Why Fraser's Hill ? Again and again.

If you include the trip to just Sg.Chilling and also the one where I stopped at GAP station, this is the 5th time I am riding on this route. I have been to the peak thrice but I still love to ride here again. The route is cooling and even after noon, the route down is still cooling. That is off course, if you start from Sg.Chilling. If you start the ride from KKB, the part near the dam is going to be HOT!

The route up is considerably safe, not much traffic, sometimes we have the whole road to ourselves, quite near to KL, being just an hour's drive. We don't see much human contact which I see as the ideal as I won't have to be afraid of muggers. There are many stop points, starting with the dam's Visitors Center, Sg.Chilling Kelah Sanctuary, the waterfalls at the 22nd mile and finally GAP station itself where there's a cafe which is open everyday.

Parking in KKB is safe and if you are still doubtful, park in front of the police station. There are many parking spaces there. Ending the ride with a meal is also easy as there are many nice eateries here. The problem with riders are EGO mainly. Many shunned this route because they think it's tough. In actual, this is a very easy riding route. In the first place, Fraser's Hill is not a compulsory destination! The route is a more important criteria in riding our bikes. You can take a simple ride to the dam or do a picnic ride to Sungai Chilling. Sg. Chilling is just a mere 13 km ride. The undulating slopes of the route to Sg.Chilling will give you a good aerobic workout.

Once the initial part is conquered, then proceed to GAP or the waterfall or wherever along the route. There's no compulsion to finish the route. Likewise, if one rides in Hulu Langat 18th mile or Genting Sempah, there's also nothing there, right? It's just a place, a spot, nothing more. Fact is, Fraser's Hill route is so much safer than both mentioned riding venues.

On this trip, it was actually unplanned! We were riding a simple ride the day before and there's still two days of holiday. I was planning a ride to Hulu Langat but a fellow rider decided he wanted to bring his family for a ride to Fraser's Hill. So, I contacted my side and he did likewise. Meeting time and place is the usual and that's it. It's on.

My neighbour can't make it and another two was late so it was decided that they drive straight to the waterfall or GAP to wait for our riding party to meetup. During breakfast, we were undecided on where to start the ride as the weaker few was late. Then I decide to stick to the plan as there were still three riders who has never ridden here before.

We drove to Sungai Chilling which is 13 kilometers away and it took only 20 minutes which shaved off an hour's ride if we were to  start from KKB. I called the late riders to confirm their arrival. And off we went! The surrounding area was misty and cooling and we all took a slow ride to warm up. As usual, I will always be at the back and my wife was even slower as she was riding on her granny gear which I fitted in the night before.

The air was refreshing as usual here and this itself made the ride here worthwhile. The usual checkpoint is the waterfall, 10 kilometers away. The two late riders passed us and I told them to either park their cars at the waterfall or GAP. After a while riding, we reached the waterfall but they were not there, probably because there was no other car there. We regrouped and carried on.

At the small Indian shrine a few kilometers away, there was a small procession of a deity accompanied by drums and followers. They were on the way to the larger shrine near GAP. There was also RELA members to manage the traffic on the narrow road. The RELA saw us and stop the traffic from the opposite side and waved us to pass. This was the only spot where I had to pedal furiously pass the procession. Another few kilometers, the preparation for the arrival of the deity was in full gear! Tents was set up, the road blocked to one single lane and cars parked all along the road. We pedalled carefully with the help of more RELA members and this is also where I sighed a relief as GAP is just round the corner.

We saw the two other riders taking pictures on the hanging bridge and after seeing us they followed us. We took a rest at the cafe and I ordered a burger as I was hungry. Funnily though, I am always hungry riding this route. We continued to the peak and since Helen and Vincent are on 8 speed only, I am very sure they can't catch up with the rest. Except for Clement on 16 speed, the rest was either 24 or 27 speeders. Even mine and Lilian's foldies are 27 speeders. I took the back position and there were many cars that day. It was a long holiday weekend.

Problem with some drivers are, they think the road was built only for cars! These selfish drivers needs to be sent to Vietnam to rehabilitate their driving attitude! It seems like we are slowing them down. We were riding in a single file and far apart, what else do they want? Still they honked at us. Anyway we rode on without any untoward incident. Little by little, Helen and Vincent increased their gap with the front riders and at the 5th km out of 8 km Helen stopped for a moment and then started to push her bike, but just for a moment. 

The last 2 kilometers of the road up is actually easier as the gradient eased up a little and have some level parts. Finally at last, both of them cross the guard house and join the rest at the clock tower. I am very sure we won't be having lunch here today due the number of crowd so we rested and then took a few snapshots and left. I reminded them again and again, the road down is dangerous and do it slow. I can tell others but Lilian is a downhill freak! She was out of sight after a while and loud thunder made me chase after her. I never rode downhill this fast but today I need to catch up with her! After a while, lost between waiting for the others or continue chasing after Lilian, I stop at a spot where I can see a part of the road further downhill. I saw Lilian passing and then I waited for the rest. The rest was in sight and I started catching up with Lilian and I was expecting Lilian to be near the long bridge but she was not. I rode further and finally saw Lilian sitting on the roadside. She said it was quite eerie near the bridge so she waited near somewhere with sunlight.

