story of my dynamic crew having lots of laughs and fun on a super Sunday #tandem along the banks of the silvery Tay on The National Cycle Network Rt 77 for luscious fresh farm strawberries from Mains of Errol Fruit Shack at Port Allen and a visit to the new The Pickled Peacock café at Cairn o’Mohr Real Fruit Wines.

Another epic day out started with an early alarm call and after breakfast the “old git” and “old gal” headed to Dundee and parked Matilda Transport at the Tay Road Bridge Kiosk car park over the water from the city.

You can check out the details of our tandem route by clicking on the Strava map below.

After crossing the Tay, Team Matilda tandemed out of the city on the waterside Sustrans Scotland NCN 77 path – part of the The Green Circular cycle path which circumnavigates Dundee. After passing the airport Rt 77 passes thru Invergowrie where the River Tay opens up in front of you showing its true width and majesty. More of that on the way back!

With just a little breeze it was great conditions for tandeming along the quiet and relatively flat rural roads. Great to see so many other cyclists out – tho we failed to spot any other tandems!

We pedalled thru Errol Village before turning down a signposted track to our picnic destination of Port Allen. The “old gal” spotted the Mains of Errol Fruit Shack – an honesty mini hut shop selling freshly harvested strawberries.

It truly was from farm to fork in zero food miles – and as a result the strawberries were just lusciously sensationally fresh and flavorsome … providing the perfect accompaniment for one of my dynamic crew’s signature prosecco picnics in a true natural alfresco habitat!

The “lesser spotted” rose prosecco hiding in its “natural” habitat – complete with fresh strawberries.

Indeed the “old git” immediately added one of the smaller strawberries into the prosecco, so not only was it farm to fork, but farm to glass! “Extremely decadent – but very yummy” was the “old gal’s” verdict from the taste test! But only after exhaustive repeat testing just to make sure!

The “old gal’s” taste test of the ultra fresh strawberries from Mains of Errol Fruit Shack …

… the luscious zero food miles strawberries mixed perfectly with the pink prosecco! …

… and the “old gal’s” verdict after much tasting! – extremely decadent but very yummy!

Port Allen offered the idyllic picturesque picnic spot, sitting on a lovely bench featuring the wording “For what in Scotland can compare with the Carse o’Gowrie.” (The Carse o’Gowrie being the name for the renowned soft fruit growing area) And at that beautifully serene picnic moment – complete with those strawberries and the sun breaking thru – Team Matilda couldn’t agree more!

Luscious fresh farm to fork strawberries – the very best the Carse o’Gowrie can offer!

Cheers! Prosecco with a fresh strawberry from Mains of Errol Fruit Shack in the glass!

Amazingly given its solitude now, Port Allen historically was a bustling local harbour offering  a ferry crossing of the River Tay to Lindores in Fife. Records show that back in its heyday large quantities of grain were shipped from the port and around 200 people lived there in 1700s. The area is now a nature reserve with the reed beds proving the perfect venue for wildlife, in particular birds.

Enjoying the tranquility at Port Allen, with its reed beds now a nature reserve.

Team Matilda at picturesque Port Allen outside Errol – hard to believe it was once a bustling port.

After a most relaxing picnic Team Matilda pedalled on to the amazing idiosyncratic Cairn o’Mhor Fruit Winery just outside Errol to sample the delights of the new – and wonderfully named – Pickled Peacock café. The café has new owners along with a new name – with a sideways reference to the possibility of getting a little bit typsy from the fruit wines and cider made on the premises!

The “old gal” eyeing up the wooden “totem” sculptures at Cairn o’Mohr Real Fruit Wines!

And the menu looked fabulous – with great sharing plates – tho after their picnic my dynamic crew had to restrict themselves to sampling a slice of cheesecake with a nice strong coffee! And the whole winery and café is ultra bike friendly – and is therefore a favourite with cyclists.

The new The Pickled Peacock café  was worth a visit for fab cheesecake and coffee.

Naturally the “old git” had to visit the shop at the winery and purchased a bottle of Pictish cider for consumption at home at a later date! Well it would have been rude not to buy anything!

Here I am having a chat with the delivery vans at Cairn o’Mohr Real Fruit Wines!

After interrupting my very interesting chat with the smartly designed wine delivery vans, it was time for the “old gal” and “old git” to pedal back to Dundee – into a modest headwind as the tide was rushing back into the Tay estuary. There was a stop for pictures just before Invergowrie where the photos showed off the reality of the words from the famous poem by McGonagall about the “silvery Tay.”

