Ardrossan - Largs

Arran from parking area

The forecast was a great deal better today, still with strong breezy winds but only a small chance of rain. Despite the wind I decided on a bike ride, got the car loaded and drove to Ardrossan for a change of scenery. After a fortnight away over-eating and drinking this was my first cycle for 3 weeks so a reasonably flat route chosen. Depending on how it went I also had the option of getting the ferry across to Cumbrae and add another 10 miles.

The track to West Kilbride

I parked the car just outside of Ardrossan and almost got blown over by the gust of wind, wow a lot stronger here than Barassie. The views were good so hopefully a nice ride.
The winds blew from the north, right into my face, but I surprised myself with my breathing and fitness, I felt okay.
I stuck to the cycle path until West Kilbride where I joined the road, not before switching on my rear light to strobe. It might be daylight but it is powerful and since I started using it I am more aware of traffic giving me a wider berth. Moon Shield a superb light for under £30.

No issues with traffic as I got through the town and re-joined the pavement on the other side, it was bit rough going at times, loose stones, holes etc. but safer than the main road. A short while later I cut inland following the tree lined track to Hunterston House. I remember to stop and switch off the light as I had not charged it before I left, only down point with the light is you are not sure what power is in it, USB charge so no batteries to change. The wind was less severe here and I enjoyed the cycle through the woods, although again a bit rough at times for the road tyres. Hopefully no punctures.
Spring is arriving and the colour is starting to appear although these trees have a bit to go to be fully leaved.
I pass a farmer entering a field where the sheep have newly lambed. Maybe good timing as there are a few carrion crows walking about. Sadly crows have an appetite for new born lambs eyes, not nice but that's nature for you.

Coal cranes at Fairlie

There is a safe path all the way to Fairlie where I then followed the signs to go with the Ayrshire Coastal Path behind the village. This is low tide with exposed vegetation and the water some way away. However even with an MTB some of this path would be tough going, therefore dismount and a short stretch of pushing.
Back onto the main road but only for a mile or so before I can get back onto a cycle path.
This path takes you past Largs marina and follows the coast into the town. The advantage is you miss the short sharp climb at the golf course. The downside is that it is populated by people and dogs both natural hazards for cyclists. I do use a bell to be socially correct but the reactions of people are so unpredictable that you still have to slow down and take extreme care. Sometimes I think the road is actually safer for cyclists.

Cumbrae Ferries

Another near thing, at one bend a cyclist comes round the corner very fast and on the wrong side, I brake hard as I noticed he is followed by a female taking the same route and going just as fast not paying attention. A few swear words directed at them. Cyclists can give cyclists a bad name as well.
Avoided a few dogs and their owners and arrived at the ferry which was just departing. The wind was still blowing a hoolie so I cycled up to the end of the walkway and came back.  Black clouds had made an appearance overhead, rain or not? I decided to just return and save Cumbrae for a day when the elements will make it more enjoyable. I took a detour into the marina, lots of money on display here.

Largs Marina

Dodged a few more dogs, smiling owners with no idea that their out of control dogs can be a danger, then back onto the road through Fairlie. Here I have my two significant incidents of the day. Firstly a red Volvo appears right beside me whilst we are going round a corner, I could reach out and touch but I'm pressed right against a kerb hoping no potholes to twitch the bike or I will go under him. More swearing as he speeds away. Then right after at the next bend, white van man comes past but at least he gives me room but his overtaking has taken him over the middle of the road just as an articulated lorry comes up on the other side of the road, avoiding the lorry white van man dives back in to our single lane, thankfully he was just ahead of me but another impatient driver almost causing an accident. It is sad how many drivers do not respect cyclists, maybe every driver should be made to spend time as a cyclist!!

Hunterston power station 

I follow the same route back and with the tail wind make good time. Overall an enjoyable cycle with some great views. Sadly a few be aware moments that seem all too frequent these days. A round trip of 27 miles, that will do for today, now beer time.