6) Map of planned route to Wengen

Initially, I had thought that to cycle to Europe, the obvious way was south to the Channel Crossings; however, after looking at the cycle routes in Europe, it became clear that the best starting point on the other side was Belgium rather than France.

After a few trial and errors plotting the route, the map below is more than likely going to be the final version. After plotting a route, it is possible to view it in an elevation profile. This often leads to a few tweaks to avoid the ups and downs. But, ultimately, if you are going to cycle to Wengen, there are going to be some climbs on the way. The route below seems to be a good compromise!

5) Alsager to Manchester Airport

As we had two unused train tickets from the airport to home, we decided it would be a good opportunity to cycle to the airport then train home.
Using my favourite bike route planning website, I created a back lane track to the airport. Nearly all of it was on country lanes or cycle paths, so hardly any traffic. Total distance was 28 miles.
On Monday 18th March, we did the route in 2 hours 20 mins and the sun shone!
Here is a photo at the airport.
Ann is finding the bike brilliant. In the main, we are able to cycle happily at a similar pace, although, on a steep up slope, Ann does go faster than me.

I have now started to plot the route to Wengen and will publish a map next.

4) Electric (but don't tell anyone!)

After much research and thinking about the idea of 50+ miles per day for three weeks, and wanting to equalise our speeds, the idea of electric "assist" took hold for Ann's new bike search.
As with most things, when you look into it, there are quite a lot of variables. Battery life can range from 10-50 miles, the way the electric helps can vary and how you ask for it (eg: twist throttle handle bar or pedal activated). In the end, and after a trial at a specialist shop in Lichfield, Ann chose the LifeStyle Alpine Sport. On a full charge, you can ride with assist for a full day (c6 hours), the power can be set to simply complement your pedalling ie: the harder you pedal (say, uphill) the more assistance you get.

We have now had a couple of 25 mile bike rides together, and the great news is, we are pretty equal in what we can cover mileage-wise. Here is a photo of the new bike.

3) New Bike for Ann

During a recent bike ride together, Ann was struggling even on quite level surfaces and Paul had to regularly ease off to allow her to catch up. Convinced that this was more than just a fitness issue, Paul suggested that Ann try riding his bike. The difference was amazing! It was obvious that Ann's 10 year old "shopping" bike was not suitable for anything other than a short trip round the village. A new bike purchase was planned!