Given the forecast temperature for January 3rd is only just above freezing, I propose we defer the ride to January 10th and hope for an improvement.
What about a ride into Portsmouth? I suggest a ferry ride across to Portsea, cycle into old Portsmouth and back across the ferry or (for those that prefer a longer ride) up Eastern Road and across Farlington Marshes.
As I write this the ferry has announced a new winter timetable, but not published it. We’ll need to check the new times are suitable.