That is definitely an attention gathering outfit you have on. Without the placards, I don't know what I would think if I ran into someone dressed like that. No doubt the wind caused havoc with the placards but, on a ride like that the placards are good for making your voice heard, or getting word out. On an event I just rode this past weekend with BikeWNC, we used a flag strapped to the rear of the bike. This did a good of getting the word out without being too affected by the wind, though we didn't have 40 knot winds either. I don't think a flag would last too long in that environment but, even if it started shredding it could be replaced at each stop. I like the flag approach.

Your friends appear equipped for the long haul as there is a lotta gear on those bikes. No telling what their bikes weigh - but they have a good attitude from the picture. Bet this is not their first time on an event like this.

I'd like to get over to the UK for some riding sometime. Maybe next year's 50+ reunion event can be held there. We wouldn't need hills with winds like that.