This month’s ride started at the Brickmakers Arms (new Christmas tradition..?). The weather was destined to be around 23 slightly overcast with potential rain, much cooler than the 30 degrees of the previous day. The Brompton line-up grew larger the closer it got to starting time. As if on cue – rain was thrown down at 11am for at least 2 minutes, scattering everyone to the nearby tree or pub walkway. The 16 Brompton Bike line up shows the variety of ‘Christmas’ inspiration themes. Once the ride briefing was over (and Christmas track selected) we were off… winding our way through Brompton & Bowden towards the path away from the city along the River Torrens.

The cycle path was pretty cruisey, with not too many pedestrians, dogs, or joggers for a Sunday. This was nice for a change! I felt that the group was fairly stretched out, but then suddenly we come to an unexpected quick stop in Underdale. It became apparent that Kym had experienced a sudden chain malfunction, which after some assistance was resolved and we were back on the road within five minutes. Leaving the River Torrens behind we weaved our way through the back streets of Underdale and Torrensville, and a few minor pedestrian crossings to get to Love On Cafe.

It was a great little stop! Perfect for the size of the group, which increased by 1 with Tin joining (the benefits of publishing the route in advance). The coffee arrived relatively fast… and the muffins were homemade (great to see baking on premises).

Before the ride it was suggested one of the prizes would be given to the fastest Brompton unfold – if there were people who wanted to compete. Thankfully there were four individuals prepared to take on the challenge (Peter, Richard, Andrew, and Tin) held alongside the cafe. The winner was Richard with a time of 9.98 seconds – impressive! Well done all!

After this entertainment, we got back on the bikes looping back through Mile End, crossing James Congdon Drive at the new pedestrian crossing, before traversing the parklands round the River Torrens, past Adelaide Oval and slightly uphill to North Adelaide. Of course there were back lanes, with only one wrong turn (Kym must of been enjoying the ride too much), before we headed back to Brompton.

There was a brief stop and photo opportunity at Walter Burley Griffin’s Incinerator (yes, the same person who designed Canberra). While there was the traditional Brompton bike photo – it was great to take one with everyone and their Brompton’s. At this point it was announced that Vanessa had won the best dressed outfit and bike. Vanessa really went all out with a complete Christmas theme outfit of a red reindeer skirt and jumper, bag with Christmas decorations and finished with silver shoes, a true top effort! Special mentions – Alison who dressed as the Grinch; Margaret with the Christmas Stockings across the front of the Brompton Bag; both Fei and Daniel with the Hello Kitty themed decorations (kawaii!); and Richard with the colour themed clothing and bow tie – perfectly fitting the theme of Brompton Cycling. After this it was a short ride back to the Brickmakers Arms, where the prizes provided by Brompton Australia and Treadly Cycles were distributed, prior to enjoying a festive lunch. Below highlights the variety of food enjoyed..

Given its the end of the year, Kym and I would like to thank everyone who comes out on the Brompton rides throughout the year. Whether you’ve been to one, or many – we really thank you for coming. You make Adelaide Bromptoneering what it is… otherwise it’s just me and Kym out for yet another bike ride around Adelaide.

We hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas with their family and friends.. and we will get to ride together in 2026.

Attended: 17 Bromptoneers + 1 extra at lunch