Getting down and gravely on a rough weather day.

If you know me, you’ll know I’m an out-and-out roadie. I own four bikes—and yes, they’re all road bikes.

That said, back in January, a club mate from my other cycling group introduced me to canal riding. I was on the wrong bike, with the wrong tyres, and I even took a tumble. But despite that, I really enjoyed the ride into Birmingham, passing the Perry Barr locks and looping back via Sandwell Valley.

After that first outing, I fitted some 30mm tyres to my Holdsworth and began exploring the local canal network solo. So far, I’ve ridden the Wyrley and Essington, Walsall, Tame Valley, Birmingham, and Rushall canals—and I’m gradually finding my way around.

A dedicated gravel bike might be a better fit, but honestly, a road bike with the right tyres is doing the job just fine. Last week, 56 of my 147 miles were on canals and cycleways.

Riding the canals offers a completely different perspective on the region. The scenery, urban artwork, and variety of wildlife are genuinely intriguing. Whether you’re in the mood to pootle or push the pace, it’s a brilliant way to rack up some traffic-free miles.

get out of the way, your screwing my average speed up!

Give Bob at PSCC a shout if you fancy a go or want any pointers. 😊

Story by Robert Steele.