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 !

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!

Matilda meets the other ‘Tilly the tandem on a long awaited date on a wet and windy ride to Perth!

I was uber excited at finally meeting “the other ‘Tilly the tandem” and her crew Linda and Jon.

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew’s superb fun ride where Matilda finally gets to meet “the other ‘Tilly the #tandem” on a long awaited date on a wet and windy ride to Perth!

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

The other ‘Tilly’s crew are on “a slow pedal” to Scotland from their base near Ipswich and have pedalled over 600 miles for the big event!

You can check out the details of our (somewhat shorter!) route by clicking on the Strava map below.

I was uber excited when my dynamic crew said today was the day and we headed from our home base of Auchterarder to meet ‘Tilly at Bridge of Earn as they pedalled on their route from Kinross to Perth! Unfortunately Team Matilda was hit by a heavy squall en route, and was forced to dry out over a welcome coffee at the newly re-opened The Earn Coffee Shop while waiting.

But that was soon forgotten and the big meet happened on the Brig which spans the River Earn and there was much parping of my horn as Team ‘Tilly came into view, which the “old git” recorded on video for posterity! So click here to view or on the image below.

After the “old git” and “old gal” introduced themselves to Linda and Jon – and I said a big friendly hello to ‘Tilly – there was time for the obligatory photo opportunity showing the two tandems!

I gave the other ‘Tilly the tandem a welcome “kiss” at the Brig at Bridge of Earn!

Linda and Jon have pedalled over 600 miles from Ipswich to meet Matilda on their Viking Serengeti.

The schedule then saw the two tandem crews to have a short ride together from Bridge of Earn, pedalling on The National Cycle Network Rt 775 into Perth City Centre.

The tandem crews pedalling into Perth on The National Cycle Network Rt 775.

Once in the city centre the “old git” had organised a celebratory glass of prosecco – followed by great coffee, toasties and cake at the brilliant Artisan – Espresso & Wine Bar, while us tandems had a good catch-up and got to know each other a bit better!

The two Matilda tandem crews enjoying a glass of prosecco at Artisan Espresso and Wine Bar!

It would need to be said the other ‘Tilly is somewhat more experienced and wider travelled than me! Linda and Jon have been riding tandems for 25 years and ‘Tilly is their third one – a Viking Serengeti which has clocked up around 40,000 kms and been to no less than 48 countries.

Jon, Captain of Team ‘Tilly and “the old gal” toasting the new tandem friendship!

The “old git” and the “old gal” hit it off immediately with Linda and Jon who recounted how they suggested meeting up after reading about Team Matilda in BIKE Magazine Europe back in March where we appeared over five pages in glorious technicolour!

Linda, Stoker of Team Tilly and “the old git” toasting the Matildas meet up!

And apart from the coincidence of our tandem names, ‘Tilly also has a blog in which they recount their adventures on ‘Tilly the tandem, and “Ten Tonne Taffy” – or “FatTaf” for short – their “beast” of a motorhome … and a Stoker who doesn’t like hills!

I do however have to stress one difference, that ‘Tilly’s blog is written by her Captain Jon – unlike me who is of course the UK’s only blogging tandem!

Cheers! The two Matilda tandem crews had to drink the prosecco outside to meet Covid rules.

A couple of hours flew by in what seemed like minutes as we all swapped stories about tandem tours, trips, adventures and of course misadventures!

All too soon it was sadly time to go our separate ways – but only after some photos on the banks of the River Tay in Perth. I must say I was a tad envious that the other ‘Tilly the tandem had a rear name plate which looked just like a number plate! I may try to persuade the “old gal” I need one of those!

Here I am getting to know the other ‘Tilly the tandem on the banks of the Tay in Perth city centre!

Rear view! I must say I was a tad envious of the other ‘Tilly the tandem’s number plate!

Front view! The other ‘Tilly the tandem was heavily loaded up for touring.

A final shot of Linda and John of Team ‘Tilly before the crews had to go their separate ways.

Linda and Jon headed to the luxury of their hotel, just a few hundred yards away across the river, while the “old git” and “old gal” pedalled off – but immediately hit a brutal strong headwind which stayed against us every mile of the pedal back to Matildas Rest.

It was so energy sapping the “old git” suggested stopping at The Kirkstyle Inn for a reviving tonic (with a small measure of the amazing new house ‘Little Earl’ gin in it!!) to ensure they got home. The “old gal” thought this was one of his best suggestions while tandeming … ever! Tho it almost didn’t happen as the Kirkstyle’s new outdoor Garden Larder was really busy – but my crew enjoyed their drinks on extremely comfortable hand crafted chairs made from the wood of spirit barrels. How appropriate!

