Well
the snow came to most parts of the UK on 4 February and, as predicted
by many, a few inches of the white stuff brought motoring misery for
lots of drivers. I was at work when it started and the majority of staff
coming in for the night shift were delayed. Not directly because of the
snow but indirectly because a fair number of other drivers were unable to
continue on their journeys and simply abandoned their cars. It does make
me chuckle every year.
I
got home in the fresh stuff on the bike with no problems. However, I
changed my Schwalbe Marathon tyres for the Schwalbe Marathon Winter
studded tyres in readiness for the next days return early morning
commute. Took about 35 minutes all told.
I was concerned the gritted,
slushy roads would freeze overnight and make life on two wheels pretty
risky. As it transpired the main roads were clear and the side roads
were not too bad either. The studded tyres worked well though and I was
able to put more power onto the road and corner more confidently than I
would have done otherwise.
As
I am writing this on 6 February, most of the roads are now clear of
snow and I was able to take the Golden Child to her Rainbows group on
the tagalong. I will keep the studded tyres fitted for the next week or
so. They run fine on tarmac (if a little noisy) and the cold weather is
set to continue for a while longer I understand. There may be more snow
yet and don't intend to get caught out.