We regrouped and went zooming down. We reached the GAP cafe again but then decided to have our meal (not lunch anymore) in KKB. Helen and Vincent folded their bikes and packed into their car and I wish goodbye to both of them. The rest of us, there's still another 20 kilometers to go, albeit easy coasting down. We regrouped again near the waterfall and a few kilometers from Sungai Chilling, I am still fresh after resting and coasting I pedalled all the way back to Sg.Chilling even if it was downhill.

Sungai Chilling was packed with visitors and there were others waiting for our parking spots. I reversed my car out and so did Clement for them to park in first. After securing their bikes, we made our way to KKB for our deserved meal. Before that I showed Clement where the famous pastry shop and they bought quite a lot. Then to the little coffee shop where there's nice 'curry mee'. It was not the 'curry mee' that made my day, it was the home made soya bean milk! Sold in 1.5 liter bottles, we ordered two!

We ended our ride here after the meal but I am very sure this will not be be the last ride here. Even now, a bike/hiking trip to the Chilling waterfalls is in the works! Planning with SC Chin and we just need a date. Until then..........

Chilling waterfalls, anyone? Biking and Hiking and picnic!

A Wonderful Agony!

After going back to cycling as a pastime and also for sweating it out, I have invites for rides to Fraser's Hill. Because of my slow pace of riding and also doubts about my own fitness and endurance, I have always avoided those time consuming rides. After hearing many adventures of the rides, I decided to do it on my own and not seeing those rides on Facebook.

I started initially with an easy one. I first checked out the last stage from Gap to Fraser's Hill itself. I, Lilian (my wife) and Mabel (my daughter) went one day and did just that. It was not hard at all! Seems the ride from Hulu Langat to Genting Peras was much harder. Then another week, I did from Sungai Chilling to Fraser's Hill and also it was within my capability and then another week, I did Kuala Kubu to GAP. I was supposed to go for the peak but after resting at GAP, I was a bit tired and also my thighs were aching. I did another KKB to Chilling ride with Ah Fatt and it took us only 90 minutes. I have actually wanted to guide Helen and gang to do this ride and continue doing until we can finish the whole route, just like I did. If we all can do this, we all can do any ride together. It may take 3 times or 4 times or even 5 times but eventually we will finish the whole route. But getting all riders together seems elusive! Probably, they are mentally blocked by the uphill route. Clement was also initially hesistant, not because of himself but his wife but after doing it, both husband and wife completed and find it not that hard. After this, there's no hill they can't cycle!

Then, finally I caught hold of a few other regular riders and I decided to do it again. Clement wanted to do it that Sunday, so I called up a few. Initially Helen was going but then at the last moment Vincent backed out! So, there were 3 riders that won't be going. Anyway, the plan is already in motion and that morning, I drove to Kuala Kubu Bahru and on the way I saw 'Ah Fatt' riding to the meet up point. I called also Zolkaflee and it seems he's already in Serendah. That made 6 riders altogether. Two couples (Clement and wife and me and wife) plus 'Ah Fatt' and Zolkaflee. Before we left, a group of Ori bikers arrived. It seems they are planning the same ride too and among them was Norman, a familiar cyclist. Zolkaflee arrived a bit late and as soon as he arrived, we started off. 

It took quite a while for Lilian to warm up and luckily the morning sun was cooling and I was riding slow with her while the rest speed off. Just before we reach the dam, a few Ori bikers overtook me. A call from 'Ah Fatt' telling me they were within the dam compound, so I turned left into the dam. I rested a took a few photos before we continued again.

Regrouping at the dam.

Just outside, on the main road the Ori bikers was regrouping. We rode on after wishing them. It's quite near from here to Sg.Chilling, our next regrouping point. As usual, due to Lilian's aggravating back pain, we rode slow and soon part of the Ori bikers overtook us again. Two groups has already merged into a single group. Not long after, we reached the old Bailey bridge and there they were, waiting for us. We took a few photos and I enquired if Norman has pass us. Just as I mention him, we saw him riding towards us. He threw his bike to the side and had a group photo with us.

Sungai Chilling

Off we went again and this time the next regrouping point will be at the waterfall at the 22nd mile from KKB to Fraser's Hill road. Sg.Chilling is 12.8 km as recorded on my GPS. So, the next check point is another 10 km but this time is all uphill. Ah Fatt told my wife to carry on riding as he says bike riding is a form of therapy for back pains! And he added," It must be an uphill ride". As we rode on, a member of the Ori biker had a cramp! I was just passing and asked if they needed help but they say it's OK. So, we carried on but Ah Fatt and Zolkaflee and also Clement was rushing down to see if we are all OK. I must appreciate this examplary biking camaraderie spirit. Although not our group, we all must still assist! They were OK, it was just a cramp. I did notice though, when their last rider past, her seat was too high and at every stroke of the pedal, she was pulling her calf muscles.