The “old gal” reflecting on the words from the famous poem by McGonagall about “the silvery Tay”.

By the banks of the silvery Tay – Team Matilda enjoying the view across the river.

Despite the sun, the return crossing of the Tay Bridge was a bit blustery back to Matilda Transport. After I was safely packed away, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worth of a staggering 50 gongs – made up of a very pleasing 15 personal bests; 21 2nd bests and 14 3rd bests.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 33.9 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 33 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 13.3 mph given the wind. Elevation was just 689 feet as it was mainly along the banks of the river. The maximum speed was 35.6 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,489 calories and produce an average power output of 145 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Quite simply another great fun day out on a bicycle made for two!

Fab tandem round the beautiful wilderness Loch Rannoch and lunch at Rannoch Station Tea Room – probably the remotest tearoom in Scotland!

Ready for the ride – Team Matilda at the Kinloch Rannoch end of stunning Loch Rannoch.

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew had lots of fun on a stunning day out on a fab #tandem round the beautiful wilderness Loch Rannoch Rannoch & Tummel Tourist Association – with lunch at Rannoch Station Tearoom which is probably the remotest tearoom in Scotland.

Another epic day out started with an early 6am Sunday alarm and after breakfast the “old git” and “old gal” headed to the wilderness spot of Loch Rannoch in Highland Perthshire in Matilda Transport to clock up some miles pedalling in magnificent scenery in one of their favourite locations in Scotland.

And an added bonus is there is no wi-fi signal adding to the peaceful nature of the area – but the all-important Strava still works to record the effort!

You can check out the details of our tandem route by clicking on the Strava map below.

The drive to the village of Kinloch Rannoch was thru constant heavy drizzle and my dynamic crew were hopeful that the weather forecast would be correct – with the rain due to give way to sunshine by the back of 10am.

That didn’t happen quite on schedule, so to give the weather gods a bit more time to get back on track the “old gal” decided that it would be a great idea to visit the ultra bike friendly Riverbank Cafe for a relaxing strong coffee and a tasty fresh scone. The “old git” noticed some tandem and cycling themed coasters, and couldn’t resist a purchase!

Tandem and cycle themed drinks coasters bought from Riverbank Cafe at Kinloch Rannoch.

By the time my dynamic crew emerged the thick clouds were starting to lift and there was even a hint of the sun breaking through. So a bit later than planned Team Matilda set off down the north side of Loch Rannoch on the B846 heading to Bridge of Gaur at the other end. There was a quick photo stop at the Kinloch Rannoch end just to breathe in the spellbinding beauty of the area.

The “old gal” enjoying the fabulous views down the full length of Loch Rannoch.

It is an area Team Matilda know well and the route is mostly gently undulating – and given the absence of any noticeable wind it was a true joy to be out tandeming. It was certainly another glorious day to be out in tandem in our rural Perth and Kinross Cycle Campaign, Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust, and Love Perthshire area.

As the clouds continued to lift, the majesty of the perfectly conical shape of Schiehallion – one of Scotland’s most recognisable mountains – emerged from the mist, adding to the magical aura.

Another stop was made at the beach area near Bridge of Gaur to spot the 19th Century folly which almost seems to be floating in the water. It is actually situated on Eilean Nam Faoileag (Island of Gulls) which is an old crannog dating back to 1110AD. It originally had a larger surface area but this was reduced by the raising of the water level when the loch was damned for hydro electric generation.

Spot the folly! – the building on a small island in the middle of Loch Rannoch.

At Bridge of Gaur we headed onto the steep and steady climb across the moor into the “middle of nowhere” on the scenic but secluded B846 to Rannoch Station – which must be the station with the best view in Scotland – for lunch at the amazing Rannoch Station Tearoom, which is situated bang in the middle of the active station platform on the West Highland line.

The “old gal” at Rannoch Station Tea room – the remotest tea room in Scotland?

Selfie time for my dynamic crew at remote Rannoch Station on the west Highland line.

It is billed as “probably the remotest tearoom in Scotland” and is one of my dynamic crews favourites. Despite its unique rural location it was incredibly busy. The “old git” was happy that he had booked in advance as that meant Team Matilda had the luxury of sitting inside and avoiding the plagues of midges which were around. However they had already sprayed on their Smidge repellent which kept them bite free.