My dynamic crew had to stop for a tonic to refuel (with a small measure of gin) at the Kirkstyle Inn.

Suitably refuelled – and with clouds building and threatening another downpour – my dynamic crew battled the headwind for the final four miles back from Dunning as quickly as they could and were much relieved to get home just seconds before the rain started and so avoided another soaking.

Safely out of the wind at Matildas Rest, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worthy of 3 gongs – quite amazing given the adverse weather conditions – one 2nd best, and two 3rd bests.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 35.9 miles with a moving time of 3 hours 04 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 11.7 mph despite the headwind on the return leg! Elevation was 1,681 feet. The maximum speed was 30.9 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 2,171 calories and produce an average power output of 176 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.

Shame about the wind and the rain but it was still a fabulous fun day out in tandem in our rural Perth and Kinross Cycle Campaign, Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust, Auchterarder Community Cycling and Love Perthshire area.

And of course it was very special for me to finally get to meet the other ‘Tilly!! But the big question I am sure all my blog readers are wondering is … will there be a second date?!!

There is talk that Linda and Jon want to meet up again when Team Matilda are down in their home patch for the Nutty Tandemers Club 2021 Tour de Suffolk, which is planned for September. Now, if that happened, it would result in a trio of tandems!! So watch this space!!

Breakout of Lockdown2 ride on National Cycle Network Rt7 and The Coig Rt1 from Irvine to Ayr

Basking in the sun at the start of our ride at Irvine with Ailsa Craig showing just above my front saddle!

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew had a superb Breakout of #Lockdown2 sunny tandem ride on The National Cycle Network Route 7 and The Coig Route 1 from Irvine to Ayr and back – with a small measure of gin thrown in too!

There has been just over a month of enforced inactivity for Team Matilda as the “old gal” was finally able to return to her hairdressing salon as Scotland slowly emerged from Covid #Lockdown2 and not surprisingly faced overwhelming demand from customers who have gone without haircuts since the end of last year. This meant working crazy hours of effectively 8am till 8pm six days a week, so there was no time – or energy! – for pedalling. And obviously that has meant no blogs for me to write either!

Selfie time for my dynamic crew delighted to be returning to action on a bicycle made for two!

But after five weeks, things calmed down a bit and my dynamic crew were keen to get back on my saddles for some much needed exercise on a Breakout from #lockdown adventure. With restrictions on travel across Scotland lifted, the “old git” decided the schedule would be to head to one of the “old gal’s” favourite #tandem rides – along the Ayrshire Coast Cycleway. The start point would be the Coastwatch Scotland car park in Irvine, with a picnic lunch at the turnaround point of Ayr beach.

The Ayrshire Coast Cycleway forms part of Sustrans Scotland NCN Rt7 and is also a key part of Route 1 of The Coig – which is Gaelic for five and is a new tourism initiative comprising five cycle friendly routes around Ayrshire and the Clyde islands.

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

But before we get to the pedalling, I want to tell the story of how I have been passing the period of enforced inactivity by helping the “old git” making my own blend of tandemers gin! Yes you heard that correctly! A Scottish gin called “Matilda’s Merry Mix!”

You see, my dynamic crew are partial to the occasional artisan gin and the “old gal” bought the “old git” a gin making kit. He bought a bottle of unflavoured vodka and added the juniper berries and then a few days later added the mix of botanicals.

Matilda’s Merry Mix – the very exclusive self brewed blend of tandemers gin!

After infusing for around a week, and a filtration, the result was an amazingly tasty lightly spiced gin. The “old git”, being the creative type, came up with the name ‘Matilda’s Merry Mix’ and created a suitable label for the bottle!

The gin is highly exclusive of course – a bit like me! – as the recipe created just a single bottle! It it is unlikely to last long as a collector’s item … but it sparked a bit of fun!

So to our ride … My dynamic crew were up at very early o’clock to drive to the west coast but were rewarded with a beautiful sunny morning on arrival in Irvine – allowing for some great sun-kissed photos before rolling out on our adventure.

The “old git” getting ready to roll in the stunning morning sunshine at Irvine Beach.

The “old gal” surveying the amazing vista and stunning sky before the off.