On and on we rode and the GPS was recording 21.5 km. I was relief that I will be able to rest  and it's only another 500 meters. But alas! the GPS was recording 23 km then 24 km but the waterfall was still not in sight. Finally, after a turn, I saw Zol's bright orange fluorescent shorts and I heaved a sigh of relief! I took some shots of them and rested a while and off we went again.

A very fit couple, Clement and wife.

The strongman on the right and the best sweeper on the left!

Next will be lunch stop at GAP. That's another 10 km ride! The road is still winding up with no downhill or level road. Me and Lilian was the last of the combination of two groups and we really took it slow, really slow. Halfway, another group emerged! They were all on road bikes with green jerseys. As usual, we rode past a small shrine and this marked that we have another 5 km or so to ride. After 3 km, the inclination gets easier and finally I saw the fence of an old building, then another shrine on the right and that marks the destination is just round the corner.

A deserving breather at the GAP cafe.

We rode past the GAP's cafe and hollered to others, " We need to piss ". The toilet is past the cafe. We joined them later and I just can't eat anything at this stage. I refilled my water bottle and had a cold 100PLus. I saw the lady rider (the one who suffered a cramp) just going up the hill. I rested another 10 minutes and off we went but not before Clement, Ah Fatt and Zol asked my wife if she wants too. Lilian said it's OK.

We inched up the hill, stroke by stroke, turn by turn. The ride up this part seems really harder from my last visit! Lilian was already really tired at this juncture and I can only coax. After all, there's only a few more kilometers. At the 4th km mark, I saw a couple sitting by the roadside. They were cheering for us. She was the rider that suffered the cramp. I must admire her spirit! Even after suffering cramps, she still carried on. I tried to motivate her by saying, "Another 4 kilometers more and after two, the road gets level". Initially, I thought so too! Lilian was tired and we stop to have a bun each and the couple overtook us and this time we cheered for them.

After resting, we carried on and I saw the couple pushing their bikes now. We rode and pass them but very slow. I noticed that pushing the bikes covers 3.5 km/h and we can only ride 5 to 6 km/h. I teased her saying, " Everyone is laughing at the peak". She replied, " Let them, I am happy just to reach the top". I gave her a thumbs up and rode past her. We pass the 3 km marker then 2 km and finally the ultimate 1 km marker. A few hundred meters after that, I saw red flower blooms and I called out to Lilian, " I can see flowers already". Ah Fatt and Zol was at the guardhouse waiting for us.

The customary shot!

Clement was hungry and went for a bite with wifey. We rode to the sundry shop and I filled myself with another 100Plus. After a deserved rest we went to the customary photo at the clock tower. After that, I heard from Clement that Norman(the other group)  wanted to descend with us and he's waiting at the food court with the rest of the Oribikers. So, we have to ride uphill again to the food court (another groan from Lilian). We were supposed to have lunch at the eatery there but Norman told us the workers are annoyed at the packed crowd. There was no empty table anyway, so we decided to take lunch back at GAP. Zol misunderstood us and thought we were having lunch at the clock tower! That was why he told us to carry on and he will catch up later.

The 'angin' shop where all the Oribikers were having lunch.

We descended and we were on the route that I hated most about this trip. The new road down is not all the way down but a very badly designed road with uphills and downhills and longer and also has many bridges. The weight of me going downhill on this stretch must have stressed the tires as I had two punctures here. Not one but two! Lilian was grumbling as she was just after a high climb when someone shouted ,"Pancit, pancit!" She was carrying the other spare inner tube and she rode down while grumbling. Hahaha. Ah Fatt and Clement help me this time to change the inner tubes and after that we carried on and there's still no sight of Zol. Just as I was about to ride, Zol called and asked us about our location. I told him we are almost near GAP and he was suprised! He thought we are still on the peak. The Ori bikers have all past us, including Norman who was even faster to leave when ask to help us. Hahaha!

We reached back at the GAP cafe and ordered a few 'mee goreng', that's only what they have as it was late. It was nearing 4.00pm now! We still have to wait for Zol to regroup. The Oribikers have left! Zol regrouped after a while and said it was eerie riding alone at the road down. After eating we zoomed down and I took it slow as my tires were under inflated and Clement was behind me all the time. Zol was waiting for us at one point and together we rolled down while the first pack, Ah Fatt, Lilian and Clement's wife was nowhere in sight. There was not much pedalling here, just coasting down. 

We regrouped at Chilling and there's still two more uphill to go. The first one was easy but the second one to the dam is higher. The ride climaxed at the apex of the last climb! After this is again all the way down, much faster than the previous descend. Ah Fatt said this is the first time he rode the whole day! Hehehe, thanks to me and Lilian.

Almost back to town I stopped at a junction where Ah Fatt always take a short cut home. He has to cycle another 7 km! I baded goodbye and me and Zol rode on to catch up with the rest. Since it was 'puasa' month, I told Zol to go back first and Clement and wife together with me and Lilian had another late lunch before departing back to KL.

