Our ride descriptions give an account of the ride that we completed. As part of the description we also provide links to Wikiloc or Google maps and elevation profiles based on mapping data available through the internet. The ride profiles are smoothed to give what in our opinion is a more beneficial view of the profile. We use paper maps, GPS and on line data to plan and conduct our rides. We are happy for you to use our descriptions, but be aware that we do not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided as situations surrounding any ride change over time.
On this, our first full cycling day, it was unfortunate that both of the ladies were unwell. Karen just had a cold, but Andrea had a bad stomach upset and had hardly slept. There was about 10km of flat road to warm up on and get used to riding in convoy before the first hill.
In one of the small villages was a parade. At the back were two ponies each carrying a young boy about four years old. In front of them was a long column of villagers led by a group of dancers, musicians, drummers and gift bearers, all dressed in traditional costume. At Schwenyuang we joined highway 4 and turned west. The road was very busy, with throngs of balloon festival visitors travelling home. Later we. Between here and He Ho was a slow climb of m up to the plateau where the airport is.
Clouds were gathering above and there was a brief shower, hardly enough to wet us. Traffic in front ground to a halt as the level crossing gates were closed and everyone waited for the train to Thazi to trundle slowly over the road.
Further up the hill there was a good view of the heavy rainstorm making its way over the lake. Stopping to take a photo we were joined by a group of young men, riding home from the balloon festival, who all wanted to have their pictures taken with us. At a cafe at the summit we caught up with them again and they brought us all coffee. Steve was persuaded to try playing a traditional drum. Now on the plateau at about m, the road was fairly flat all the way to Aungpan.