My dynamic crew enjoyed yummy toasties followed by a slice of the magnificent carrot cake – de rigueur for Team Matilda (and indeed many other tandem crews!) And all while watching the live theatre that is the natural wilderness of Rannoch Moor.

The tearoom felt very safe, keeping to Covid guidelines, and in a nice cycling related touch the hand sanitiser on the tables was made by Ineos, sponsors of one of the cycling team Ineos Grenadiers.

Nice cycling related touch – hand sanitiser made by Ineos, sponsors of Ineos Grenadiers.

After the re-energising food it was time for a most enjoyable few miles downhill where my dynamic crew took a few photos at one with nature – starting with a photo of this “old lady” beside the roaring River Gaur, which flows into Loch Rannoch.

At one with nature – this “old lady” tandem and the roaring River Gaur which flows into the loch.

Next “natural” stop was a rock which looks like a big frog. Now Millport one of my dynamic crew’s other favourite spots for tandeming may have Croc Rock (a rock that looks and is painted like a crocodile) but Rannoch has Frog Rock!

Millport may have Crocodile Rock – but Rannoch has Frog Rock!

We pedalled past the Gaur hydro electric power station, part of the Tummel Valley hydro scheme, currently owned by SSE Renewables.

One of the many hydro electric facilities around Loch Rannoch at Gaur.

Back at Bridge of Gaur we took the quieter B-class single track road back to Kinloch Rannoch which hugs the south side of the loch. This was a superb easy – and speedy – tandem – thru the magnificent scenery of the Black Wood of Rannoch – part of the ancient Caledonian Forest. You could almost feel the history of the area.

Interesting old tree remains at the Black Wood of Rannoch – part of the ancient Caledonian Forest

It certainly lives up to its Forestry and Land Scotland billing as “a living growing monument with some trees thought to be about 400 years old, and is home to a wonderful variety of plants and wildlife, including deer, pine martens and red squirrel.” It is little wonder that it is designated a Special Area of Conservation and the “old gal” and the “old git” felt privileged to be there.

Cheers! The “old gal’s” prosecco toast to the end of the ride at the beach area.

Back at the top of the loch there is a super beach area just outside Kinloch Rannoch village and my dynamic crew doubled back there after completing their lap for their obligatory Team Matilda prosecco toast – which was a great way to celebrate the end of the ride.

Perfect spot for one of Team Matilda’s signature prosecco toasts.

The beach spot was halcyon – offering magnificent views down the full length of the loch to the mountains beyond – if only it had been about 10 degrees warmer!

Selfie cheers time for my dynamic crew – with fizz to mark a perfect day!

After Matilda was packed away in Matilda Transport my dynamic crew enjoyed a superb dinner in the tranquil surroundings of the very hospitable and highly recommended The Inn at Loch Tummel.

The “old git” and “old gal” both had thought they would order one of their fabulous handmade burgers – but there were none left on the menu after a busy weekend. But the special – which was recommended by the magnificently friendly host and owner Jade – was Lobster Thermidor. Ok then, if you insist! Even the “old git” – who can be difficult to please – admitted that the “non burger” Lobster Thermidor was just ace! It was simply a divine meal!

Lobster Thermidor – perfect meal to end a perfect day at the superb The Inn at Loch Tummel

With wi-fi restored at Strathtummel, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worth of a perfectly acceptable 12 gongs – made up of six personal bests; three 2nd bests and three 3rd bests.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 33.7 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 14 minutes. The average speed was an impressive 15.0 mph – a new record average speed for Team Matilda. Elevation was 1,221 feet. The maximum speed was 32.9 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,851 calories and produce an average power output of 205 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

With the usual helpings of madcap fun en route, it was another sensational day out on a bicycle made for two!

And a good test of my dynamic crew’s fitness for their upcoming Nutty Tandemers Club Tour of Suffolk with fellow founding members John Taylor and Jane Termini Taylor towards the end of September. Team Matilda can’t wait!

Double header weekend – another ride with “the other ‘Tilly the tandem” and a sociable ride to our favourite riverside picnic spot in Comrie

The “old gal” feeling a bit cold despite being sandwiched by Jon and the “old git” at Saltcoats!

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew had lots of fun on a busy double header weekend of social #tandem rides starting with this “old lady” having another “date” with “the other ‘Tilly the tandem” crewed by Linda and Jon Reed on a pedal from Irvine to Ardrossan.