My dynamic crew were pleasantly surprised to find they were not rusted up and remembered how to pedal and set off with great gusto! A mild tail wind and pedalling along some almost motorway-smooth tarmac on long sections of the cycle path saw us quickly pass thru Troon and onto Prestwick Promenade in what seemed like no time – buoyed by the (almost warm but not quite!) sunshine. A loo stop was called by the “old gal” where she discovered that South Ayrshire Council has recently implemented a 30p charge on all public loos! Or as the “old git” quipped: “30p to have a pee!”

Time for photos with the “old gal” sitting on a bench with a fabulous view – looking towards the island of Arran, known as Scotland in miniature, in one of those colourful sea meets sky pictures – with almost unnatural shades of blue! It is worth clicking on the images to see it in a larger size!

Bench with a view! What a fab vista looking across to Arran from from Prestwick Promenade.

Ahoy there! The “old gal” looking out across the Firth of Clyde to the island of Arran.

The Ayrshire Coast Cycleway is well signposted and easy to follow – ideal for newbies to the NCN and The Coig – with dedicated painted cycle lanes on stretches along the promenades at Troon, Prestwick and Ayr. Pedalling onwards, the route took my dynamic crew into Ayr – which was hugely busy with people desperate to escape the recent lockdown and get some sea air. But it was good to see that nearly everyone was keeping to social distance rules.

With the sky turning a bit cloudier, my dynamic crew found a sheltered bench in gardens just off the promenade to enjoy their picnic lunch – and signature prosecco toast, naturally! – while enjoying the stunning views out to Arran and Ailsa Craig – aka Paddy’s Milestone. Great brain food to go along with the sustenance food!

Prosecco picnic time at a secluded garden spot at Ayr beach giving protection form the chilly wind.

Is it OK to leave bicycle tyre tracks too? says Matilda, asking for a friend!!

With the sun having disappeared temporarily behind heavy cloud, the “old gal” decided a coffee was required to heat up a bit – and fortunately the easing of Covid restrictions now allowed my dynamic crew to sit inside to restore body temperature.

Suitably revived, the sun started to re-appear and there was an opportunity for a couple of photos of my dynamic crew’s new dayglo orange sunglasses – which just so happen to perfectly colour coordinate with their bright shiny cycling helmets!

New dayglo orange sunglasses for my dynamic crew made their first appearance!

Smile! The future is orange! Very orange! At least my dynamic crew won’t get lost!

A quick pedal of the full length of the promenade saw the “old git” spot one of several NCN Millennium signposts dotted along the route pinpointing distances and directions.

Millennium signpost on NCN Rt7 at the far end of Ayr beach, with Arran in background.

The wind had picked up a bit so the return journey was a bit of a battle – but still highly enjoyable. The “old gal” in particular liked the stretch between Prestwick Airport and Troon where the broom was in full yellow bloom – which traditionally signals a warm summer is on the way!

Plenty of yellow on the broom – a traditional sign that summer and warmer weather is on the way!

My dynamic crew then blasted back to the start point at Irvine for a re-fuelling coffee and cake at the Small Talk Coffee and Gift Shop which looks out on to the harbour.

Back at Matildas Transport, the “old git” checked Strava which officially recorded the ride as being worthy of a superbly pleasing total of 24 gongs given my dynamic crew’s rustiness due to a lack of pedalling – made up of 5 personal bests, 9 second bests; and 10 third best times.

The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 36.5 miles with a moving time of 2 hours 52 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 12.7 mph – which given the inevitable coastal winds was perfectly acceptable – while the elevation was 550 feet due to the route mainly running along the edge of the sea. The maximum speed was 21.3 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,530 calories and produce an average power output of 132 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.

So with Scotland on a clear route map out of restrictions, my dynamic crew’s NCN Rt7 and The Coig Rt1 pedal clocked up a final 36 miles onto the #Lockdown2 milometer, taking the total to 327 miles from the 14 rides completed. The “old git” and “old gal” feel this is a pretty reasonable mileage given the fairly severe winter weather around Matildas Rest which hit almost as soon as #lockdown was announced.

There were hugely positive feelings from the breakout of #Lockdown2 ride – with obvious signs that things are looking brighter on the pandemic front. My dynamic crew continue to feel lucky, fortunate and blessed that they have been able to be able to keep healthy – mentally and physically – with our madcap #tandem adventures on a bicycle made for two during the enforced restrictions! Lets just say my spokes are firmly crossed that there won’t be a #lockdown3 any time soon.

