All the talk around the office is of how the summer has ended (it hasn’t, clearly, they’re just being negative) but whether one of nature’s seasons is ending and another is beginning, one thing is clear; the cyclo-cross season is upon us.

Know, I’m only aware of this because of the sudden increase in amount of chatter about Dugast tubs and chainring ratios on various social media networks and among my riding mates. And I have to admit, it’s contagious.

The last couple of years I’ve dabbled in cyclo-cross, only realising the season is underway sometime deep into the winter – when in fact it has been in full swing for months – and doing a mere handful of races. Before deciding it’s just too much hard work and sacking it in and returning to the lonely furrow of long steady training rides.

But this year (might) be different. I’ve decided (I think) that I’m going to have a go at riding a full season (well most of it) of cyclo-cross in and around London. It remains to see how much of this (admittedly flaky) promise I can hold up, but I’m going to be more determined than past years.

Right, better dash, got a ‘cross bike to piece back together and give a service and clean to.