The second ride saw Team Matilda enjoying a hilly route to Comrie to show good solo cycling friends Anne Connel and Alan Ince our favourite riverside picnic spot.

Ride 1 – Another ride with “the other ‘Tilly the tandem” from Irvine to Ardrossan on the Cunninghame Cycleway with Jon and Linda

Excitement had been building for weeks about my second big meet up after a few months ago Team Matilda amazingly discovered there was another bicycle made for two called Matilda – tho this one is affectionately known as ‘Tilly for short by her crew of Jon and Linda.

Check out the details of our “double Matilda” tandem route by clicking on the Strava map below.

The other ‘Tilly’s crew are on a somewhat convoluted “slow pedal” Lejog – covering a rather circuitous route from Lands End to John o’ Groats in three stages.

You may remember my delight when I got to meet “the other ‘Tilly back in May on stage 1 of their ride which was from their home area of Ipswich to Edinburgh. Subsequently they have done stage 2 which covered Lands End to Ipswich.

Not really a forced smile from Jon posing with stoker Linda and “the other ‘Tilly the tandem’!

So now Team ‘Tilly are on stage 3 of their route – which will see them pedal from Edinburgh to John o’ Groats – but not exactly taking the direct route. They have decided on a more scenic journey which takes in Kintyre and then the Hebridean Way en route! It seems they decided on adding in the #HebWay after reading my blog – so I am truly honoured!

So on Sunday they were pedalling from Irvine to Ardrossan Harbour for a ferry to Campbeltown – and my dynamic crew teamed up with them for the short tandem ride.

It was great for the “old gal” and “old git” to meet up with Jon and Linda again and to catch up on some of their more recent adventures over coffee and breakfast in Small Talk Coffee and Gift Shop by the harbour in Irvine.

Team Matilda meet up with “the other ‘Tilly the tandem’ at the harbourside in Irvine.

The tandems then set off on the short 11 mile pedal along the Cunninghame Cycleway – also known as The National Cycle Network NCN Rt 73 – from Irvine to Ardrossan.

This is a great Sustrans Scotland off-road path – with an excellent hard surface, which goes thru moorland before touring the seafront of the ‘Three Towns’ – Stevenston, Saltcoats and Ardrossan. Lots of cyclists out on the route and we even had the joy of an original comment from one who on seeing the two tandems in convoy quipped: “Oh look out, it double, double trouble!”

The low cloud made conditions a bit chilly and the “old gal” was certainly wishing she had brought her winter gloves with her – especially on the blustery and exposed sea front stretch at Saltcoats. Not surprisingly there were not too may people spending the day on the beach!

Just a tad blustery and chilly on the exposed sea front section at Saltcoats!

Team Matilda in action – pedalling on NCN Rt73 at Ardrossan as the sun tries to break thru!

At the sea front at Ardrossan the “old git” found some benches under a bandstand like cover – and decided this was the perfect venue for a posh picnic for the two Team Matildas. And naturally there was the obligatory bottle of prosecco to add to the proceedings!

It would have to be said that Jon and Linda did let their side down by drinking the fizz out of plastic beakers rather than my dynamic crew’s infinitely more refined plastic prosecco glasses!

But Linda made up for their drinking utensil failings by producing a wonderful box of posh patisserie chocolates – which were immediately devoured!

Glasses (or beakers!) at the ready! The “old git” popping the cork for the signature prosecco picnic!

Posh picnic are us! Epic fail from Jon and Linda with plastic beakers for the prosecco tho!

But Linda made amends with fab patisserie chocolates – which were instantly devoured!

Picnic over we headed for the CalMac Ferries terminal at Ardrossan where the “other ‘Tilly the tandem’s day” took a major downturn – with news that the ferry to Campbeltown had been cancelled at short notice due to Covid hitting crew rosters and a ferry being withdrawn.

Fortunately Cal Mac had ordered a coach to take passengers the long way by road – a journey of over 5 hours – and even more fortunately decided that the “other ‘Tilly the tandem” could travel in the large boot area. A real get out of jail card!

So despite taking much longer to get to Campbeltown, Jon and Linda would still be able to continue with their long planned schedule of pre-booked over night stops. Phew!