It's not what bikes we ride but it's who we ride with. I must thank Ah Fatt and Clement for being such a sport. It was fun although punishing and I call this "A wonderful agony". It was really a very enjoyable ride, best I had so far!

It's almost 1100 meters climb in 40 kilometers.

A Beginners Ride on An Advanced Route

GENTING PERAS (Selangor.NS border)

The 5 foldies belonging to us

I have met Helen on the internet. She was asking around for recommendations on what folding bikes to get as she was just starting to ride. I, off course a Dahon rider recommends Dahon FIRST! She finally settled for a Dahon Speed P8 for her husband and she chooses a Tern Link 8 speeder. They also have another pally who choose a Dahon MU P8.

When I first showed them around Putrajaya for their inaugural ride, they were really slow! I was yawning on the ride, hahaha! And it ended after sunset. Then on the second week, I changed Vincent's original brake sets to a better brake system. Helen has to work so she didn't turn up and I took them around Putrajaya lakeside and this time they were quite adjusted to their bikes. Ong Lay Hoon and Steven joined us for that ride. The rode an extra 40 kilometers, to and fro from Puchong. For the beginners, we did a 20 kilometer loop around the lake. The I decided to take them to Genting Peras. They were OK but I think they just agreed blindly, hehehe.

They were a bit reluctant but I cajoled them into the ride. I told them to do the first stage first which is a 12 kilometer flat route till the Semenyih junction. There's only a last slope at the end. Before the ride I chatted with another new rider, Earl Ku. He is not really new actually, except the last time he rode was 15 years ago! He also got himself a foldie but a 26 incher. We made a date to ride together and I also roped in Zolkaflee, my neighbour. He is a very reliable sweeper and caring rider.

All 7 of us met in Hulu Langat 18th mile. Set up our bikes and after a 'leak stop' for Helen, we were on our way. I took the last position to sweep. There were many other riders that morning and as usual road bikes seems to like this route. It was a cool morning as it rained last night, in fact, there was a slight drizzle when I drove to the meeting point. We all took it slow and they were enjoying a 'kampong ride' for the first time. Finally we came to the last climb to the junction and Helen (this is her 2nd ride) was struggling but she made it.

From left : Earl Ku, Vincent, Zolkaflee, Helen, Lilian and James.

All of them looked so fresh so I decided to take them to the hilly ride! I convinced them by telling them, " we just ride as far as we can and if we can't complete, we turn back". As usual I was sweeping Helen at the rear and Lilian and Zol taking the lead. At the 4th kilometer point (there are markings painted on the road), Earl Ku stopped and he was gasping. I told him to rest for a while before continuing. I told Helen to go on first. Then Earl told me he can't carry on. As the others are all so far in front, I told Earl to rest and then head back down to the junction and wait for us. He agreed and I rode off to catch up with the others. A little ahead, Zol was chatting with some kids on the roadside. I told him Earl gave up and I rode ahead to catch up the others.

Helen was not far ahead and I followed her at the back. Lilian, James and Vincent was out of sight. So, we slowly trudged up. I can see Helen was tired but was quite determined. She rode quietly, concentrating on the ride and I kept motivating her with phrases like, " there's a level road in front " or " it's quite near already " and finally, I told her, " this is a no return point ". I mean, we are almost there already, we should push the bike up even if we can't ride, hehehe. The last slope, she suddenly stopped and she told me, she needs a rest. 

I suggested we change our rides. She agreed! Mine has an upgraded double chain ring so I adjusted to the smaller chainring for her to ride while I took over her Tern 8 speed. It was still OK for me as I was still using the bigger chain ring all the way up. When we continued, she rode for another 15 minutes before she stopped again. I already saw the sign post at Genting and I told her to push on. Then she said she will push and we swapped bikes again. I rode and joined the rest while she struggled the last meters and she rode the last few hundred meters. She made it! It's her second ride only.

As usual, merry bantering is a must while resting at the destination. After 20 minutes and 'Kodak moment' , time to push off. Lilian rode off, down hill is her favorite. Just before I can mount, I saw Zol riding up! I thought he was keeping Earl company, obviously not! He rode to me and told me Earl was just beyond the bend. His legs are cramped! I told Zol, he gave up already and Zol motivated him up!

I told Zol that he might as well push the whole remaining distance as it is so near. At least he made it too. That he did and at last, we saw Earl pushing up his bike till the signboard. Finally they all made it. Then I saw Lilian ridng up AGAIN! Hahaha. 

Time for some nice and cooling 'barley' drink. I cautioned them about the down hill riding. Off we went, Zol and myself keeping to the back at all times. Almost near the junction, the cover of my torch light came flying off! The tire pressure must be a bit too much! I spent 5 to 10 minutes looking for the lens and the cover and finally found it!

The slow ride continued from here till the small town and at the last few kilometers, I can see Helen is really tired. Still we have finish it. Slowly we met up with James and Vincent and it seems Vincent had a fall when he was trying to answer the phone. Nothing serious though. Lilian was missing not in sight at all. Later at the 'coffee shop' she told me she needs to 'pee', that's why she was rushing. We had the famous 'barli botol' at the  'coffee shoppe' but seems 'nasi lemak bungkus' has all been sold out. We promised to ride again next week and bade goodbyes.

