@Blackhound thanks & good luck whatever you decide. I think you should have a bash again. I'll cheer you on.

I find RRtY easier than SR, even a grim winter one. Mostly that's because of the flexibility around when you ride & the fact you can draw your own route and ride from home. But, the flip side of that is it's easier to not let it happen - because you have a less solid commitment.

I've done a few SR series, but I find the longer ones tough on my own. I think the novelty of the new (in a different part of the country) helps with motivation for those too. The problem with that is the travel. And bikes on trains in the UK are a bit of an inconsistent 'mare.