My dynamic crew left the other Team Tilly just as the coach arrived – promising to follow their progress out on the Hebridean Way and on to John o’ Groats with interest and meet up again on their return to central Scotland for an essential catch up before their journey home. Or, if time doesn’t allow that, then since they live near Ipswich, there is a planned meet up when my dynamic crew take part in the Nutty Tandemers Club Tour de Suffolk in September.

Meanwhile the “old git” and “old gal” pedalled back to Irvine, enjoying the paths of NCN Rt 73 all the way back into Irvine.

Back in Irvine – my dynamic crew enjoying the sun breaking thru the cloud on a bridge over the river.

Back at Matilda Transport the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worth of zero gongs – as it was a brand new route for Team Matilda!

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 21.6 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 21 minutes. The average speed was just 9.2 mph due to the social nature of the ride and poor weather conditions. Elevation was just 243 feet as the route was mostly all at the coast. The maximum speed was 19.9 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,385 calories and produce an average power output of 147 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Not too many miles then – but remember that Team Matilda’s motto is “It’s the Smiles not the miles that count!” And there are certainly plenty of smiles when the two Tilly’s – and their crew’s – get together!

Ride 2 – Hilly route to Comrie to show Anne and Alan our favourite riverside picnic spot.

The second part of our busy weekend saw my dynamic crew delighted to welcome good solo cycling friends Anne and Alan on a Monday pedal with us!

The destination – my dynamic crew’s preferred local prosecco picnic spot by the River Earn just outside Comrie.

And Team Matilda decided on a reprise of the new route to get there – via the hilly Langside Road. You can check out the details of our route by clicking on the Strava map below.

Amazingly the “old gal” – who you’ll remember doesn’t do hills – was actually looking forward to this one as although hilly it falls into the manageable category as it is a gentle grind rather than a sharp steep incline.

And of course the views at the plateau across the rolling Perthshire countryside are rather dramatic and certainly worthy of the climb!

My dynamic crew with solo cycling friends Anne and Alan looking back at the Langside Road climb.

All smiles from the “old gal” and solo cycling friends Anne and Alan on the way to Comrie.

What noone had factored in to the ride however, was the windy conditions – which made the 2 mile blast across the top quite a battle against a fierce headwind. But it meant everyone enjoyed the speedy long freewheel downhill into Comrie all the more.

Picnic supplies were sourced at the wonderful Hansen’s Kitchen deli, before pedalling across the old Ross Bridge and following the cycle and walking friendly route, recommended by The National Cycling Network.

Selfie time at the prosecco picnic spot by the River Earn just outside Comrie.

Luckily the picnic spot was empty and was the venue for one of Team Matilda’s signature prosecco picnics – with Alan producing a bottle of fizz which he opened with gusto!

Alan doing the honours with the fizz for the signature prosecco picnic!

Fortunately Anne and Alan had got the email and came equipped with proper prosecco glasses – not beakers! Anyhow, the prosecco certainly helped wash down the very yummy ham, brie and cranberry baguettes!

The sun even broke thru the cloud to raise the temperature – Anne and Alan were suitably impressed with the riverside setting!

Cheers! The “old gal” and Anne and Alan with the prosecco – an essential ingredient for the picnic!

Re-fuelled it was time for a fairly quick pedal back to base – as the “old gal” had an appointment to meet mid afternoon in Perth – on the regular route home via Crieff and Kinkell Bridge.

My dynamic crew even managed the challenging Kinkell to Tullibardine section and their nemesis of Easthill with relative ease – maybe it was due to the pleasantly warm sunny conditions.

It was certainly another glorious day to be out in tandem with good friends in our rural Perth and Kinross Cycle Campaign, Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust, Auchterarder Community Cycling and Love Perthshire area.

On return to Matildas Rest the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worth of an acceptable 12 gongs – made up of two personal bests; eight 2nd bests and two 3rd bests.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 38.2 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 58 minutes. The average speed was a very healthy 12.8 mph despite the hilly route. Elevation was 1633 feet. The maximum speed was 32.4 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 2,205 calories and produce an average power output of 184 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

A busy social schedule for my dynamic crew while clocking up 60 miles riding with friends. Quite simply a great weekend in tandem … on a bicycle made for two!

Clocking up Team Matilda’s 7000th mile in tandem on celebration sunny “overseas” ride on Millport with new round island record!

The “old gal” taking in the sunshine and stunning views towards Millport Town.

