Focus Variado 1 : Boxhill 0
Yesterday, as Part 2 of my review of the Focus Variado and to kick-start my Battle with the Pre-Middle Aged Bulge, I took the Variado out for a 100km ride to Boxhill and back.
This ride took me through Central London, Brixton Clapham and straight down the A24 towards Dorking and to Boxhill. The first and last hours were painfully slow as traffic lights and congestion hindered my path, but the middle hour took me through some very nice countryside.
There were plenty of hills to keep me busy with a total altitude climbed on the ride a respectable 630m. Boxhill itself was a delight to climb on the Variado, so either people make it out to be much worse than it is, I am fitter than I thought or the Variado was born to climb. The view from the top of Boxhill is spectaular and well worth a visit even if not cycling. If you do choose to visit it as part of a weekend outing, don't forget to also visit the nearby Polsden Lacey manor house. Both are National Trust sites.
Regarding my previous comments on handling, in my opinion it will take a couple of rides until you get used to the very responsive nature of the Variado. I think I have reached this point (after 200km) as on this ride, even when reaching a top speed of 55kph and darting through traffic, I very much felt in control.
Some tired legs, a nice tan, 4 hours and 2700 Calories later, I arrived back home. I am very impressed with the Variado, to such an extent that I will be making a 4 hour Sunday ride part of my endurance training.
Next Sunday its out to Windsor and back (80km)...
T-minus 4798km in the next 337 days to go to the Cayo.