History
The Origins of the Clarion Cycling Club and cycling in the 1890s
11. Sage advice from Swiftsure and the Clarion CC continues to spread.
Some of the advice that Swiftsure dispensed in the Clarion of 15 September 1894 will not seem instantly applicable to regular Brighton and Hove Clarionettes (apart from Bob) in 2008. But the spirit of it is relevant to us all So. here is some of it anyway. I've supplied the sub-heads
Training
I never undertake a long ride, say of from 60 to 120 miles, without having worked up to it. For about ten days before I scarcely miss a day without doing from ten to forty miles, according to the weather or time at my disposal. By the end of this training – as they would call it in racing circles – I am able to do a long ride without retiring home feeling like a wreck!
Walking up Hills
I say, never mind what people may think, remember you are, or should be, riding for pleasure; dismount and walk whenever you feel your powers are getting exhausted. Besides there is this about walking a little when out for a long ride - it will rest your whole body better than either sitting or lying down.
Buying a bike
I won't quote all this verbatim, but in answer to the enquiry below Swiftsure recommended both Steve Muir 'who makes the Clarion cycle', and Allen Woodman in Haworth but added that 'There are at least a dozen first class makers. But there is one machine – and one only – for which I have always had a prediction, and that is the Rudge – a machine it would be folly to talk about puffing, it is too well-known for that'.
He recommended buying a bike weighing between 30 and 35 lbs and one not 'geared above 60 inches'. £12 was enough to pay for a bike suitable for an ordinary rider.
The Clarion CC continues to spread.
From 'Swiftsure' in the same issue - 15 September 1894:
A correspondent from Oldham, who signs himself 'T.E.M.' writes to me that he intends to swell the army of Clarion cyclists, and having no cycling friends, he asks me for a little information about what make he should purchase.
[The advice above – in considerably more detail then followed.]
Look out Brum, here's Bradford on the warpath. A Clarion cycling club has been formed there, and started with 25 members
One of them, who signs himself 'J.H.' sends me an interesting account of their first run. He also says 'Will Labour clubs within 20 miles of Bradford write to the secretary, Clarion Cycling Club, East Ward Labour Club, Bradford and they will try to give assistance' I will be pleased to give prominence to their intended runs which, I may add, are to be kept up through the winter.
Next time. 'The O' Groomie O' responds to the Pinnock enquiry about the Clarion badge (see No 7 in 28 April Circular) and Swiftsure's take on the North Road Club's annual 24 hour race.