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew had fab fun on a truly epic Sunday clocking up Team Matilda’s 7000th mile in #tandem on a celebratory “overseas” ride on Millport What’s On Millport, Isle of Cumbrae complete with an amazing  new round the island speed record!

The big 7k was approaching and – unable to attend the Tandem Club rally in Nottingham – the “old git” and “old gal” decided that there was no better place to hit the mileage mark than a day trip to ‘Costa del Millport’ Visit Cumbrae.

You can check out the details of our route by clicking on the Strava map below.

It was definitely one of those sun-kissed, wind free, days when the Isle of Cumbrae lived up to its slogan: “Millport – in a world of its own!”

Up at 6am and after a near 80 mile drive to Largs my dynamic crew boarded the 10 minute CalMac Ferries trip from the mainland.

The “old gal” with her Cal Mac ferry ticket just before boarding.

The “old git” and “old gal” enjoying the short 10 minute crossing from Largs to Cumbrae.

On arrival on the island there was a quick pedal clockwise from the ferry slipway to the town of Millport and a very welcome yummy strong morning coffee at Crocodeli Millport – seated in their new outdoor seating table with wonderful views across the bay.

Coffee spot with a view … fab coffee too from Crocodeli Millport

Lap one was a fairly brisk clockwise pedal with my crews breathing in the fresh sea air and taking in the wonderful coastal views all the way round the 10 mile perimeter road. The sunny vistas towards the island of Arran were just spectacular.

The ‘Sleeping Warrior’ of the hills of Arran was a spectacular view with crystal clear visibility.

The “old gal” captured the “old git” making sure the camera angle is just right!

Millport is known as a cycling paradise due to the virtually flat and quiet circumference route – and it was great to see the island so busy with visitors. Super to see big queues at bike hire shops like Mapes of Millport. Round the island is not an official The National Cycle Network route – but it should be!

Back into the town and there was a look at some of the shops before going anti-clockwise to our fabulous “table with a view” – situated just before Fintry Bay – which overlooks the beach and has stunning views across to the island of Bute. Team Matilda’s retro AG2R CITROËN Team tops perfectly matched the blue of the sea and sky!

This is one of my dynamic crew’s favourite spots and naturally it was the ideal venue for one of Team Matilda’s signature prosecco picnics.

Picnic table with a view – the stunning outlook across to Bute!

My dynamic crew took a fun selfie on a walk on the sun-kissed beach.

It was idyllic sitting in the sun having the picnic, before a walk on the beach and some madcap photos at a spot potentially earmarked for a future top secret Team Matilda project!

The “old gal” having fun on the beach – with cycling top matching the blue of the sea and sky!

On the rocks! The “old git” posing for a madcap photo on the beach.

With still a good few miles to pedal to hit the 7k mark, the “old gal” decided that our picnic spot would be the ideal place to hit the milestone. So recharged after the picnic, my dynamic crew did some calculations to work out just how far was left to pedal, and completed the anti-clockwise lap cycling back into Millport for a loo stop and coffee and cake at The Dancing Midge Cafe.

Now it was time for the “speed lap” with the “old git” determined to break Team Matilda’s record of 38 minutes – which they failed to do by just 5 seconds on their previous visit!

The Strava sector is known as “Millport TT Clockwise Out and Back from Royal George Hotel” and my dynamic crew were totally up for the challenge – helped by the warm sunshine and hardly any breeze.

The “old git” knew they had to pedal at above the average speed of 15.6mph on their previous attempt to break my dynamic crew’s existing record for the 10.02 miles circuit.

And amazingly the energy levels held all the way round as the “old git” and “old gal” completed the circuit in 35.01 minutes, at an average speed of 17.2 mph. And that spectacularly shaved some 3 minutes off their previous best! Wooooo!

The “old git” feeling the pain after smashing Team Matildas round the island record by 3 minutes.

The “old git” was more than a bit out of breath by the end, so made a call for a celebratory – and recovery – refreshment in the new beer garden at Millport Pier, which is the new name from the recently taken over Royal George Hotel. The celebrations were helped by Strava informing my dynamic crew that they had registered the “seventh fastest worldwide” time for the lap of the island for a female as this “old lady” tandem is obviously registered as a female. Fabulous to get such recognition!

And proof from Strava of the 7th fastest time ever!

Team Matilda next paid a flying visit to the great new island business – Isle of Cumbrae Distillers – set up by a group of five women on the island who distill gin to match the mood of Cumbrae.