For a more detailed trip analysis, click ;

http://www.brytonsport.com/mapTrackView/2?id=3695363

A "pre-ride" RIDE to Fraser's Hill.

The symbolic picture!

After the Sungai Chilling ride, I heard there was a plan for a night ride from KKB to Fraser's Hill. As excited as I was, the ride was just tentative as mentioned by Johnny. Anyway, I just hope for the best. I have always wanted to ride to Fraser's Hill but lack of confidence was always the stumbling block! Most rides encompass roadies which I really don't want to join as they are fast riders and I might as well ride on my own if I were to join road bikes. After all, the greetings at the start is just a formality and maybe a chat at the destination and a 'bye-bye' after that. Not much of interaction. I don't even remember them or neither can they remember me when we meet next time.

After a casual chat with Ah Fatt of My Bike Shop, who described the ride is not that difficult, I decided to follow Nike's motto, " Just Do It ". I was supposed to join Ah Fatt for breakfast at 7.00 am that morning but the jam in KL during weekdays is making me late. I reached Kuala Kubu Bahru (KKB) at almost 8.00am! I still went for breakfast at the 'wanton mee' shop but Ah Fatt was long gone! The lady asked me quite rudely, " Apa minum?" I was taken aback and my daughter was laughing. I replied, " Teh ais, kasi itu mee wanton, chee yok banyak banyak! " Why did she asked me in Bahasa? Am I getting too dark? Common sense tells that, I can't be Indian and a Malay won't patronize there, right? " Good Grief! , I must look like an aborigine nowadays" I thought to myself. I was supposed to start the ride from here but since I am late and I thought it might be wiser if I shave off 10 kilometers from the ride. I suggested to Lilian and Mabel that we start from the dam.

Our breakfast!

After having breakfast, we drove off and on reaching the dam, I changed my mind again and decided to start from Sungai Chilling. A place I last rode to! It was just a short drive and the car mileage read just 10 kilometers from KKB. After finding a shady good spot to park the car, we set up our bikes and then did a few strokes to warm up a bit. Then off we go.

The road doesn't look so steep when we ride but from the former trips I had there, it kind of looks steeper. The ride was uneventful, just riding the slight gradient uphill BUT the uphill don't stop! It just carried on and on and on and on. There was two places where work on the slopes was going on and there were workers who cheered us on. Rather they were cheering at the two ladies not the 'fatty' sweeping behind.

The slope just went up and up!

Twelve kilometers past, we reach a waterfall on the right side of the road. We stopped for a moment and then carried on. The road was still uphill all the way with no levelling off at all but it's not that steep. Nothing that our gears can't handle. It's still an easy ride but a wee slow, that's all. Finally, I saw the shrine on the right hand side and I know Gap is not far now. I been here many times, hiking Ulu Semangkok and also Pine Tree Hill's twin peaks. We were quiet with a few sudden burst of bantering, once in a while. Finally, the hanging bridge was in sight and also the dilapidated Gap Hotel. What a waste! One more turn and we saw the junction. The 'makan' stall was open! Suprise, suprise! We rested a while over a cup of 'teh-O ais limau'. The 'a while' was almost half an hour!

Sore palms.

The last push to the top! This was what I have dreaded. We turn into the first uphill after the junction and I found out that we can still do it without maximizing our gears! It was mentioned 8 kilometers to Fraser's Hill. Slowly but steadily we rode up, careful not to over exert. The 7 kilometer marker stone pass by and subsequently the 6 kilometer and then 5 kilometer until the last 1 kilometer. Apart from a few utility trucks and a few tourist vehicles, we had the road all by ourselves. That was not so hard! It was suprising. And I hesitated all this while. The last 2 kilometers was actually easy riding and with a newly paved tarmac, it was pleasant!

The phone has to ring when we were enjoying.

The first shop was a small sundry shop and Mabel went in for 2 bottles of cold '100 plus'. The chinese restaurant opposite was closed. I had dinner there last time after we hiked Pine Tree Hill last year. That hike was gruelling! After a few sip, we rode on to the clock tower. The iconic Fraser's Hill roundabout with   the clock tower. A few man asked me to help them take their group photo and I did that. We chatted for a moment and after they left, we took our symbolic photos and decided to descend.

100 plus to celebrate!

Eeeeeeww! to descend, we have to ride to Jalan Lurah which is past the Paddock where I did some archery before. The road was uphill again and after resting, we were sluggish! The road down was 2 kilometers longer than the road uphill and there were also a few climbs between the down hilling. The speed limit stated on the sign was 30 kmh but from my cyclometer, we were doing like 40 kmh at most parts! I wonder if they can give us a ticket? Halfway down, there was a loud ambulance siren wailing. I hollered to them and advised them to stop. We hauled our bikes up the grass verge and waited for the ambulance to pass. After passing, we carried on and after another 2 kilometers we were at the Gap road junction. We still had to ride UP again to the 'makan' stall at Gap junction.