Meantime this “old lady” tandem is uber excited about my next scheduled ride when I am hopefully going to get to meet my namesake! yes amazingly there is another Matilda tandem out there – tho she is affectionately called ‘Tilly’ for short!

You will remember that Team Matilda was featured in the March issue of BIKE Magazine Europe – over 5 pages in glorious technicolour! Well it was read with interest by Linda and Jon Reed – who are based in Suffolk – who have been riding tandems for 25 years! They loved the article and reached out to say hello given the coincidence of the name! Their granddaughter shortened their Matilda to ‘Tilly!

The other ‘Tilly the Tandem crossing into Scotland with crew Linda and John.

Now ‘Tilly is a Viking Serengeti and is Linda and Jon’s third tandem – and is a bit more experienced than me! Her crew do lots of touring and ‘Tilly has notched up a staggering total of nearly 40,000 kms and been to no less than 48 countries.

Apart from the same name there are other coincidences – as ‘Tilly also has a stoker who doesn’t like hills – just like the “old gal”! And Linda and Jon also have a blog in which they recount their adventures on ‘Tilly the tandem, and “Ten Tonne Taffy” – or “FatTaf” for short – their “beast” of a motorhome.

Team ‘Tilly are currently on a Breakout from Lockdown tour – a “slow pedal north to Scotland” from their Suffolk base. And on Sunday –  as long as weather gods play along – I am getting the opportunity to meet ‘Tilly as the “old git” and “old gal” are meeting up with Linda and John as they pedal thru nearby Bridge of Earn, and ride together into Perth. The tandem crews will catch up over some food and drink while us tandems will have a good natter! How exciting is this all going to be?! I can’t wait!

Lockdown2 Ride8 – Retro Ag2r jersey-clad reprise of Mill of Drummond loop with arty DIY coffee stop at Muthill and Matilda discovers another ‘Tilly!

The retro AG2R Team jerseys made a (brief) appearance from under the hi-vis jackets at Muthill!

This blog is the story of how my dynamic crew enjoyed a fun #Lockdown2 Ride8 #tandem adventure with a retro Ag2R Citroen Team Le Tour de France jersey-clad reprise of Mill of Drummond loop with an arty DIY coffee stop and photoshoot at Muthill. There’s also news of this “old lady” tandem amazingly discovering another tandem called ‘Tilly!

The “old git” and “old gal” were keen to get back out in tandem taking advantage of calmer conditions and a break from the recent dreich weather for their eighth fun #lockdown adventure – while adopting Cycling UK Scotland‘s #cyclingfromhome mantra in #tandem in rural Perthshire, mainly on Sustrans Scotland and The National Cycle Network routes.

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

But before we get to the pedalling, I want to tell the story of how delighted this “old lady” tandem was when I got a message on my Facebook feed saying: “I’d like to say hi to my namesake and look forward to following your blog!” Amazingly there is another Matilda tandem out there – tho she is affectionately called ‘Tilly for short!

You will remember that Team Matilda was featured in the March issue of BIKE Magazine Europe – over 5 pages in glorious technicolour! Well it was read with interest by a couple called Linda and Jon Reed – who are based in Norwich – who have been riding tandems for 25 years!

Linda said they loved the article in the magazine and wanted to reach out to say hello given the coincidence of the name! Their granddaughter shortened their Matilda to ‘Tilly!

She added: “‘Tilly is a Viking Serengeti and is our 3rd tandem. Over the years we have modified her with lots of bits and pieces, bespoke built wheels and a Rolhof hub – which have been great for touring. In normal times, pre Covid, we normally tour 2 or 3 times a year and ‘Tilly has notched up 39,000 kms and been to no less than 48 countries.

The “other” ‘Tilly the tandem – enjoying a more exotic climate than Scotland!

Linda continued: “Until we get back to more normal times, like you we’re out and about as often as we can making use of roads a bit closer to home … but in our part of the world it’s a bit flatter than where you are! And this is another stoker who doesn’t like hills!”

The remarkable number of coincidences continue as Linda and Jon also have a blog in which they recount their adventures on ‘Tilly the tandem, and “Ten Tonne Taffy” – or “FatTaf” for short – their “beast” of a motorhome.

Tilly’s blog ident!

And this social media shout-out may lead to me meeting “the other” Matilda as Linda and Jon are currently planning and mapping their next tour, a post Covid “slow pedal north to Scotland.” If they get near our area – they are keen to link up with the “old git” and the “old gal” to give the two Matildas the chance to meet up! How exciting would that be?! I can’t wait!