Team Matilda had to pay a visit to the fab Isle of Cumbrae Distillers – a local gin distillery!

A purchase was made of Croc Rock gin – which has a hint of ginger and therefore seemed highly appropriate for the “old gal”! The “old git” decided that the only thing to be done was a fun photo opportunity – with the Croc Rock gin at the iconic Crocodile Rock on the promenade!

A purchase was made of Croc Rock gin and there was only one place for the photo ….

… naturally the “old git” had to introduce Crock Rock gin to the iconic Crocodile Rock!

There was now just 5 miles to go to hit the 7k mark so my dynamic crew headed clockwise back towards their favourite picnic stop. And as luck would have it, just as it came into view, the milometer clicked over to 7,000 miles! What an amazing coincidence!

The actual magic moment was captured by the “old gal” on video – so click here to view or on the image below.

There was a burst of mutual celebrations, especially as the “old git” had worked out that a 7000 mile radius of non stop cycling from our home base would take Team Matilda as far as Tokyo in Japan; Jakarta in Indonesia; or Buenos Aires in Argentina! Quite an amazing distance really!

And there it is… 7000th mile clocked up by Team Matilda!

There was a small celebration toast – complete with a superb congratulations video call with our great tandeming friends Jane Termini Taylor and John Taylor – who are fellow founding members of the self-proclaimed Nutty Tandemers Club! Sadly they were unable to be with Team Matilda on Millport, but have shared several previous thousand mile landmarks in person on some of our amazing tours.

The 7000 miles landmark is obviously worthy of a small celebration toast!

Fellow Nutty Tandemers Jane and John joined us by video link to celebrate!

Mission accomplished, my dynamic crew pedalled back into Millport and had a most tasty alfresco fish and chips by the harbour. Why does it always taste so much better outside at the seaside?

Superb end to the epic day on Millport with alfresco – and very yummy – fish and chips!

It was a perfect way to finish an epic action packed day on Millport, before a frantic dash back to the ferry slipway and the ferry back to the mainland.

On the ferry back to Largs the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being a brilliant 30 gongs – made up the “seventh fastest in the world” plus 16 personal bests, 10 2nd bests and three 3rd bests. No wonder it was an energy sapping day!

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 46.9 miles with a moving time of 3 hours 08 minutes. The average speed was a very healthy 14.9 mph. Elevation was just 418 feet, given the island is virtually flat. The maximum speed was 22.6 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,852 calories and produce an average power output of 147 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on on the image below.

One final piece of news in this blog is that my dynamic crew were asked by Sustrans Scotland – the charity that makes it easier for people to cycle – to join in on publicising The Scottish Governments Net Zero #LetsDoNetZero campaign on Twitter, to help reduce the country’s carbon footprint and be “net zero” by 2045, by making a journey by bike.

So the “old git” calculated that by pedalling our 7000 miles, Team Matilda had saved the planet a staggering 3.5 tonnes of co2 emissions – compared to driving the same distance. And of course there’s an argument for saying you could double that as there are two cyclists on board!

Here’s the series of tweets:

My dynamic crew joined @ScotGovNetZero's campaign as clocked up 7000th mile in #tandem @Whatsonmillport on Sunday
That's staggering 3.5 tonnes CO2 emmissions saved v same distance by car!😱
And can double that as 2 cyclists!🚴‍♂️🚴‍♂️
Tagging @Briarcottages to join in!#LetsDoNetZero pic.twitter.com/F0wTapw7Hb

— Matildas Musings (@matildasmusings) August 4, 2021

So epic adventures – and helping to save the planet – its all part of Team Matilda’s ethos having fun on a bicycle built for two!

New loop route to Comrie for prosecco picnic by River Earn after detour to Cultybraggan Camp

The “old git” at one of the old Nissen PoW huts at Cultybraggan Camp just outside Comrie.

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew had lots of laughs and fun on a sun-kissed new #tandem loop route to Comrie for a prosecco picnic by the River Earn, after a detour to the historic Cultybraggan Camp.

The forecast promised more of the recent hot weather so my dynamic crew decided it was a perfect day for a picnic by the river at their preferred spot just outside Comrie Perthshire

And they bravely decided on a new route to get there – via the hilly Langside Road, off the main Comrie to Crieff route. Even the “old gal” – who you’ll remember doesn’t do hills – was tempted by the route due to the promise of dramatic scenery. You can check out the details of our route by clicking on the Strava map below.