The view on the way down.

Reaching there, Lilian rushed into the 'emergency room'. Must have been very 'bladderful' for her. Mabel joined her and we rested at the tea stall for a moment and then twenty, YES! 20 kilometers of downhill till Sungai Chilling. The best part was the downhilling was not steep but gradual slope down all the way. A ride pass the bridge again and then we were all set to Hoooooooooray! My hands were numb from holding on the handlebars. We were zooming down for almost 40 minutes because at certain point, there was construction debris on the roadside and also one or two places with fallen branches. In no time we saw a big metal bin on the roadside with rubbish spewing out! We pass it on the way up this morning. How disgusting! I knew we reached Sungai Chilling again.

We felt lousy that we have to climb again after reaching Gap road.

We were in joy but our palms were sore! It took us a while to fold back the bikes and stuff 3 bikes into the car and leave a space for another passenger at the rear. Started the car and drove to KKB for a late lunch. we reached the restaurant, "Tan Seow Woi". I didn't eat there the other day but I will today. The signature ' mui choy pork' was sold out! The others still available was the 'tow foo fish' and the 'steamed salted fish pork' with lots of ginger. The usual 'leong cha' was the drink for 3 of us. We sat there and took a leisurely lunch till they close, in fact they have to wait for our table. Then the drive back. Even before reaching Ampang Pecah, both of them were already sleeping. Guess it going to be me and 'Lite and Easy' all the way back to KL. Before that I stopped over at Serendah for the YeeKee's ' kai tan koh ' which is also incidently closed when I was there the last trip.

A hearty meal after the ride.

RASA  TO  SUNGAI CHILLING  

A bike packing adventure.

It's been a while since I have last hike a hill or a mountain but I am enjoying the hiatus. It's good for my sore knees anyway. I have since restarted cycling, a sport that I have also long given up. My last biking activity was way back in the Y2K eras. I was into mountain biking those days and that was in Langkawi where I resided at that time.

The reason why I choose folding bike over going back to MTB was mainly because of price factor. Secondly me and Lilian's (my wife) old bones won't be able to take crashes now. So, leisure fitness ride is the wise way to go. Foldies are able to fit that category. Since my first purchase, a few months ago, I have since gone quite far in upgrading my 'foldies' and also the other two 'foldies' of my wife and daughter.

Last Sunday, there was a ride organized by My Bike Shop's , Johnny whom I got to know while I was going round bike shops around the Klang valley. There are many other bigger shops but I seem to like the personal touch of Johnny's shop. The shop organized a "Bikepacking Ride" which started from Kepong Komuter station and then on to Rawang for a transit to Rasa which is a small town north of KL. After that we will then proceed to Kuala Kubu Baru (KKB) for breakfast and then continue to the final destination which is " Sungai Chilling Kelah Santuary ".  Kelah is actually a prized freshwater fish which was almost fish till extinct until the Fisheries came in to save the species. It is actually the famous 'Masheer' species. Well, that was the plan, anyway.

I packed mine and Lilian's bike into bags that was purchased earlier for the purpose. This was required by the train authority. Early morning, I stuffed the two huge bags into the small Kancil and drove to Rawang where I was supposed to meet a few other riders. I did not want to meet in Kepong because I feel Kepong and Rawang makes not much of a difference since I am driving from Kajang and also save the hassle of switching trains in Rawang. I reached Rawang even before dawn broke and it was dark! Looking around, I decided to drive all the way up to Rasa as I actually am quite familiar with the places as I have been hiking around KKB quite often.

Some riders boarding in Rawang.

I was still early when I reached Rasa and so decided to have breakfast whilling away the time. I saw a taxi in front of a noodle shop and so we headed for that too. The 'wanton noodle' was .................errrr not so my taste but it's good to fill the stomach before the ride. After finishing breakfast there were already 3 riders there. It has to be Johnny's group so we just exchanged greetings and after a while a few more vehicles piled into the car park. I thought there were only one who has decided to drive up to here but I was wrong!

A group photo before ride commence.

The other riders arrived late, and it was already very bright by now. A fellow rider called up and they were still on the train in Serendah! That means they just boarded the train and it was already past 8.00 am. Anyway, they arrived and after setting up their bikes we all rode in a single file past the town's market. The town's folk must have wondered what's going on with suprising looks in their eyes. It must have been a sight to them with so many cyclist riding toy bikes!

Keep on ridin'

We were cautious when we rode along the federal trunk road and after a while we reached the junction to Ampang Pecah ( which is also known as Kuala Kubu Lama actually ) which also leads to KKB. This was the original site of the old town during the British colonial times and this was also the main trading town between Pahang and Selangor. During those days , there were railway lines linking this town to the port. They are used to transport tin ore from the Pahang regions. In fact there is an old wreck of a locomotive somewhere hidden in the hills. Those days there was no Karak Highway or Bentong road and this was the only way to Pahang via Gap which is the foothills of Fraser's Hill. In fact, the Resident General of those days have a bunglaow on the peak of Bukit Kutu ( also known as Treacher's Hill ). The hill peaking at 1050 metres also housed a sanatorium (not mental cases) for the British residents to take a break. There was a horse carriage road all the way to the top but has since been covered by foliage. The trail has been rediscovered by the hiking club of the Fire Department there. Both the bungalow and the sanatorium was destroyed during World War 2 but the remains are still there. The dam broke and flooded the old town and that's why the new town was shifted to the present KKB.

