You're right Peter.

I've actually got all the bad weather gear...and top quality stuff too, from my intended cross-world trip. Mostly 'Altura' brand. Been hanging in the wardrobe for the past 5 years.

I gave myself a good scolding afterwards for being a weak-willed so and so.

However, I do also have another excuse for having aborted this maiden journey on this particular (son's) bike, in that my chainset/crank had a bad wobble on it.

After closer examination, looks like the bottom bracket is knacked...dammit.