Believe it or not, the “old gal” actually conceded that the climb was easier than anticipated – being more of a gentle grind rather than the steep sharp inclines which make Team Matilda feel as if they are going backwards.

The “old gal” looking refreshed – and happy! – that the Langside Road climb was behind her!

It was slightly cloudy to begin with, which probably was just as well during the climb. Reaching the plateau offered superb views across the rolling Perthshire countryside, once used by the Army as a tank training facility. It was another glorious day to be out in tandem in our rural Perth and Kinross Cycle Campaign, Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust, Auchterarder Community Cycling and Love Perthshire area.

The “old git” near the top of the climb to Comrie with the old tank training area in the background.

The old adage that for every uphill there is a downhill was never more apt as my dynamic crew enjoyed a superb long downhill freewheel towards Comrie with the speedometer regularly reading over 30mph.

Again, like the uphill, it was a gentle downhill rather than one of those scary steep descents which makes the “old gal” scream on my back saddle!

About a mile from the town of Comrie, my dynamic crew decided on a quick detour to the historic Cultybraggan Camp – once used as a Prisoner of War camp in World War 11. At its peak the facility – officially named PoW camp No 21 – housed 4,000 Category A prisoners in a series of Nissen huts.

Cultybraggan Camp is steeped in its history of being a Prisoner of War camp in WW11.

The area is now under the control of Comrie Development Trust after a land buyout in 2009. The Trust aims to develop the site as a model of sustainable development for rural communities across Scotland – including revamping and radically modernising the interiors of some of the huts into stylish self-catering accommodation.

The visitor attraction buildings are all currently closed – due to Covid – but the trust plans on re-opening in Spring 2022. It’s a fascinating place – steeped in history, which will hopefully come alive again next year.

The “old gal” with an old Army truck at Cultybraggan Camp, just outside Comrie.

We pedalled on thru Comrie and out to to old Ross Bridge and following the cycling and walking friendly route, recommended by The National Cycle Network. Although it goes all the way to Loch Earn, our destination was a favourite picnic spot by the side of the River Earn about 2 miles out of Comrie.

Naturally this was the venue for a signature Team Matilda prosecco picnic, with the bottle of pink fizz popped with much gusto! Once again our posh picnic antics caused lots of comment from passing cyclists and walkers – who all looked just a little envious of the set-up! It was the first outing for our new prosecco glass holders too!

A signature prosecco picnic by the River Earn – complete with posh glass holders!

Cheers! A selfie as my dynamic crew toast their prosecco picnic by the River Earn.

After a relaxing picnic we decided to visit Tullybannocher Cafe a mile outside Comrie for a coffee – but the least said about that visit the better! Think instant coffee in a cup – at rip-off prices – and you probably get the drift. Let’s just say it was very poor and expensive and won’t be on my dynamic crew’s re-visit list!

Feeling rather disappointed the “old git” and “old gal” started the pedal back, on the more familiar road home – firstly on the section to Visit Crieff. This is a real joy with gently rolling well-surfaced roads.

To counter the disappointment of the earlier coffee stop, the “old gal” shouted for a stop at The Steading Courtyard in Crieff – which more than hit the spot with some delicious strong coffee and tasty home made cakes.

Perfect hand sanitizer holder for cyclists at The Steading Courtyard café in Crieff

Re-energised my dynamic crew were ready for the “rocky road” back from Crieff to Matildas Rest via the quiet rural backroads – which includes the challenging Kinkell to Tullibardine section but amazingly the “old gal” and “old git” recorded their second best time there, despite the hot temperatures.

The final stint is Team Matilda’s nemesis of Easthill but yet again the synchronicity and power kicked in to record a 3rd fastest time – and that was without really trying!

It was however a big relief to be back at Matildas Rest where the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worthy of no less than 15 gongs – made up of four personal bests and seven 2nd bests and four 3rd bests – which given the fact that half of the route was on new sections was a pretty good return.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 39.7 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 51 minutes. The average speed was a very healthy 13.9 mph despite the heat. Elevation was 1648 feet. The maximum speed was 31.3 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 2,194 calories and produce an average power output of 191 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so click here to view or on the image below.

Always good to try a new route which – with the hills – added a “we did it” feelgood dimension to yet another fantastic sunny day out on a bicycle built for two!