Only the chimney stack is still there from the old bungalow. 

There's a well at the side there, still with clean water.

When we reached KKB, we regrouped and then we rode into the small town for their famous 'wanton noodles'. When you have a horde of 36 hungry riders storming into the noodle shop, it causes quite a stir! Many have to wait for tables and as I have already had my breakfast, I just stood at the junction but eventually there was an empty table. It took quite some time to actually feed all of us and some riders rode to the market to buy the famous 'roast pork'. I heard there was two stalls and both are equally good depending on your taste and they both from both stalls, they called it ' the left and the right '. Hahaha!

A variety of folding bikes in front of the wanton mee shop.

Some went over to the famous bakery to buy some pastries, probably for their lunch in Chilling. They took some time there too as there was a local drama shooting there and they took the opportunity to take snapshots with the actors. After more waiting, we were on the way to Chilling. The sun was almost overhead. Past the trees and then the hot sun began to work on our backs. It was really blazing hot and the road was going up and up and up. A good few kilometers of uphill, me and Lilian finally saw them resting under some trees at the junction to the dam. It was a relief! It took some time for all of us to regroup again and when we all were there, we rode into the dam area. There, there was a vending machine and a cool 100 plus was heaven sent!

Resting at the dam.

While we were resting there, Sam Cheong also known as 'Samosaurus' rode in with his wife Michelle. They are quite well known among the foldie's community and Sam Cheong who has described quite a lot of his food and biking experiences in the dailies. I finally saw him in person. In fact he was supposed to meet us in KKB but as we were late the couple rode first and in actual fact they were riding back from Chilling. We parted with him going back to KKB while we continued on to Chilling. There was a few speedsters too and the ladies are really competitive! We have 'Speedy Gonzalez', 'The Road Runner', 'Speed Racer' etc. We were like a scene from 'Wacky Races'.

The ride was not so bad after this, just another 7 kilometers with slight rolling hills. We finally arrived and we rode straight into the Fisheries compound. We registered, regardless of whether we wanted to hike into the Chilling Falls or not. I, in fact has hiked there three times already during my hiking days. They were enjoying the cool river and having fun while me and Lilian just sat there enjoying the natural surroundings.

Riders happily immersing themselves in the cool river.

Johnny announced that we will leave at 1.30 pm. At that time we were all ready and rode onto the little off road trail and back onto the tarmac. The ride back was also very hot! We regrouped back at the dam and took a breather there. Then when everyone arrived, we continued. From here onwards it was fun. I was fully rested and instead of coasting all the way down, I shifted into high gear and pedalled all the way. I overtook all until another two front riders decided to join in and the three of us were zooming all the way till KKB again. A check with my cyclometer reads 49 kmh, a first time on my foldie.

We waited until everyone arrives and again we all went for another big feast! Some opted for the famous 'Tan Seow Woi' restaurant and some which also incudes myself want just a simple 'cendol' under a big angsana tree to quench our parched throat. We were chatting and bantering under the tree enjoying our 'cendol'. Time past and we have to leave again. Some went to get the pastries at Teng Wun to bring home and some opted to ride to KKB railway station which will shave off 8 kilometers compared to Rasa's station. Half of us decided to ride back to Rasa. So, the group splintered into 2 groups one leaded by Cikgu Chin and another by Johnny.

Kak Jah cendol under the 'yum yum' tree.

We arrived back at Rasa at 4.20 pm and hastily I rode to the shade. I drove my car to the bikes as it was under the shade. It took me some time to load back the bikes into the car and after a 'honk' and a wave, I waved goodbye to the other riders.

It was an enjoyable and relaxing but tiring ride. Sense of camaraderie among us was strong and understanding was full with regards to those who brought kids to ride. It was a real fun ride. Next ! The Fraser's Hill Night Ride. Hopefully all those that rode on this trip will be riding too.

For those who are curious what to expect when hiking into Chilling Falls , here a collage of a few pictures from my former hiking trips.

Bukit Kutu - 6th October

A local resident of Pertak

I haven't been writing blogs for some time now, mainly due to the fact that I have getting lazy. The lull was also because Alex KL Hiking was hiking in Indonesia and that takes another week. I did joined Kayee on one of his hikes in FRIM though. Mabel was not working on this Saturday and the hike organized this Saturday was a Bukit Kutu hike. Seems so many are hiking this wonderful hill, there was two organized in Facebook alone the past week. I don't usually missed hikes where my whole family is available to hike on the same day so I signed up for it, for all three of us.