The “other” ‘Tilly is a Viking Serengeti and weighs about 22kg naked and unloaded!

So to our ride – it was a real joy to be out on beautiful rolling countryside on quiet farm roads. And the best part of the trip was that despite a rather iffy weather forecast, Team Matilda successfully managed to dodge the showers. Fortunately not a spot fell on my dynamic crew – despite the evidence of rather wet roads on the last few miles, showing that there had been heavy showers.

It was fairly cloudy as we set off from our home base town of Auchterarder, tandeming out of town past Gleneagles and on towards Braco. At the junction with the A822 we turned right pedalling to the highest point of the ride – where a quick stop for a breather saw us capture (just) a huge flock of geese which decided to descend as the “old git” took a photo of the “old gal!”

Spot the geese! A huge flock of geese decided to descend as the “old gal” posed for a photo!

Beautiful rolling rural Perthshire countryside… and even a spot of blue sky!

Then a left turn at the Mill of Drummond signpost and a reprise of a wonderful 4.5 mile route thru local farms on amazingly well surfaced rural roads. This is part of the route used for the Muthill Sportive– but in reverse!

It is quite undulating but also quite adrenalin-inducing in a roller-coaster kind of way with some steep downhills – especially hurtling down past Muthill Golf Course before having to brake before re-joining the main road! The “old git” managed to get the Strava speedometer to register 38.7mph … despite the loud screams from the back! So obviously the target the next time on this route is to hit the 40mph barrier … but shhhh! Don’t tell the “old gal” just yet!

My dynamic crew stopped in the centre of the village of Muthill for an arty DIY coffee stop at the fascinating Muthill Old Church and Tower– which dates back to the 1100s and is now in the care of Historic Environment Scotland. Here the “old git” decided to express his inner artist and get a shot thru one of the ruined arches to a carpet of snowdrops.

An arty shot at Muthill Old Church and Tower … spot the snowdrops!

There were also some fun photos of Team Matilida where they (briefly!) removed their hi-vis jackets to reveal their retro Ag2r Tour de France cycling jerseys!

It’s always better when we’re tandeming together! Ag2r photoshooot laughs!

It’s the smiles not the miles that count for Team Matilda! More Ag2r photoshoot fun!

Photo shoot over it was jackets back on quickly to keep out the cold chill – and enjoy the welcome DIY coffee and cake! Then a breeze of a tandem cycle back to Auchterarder – including the masochistic pleasure of recording a personal best at the steep Machany Bridge sector. My dynamic crew also took 21 seconds off our time from our last effort on our personal nemesis of Easthill. Just another 20 seconds to go for a new PB there!

Great feelgood factor on returning to Matildas Rest from the exercise – which clocked another 22 miles onto the #Lockdown2 milometer taking the total to 181 miles from the 8 rides completed so far.

And the day got even better when the “old git” checked Strava to discover that my dynamic crew have been awarded the “Local Legend” accolade for no fewer than FOUR different sectors on the route! This causes the “old git” and the “old gal” much amusement given the fact that they are so very far from “local legend” status cyclists!

But a “Local Legend” accolade is an accolade no matter what – and they are quietly chuffed at the same time. Naturally their combined 4 stone weight loss is obviously a contributory factor – but probably more so is the fact that the roads they were pedalling on are clearly “roads less travelled” by local cyclists as the accolade is given for the most efforts on a particular segment over the last 90 days.

Strava officially recorded the ride as being worthy of 13 gongs – five personal bests; four 2nd bests; and the four “local legends”! The detailed Strava figures showed my dynamic crew tandemed a distance of 22.0 miles with a moving time of 1 hour 44 minutes. The average speed was a healthy 12.6 mph despite the ever present wind! Elevation was 1,285 feet. The maximum speed was 38.7 mph and Team Matilda managed to burn up 1,431 calories and produce an average power output of 204 W.

As always the route is brought to life in our Relive 3D mapping video – so take a look below.

Once again there were hugely positive endorphins from #Lockdown2 Ride 8 for my dynamic crew – underlining what fun it is being out pedalling on a bicycle made for two in our rural Perth and Kinross Cycle Campaign, Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust, Auchterarder Community Cycling and Love Perthshire area.

Roll on the next fun spirit-lifting #tandem pedal! And of course roll on that potential meet-up with the “other” ‘Tilly!