The Day-trippers Return.

A Black Sheep Adventure.

By Black Sheep Cycling

July 4^th, 2021

David Foira shares what happened next, when a couple of mates went off-road in the hills of Victoria with their bikes, some new kit and a loose plan.

"The mind was willing but the body was slow to join the party."

Waking up on Day 2 of our adventure weekend, I felt more sloth than human. The mind was willing but the body was slow to join the party. Our good friend and fellow adventure lover, Lizzie Stanndard joined the party for what was going to be our last supposedly short day. Our so-called ‘short day’ turned out to be much, much longer and climb-ier than expected (the words 'classic stitch up' come to mind - thanks Tils). Thinking about it, those extra GnT's last night didn’t help the situation…oh well, worth it. Nothing a few double Ristrettos (yes, I’m a Melbourne coffee wanker) won’t fix.

“There are no wrong turns in adventure”

As the caffeine slowly works its magic, we begin to gingerly turn the pedals and head out of town. It isn’t long before mind and body are on the same page and ready for adventure. After yesterday, I have adopted the mantra - there are no wrong turns in adventure. I mean, how can there be when you’re with mates and your only goal is to just ride?

Weary, but in good spirits, we wobble up the road searching for adventure for a second day in the hills around Warburton. Heavy legs, childish banter and handlebar bags packed full of snacks is our vibe.

The colour and beauty of the tall gums and dense ferns surrounding us is something I can’t describe in words, but if I had to pick one - majestic… Absolutely majestic.

Finally, it's a flat tyre and a couple near misses with some brown snakes has us headed for the cafe earlier than expected, but not before we get one last descent with some perfectly spaced switchbacks, what a treat! As the descent mellows out, I take the opportunity to rest my now worn-out legs. Freewheeling, I look up and take in the vista of the opposing mountain range.

"Moments that last well beyond the adventure."

I catch myself thinking how ridiculously beautiful this all is, how amazing our 2 days of riding has been. It’s truly amazing the places we can experience by bike, every trip is filled with moments that last well beyond the trip. Moments that get etched in our brains and bring us lasting joy. These moments are why we choose to adventure, why we choose to get on our bikes and just ride. A few friends and little plans…perfect! Just pack a good merino kit, a few spares, lllllooooottttts of snacks and enjoy the frivolity of it all. It really doesn’t matter how big or small your route is, the memories will always outweigh the kilometres covered. And remember - there are no wrong turns in adventure!