It was 4.30am when I hopped out of bed. I couldn't get a wink since midnight yesterday. I just loitered around the house, staring at the PC and then woke Mabel up. Lilian was already up and we set off at 5.30am. The route to Kuala Kubu Bahru was becoming very familiar but I usually take the Rawang route. I drove very slowly as I anticipated that with 50 hikers and the number of cars, the hike won't usually start at the expected time. I stopped by at an Indian coffee shop in KKB and had a simple 'roti canai' bread and a mug of tea.

 Group Photo

 At 7.15am we started off to Kg.Pertak. Although I expected the hike to start late, I still don't want to be late at the appointed time. I reached Kg.Pertak at 7.25am and a few hikers were already there. Parking space near the bridge was quite full but we managed to get a space. Put on our hiking shoes and also ease ourselves, Satvin arrived with Sumi. After a while, the whole horde arrive and as usual Alex passed me the name tags. It was 8.00am. The hike started off!

River crossing, not hard but still needs to be careful.

Went over the bridge and along the 4WD trail. Follow on the trail leaving the left junction we came to the river crossing. Just before the crossing a group photo was taken and then the river crossing after taking off our shoes. There's was another smaller crossing after 100 meters to the left so we walk bare footed there. When I was a kid, I can run all over the village barefooted, even getting spiked by nails! Now, it was a torture getting over that distance, must be the condition of our body. It is said that you can pinpoint our weakness through the points in our sole. Seems my whole body organs is out of shape as every part pebbles spiked, it was painful!

I have done Kutu a few times and I know the trail fairly well but I am really out of shape. My breath was not regular and I was gasping for air all the time. By the time we started climbing, Kutu is all climbing! I was already panting. I am really out of shape and I am in trouble for this hike. Luckily for me, that is, Siva was also not feeling well due to flu! At lest someone was with me all the time and Satvin although capable of hiking anywhere she wants to, complains about tiredness. Almost reaching CP5, that's where the big boulder is, which I will label "The Hangar", I said to myself, "I am going to rest there and wait there". I am going no further!

Finally we reached the "Hangar" and sat there with the usual back markers. Alex was with us. I told them my intentions and Siva was with me. Satvin initially agreed too, then Alex and Sumi frowned. After the jokes and banter, we continued and there was no question of staying behind! At this stage, I was not actually thinking about the climb but rather about the later stages,  descending! At one stage, Siva was panting and he told Alex to go ahead and I quickly added, " Yes, go on, I will sweep". Satvin was doubtful, she remarked," they are up to something". Lilian was also quite out of form, after all she hikes with me all the time. So, we trudge on and on and on and....................... Then even Siva was out of our sight.........not at the back butin front, and with me with me was Lilian. Finally, we saw Alex and the rest (the backmarkers lah) waiting for us in CP8.

The "Hangar"

I made it to the top at 12.20pm and that's 4 hours 20 minutes hike which was 50 minutes more than usual for us on this trail. Anyway, we did managed to reach the top but my worries is descending. My whole body is aching and the peak was like a festival or sorts. As I heard there were groups of 50s and 30s and another 50s hiking up today. KLH itself is numbering in the 50s. There was not a proper place to rest. I didn't want to climb the boulder at the peak, knowing very well it's packed up there. Lilian went up there to check on Mabel and after a while she joined me with Mabel in tow behind. 

This is how we accumulate "chi" as Siva instructed, hahahah.

I hung on for a while and at 1.00pm, I suggested to Lilian that we descend first. I know I am going to be very slow as my knees are sore already. I don't want to slow down the group. "We can wait for them at the "Hangar", I said. She agreed and so three of us made our way down first. There were already many who had left at that time. Slowly we made our way down and within the hour we were already back at the "Hangar". There was a hiker there cooking with 2 stoves. I found a nice place to rest. I should have brought a mat today! I chatted with the elderly hiker and after 30 minutes, I bade goodbye and left. The bees was flitting all around me as I sat there as I was sweating like a downpour. I was stung by two of them. I think I am going to wait for Alex at the river crossing.

An hour from the car park, Michiko and her daughter caught up with us. They were fast! Tham was with them. We met many hikers and campers on their way up. Finally I heard a "Hooray!" from Mabel. That's a sign we made it back to the river. It was 4.15pm. Mabel was already wading across the river in her shoes but Lilian and me took it off. We rested on the rocks dipping our poor soles, not 'souls' into the cool water. I chatted with a mountain guide who reached there after a while. Then I put on my shoes and continued, I think I will wait for Alex at the car park, heheheh! I need to clean myself up.

Another 15 minutes, we crossed the two metal bridge and I was wiping myself with the cooling water. After a while waiting, my tummy was growling and was thirsting for cold water. I know, I know the thermal shock will do more harm but a cold sweet liquid sounded like a good idea now. I only had an apple since the hike started! After resting, the appetite returned and the hunger was harder to bear. I am looking like a creature of comfort now, huh? I think Alex would be fine with Siva, Sumi and Satvin. Chin was also not out yet. So, I left for KKB for a meal and then home.

By the time I reached home, it was already 7.15pm. How about that? I spent a whole daylight time today breaking my back and enduring hunger and thirst. Why? Maybe other hikers can tell me. It's getting to puzzling to me too!