Basingstoke: Almost Halloween! Extended lap of the town (mostly cycle/shared paths some road)

It's almost Halloween, there may be some moon and some fireworks! Halloween costume items are welcome and would be fun but not mandatory and don't do anything that makes you an unsafe cycling liability (i.e. probably not full witches robes!) An extended 15.3 mile loop around central Basingstoke out to the town parks and back, combining the routes of the previous weeks into a slightly longer ride. Allow 2 hours – riding in the dark and on cycle paths does take longer especially getting through junctions, crossing roads etc. For the same reasons, wear extra layers especially if you get cold easily. Better to be toasty. It is a great way to learn different cycle paths and routes in and out of town for commuting or generally just getting about avoiding most busy roads. Again you will probably be OK on a road bike if you are prepared to be able to confidently deal with potentially slippy leaves and some debris on the paths, some bumps, and a very short unmade section through Crabtree – most of the route is gravel paths and tarmac. We will do this or a slight variation: https://www.goskyride.com/SCG/ViewRouteBlank?routeID=18626 Make sure you have working lights front and back batteries charged/not going to run out and wear clothing that’s as visible as possible – I will bring a couple of spare hi viz vests in case. If you do all this it will be fun! Do keep an eye on the weather as nothing worse than misjudging it. Any queries, [email protected] or follow facebook.com/breezingstoke or twitter @breezingstoke Cheers,
Ruth  Don’t forget…. Breeze  are on a mission to spread the word about their rides, and need your help. If you introduce one friend who goes on to take part in a Breeze ride, you’ll receive a Breeze water bottle, introduce a second friend, you’ll be the proud owner of one of their swish Breeze Buffs, and introduce a third friend and Breeze will send you £15 of Love2Shop vouchers. Read the article on the homepage for more information.