The Night Before 27.06.06
The bikes packed.
I had a “dummy run” to the Lake District 2 weeks ago with
my friend, Martin. After a long day in the saddle, I remember him saying to
me, “are you really going to do this sort of mileage, every day, for nearly
3 weeks?”
I’ve gone over and over my list, I can’t get any more in! God! The bikes heavy!
Will I get up on time? Will I make the ferry? Why do I feel so nervous?
I’ve got the best goddamn touring bike on the planet. I’ve got my ‘get out of jail (credit) cards, and all the insurance needed to get me and the bike home in the event of a catastrophe………… So why?
A bit of last minute packing, a quick shower and it’s off to Bee Bo’s (I won’t sleep much).
GOD! THE BIKES HEAVY!
A Journey Of Three Thousand Miles Starts With….. 28.06.06 316 miles
Up and away for 7.30 am. Knew I wouldn’t sleep. Head south thru Melton, towards Kettering, heading for the M11. I’m getting used to the weight, buffeting when passing lorries and the light feel to the front wheel. Stop for a Double Expresso and alter the weight forward on the bike (adjusting knob under the seat) which helps.
Keeping a steady 75 / 80 mph I go onto the M25, over the Dartford Crossing – free to bikes – and arrive in Dover at midday. I get something to eat and am at the ferry in plenty of time.
I meet a couple of bikers, both on their own, and we pass the time on the ferry, Talking about bikes and French roads. We split outside Boulogne and go our separate ways.
I’m on my way, first few boxes ticked, and I’m driving on the wrong side of the road! What a hoot, easy peasy from here ;)
I finally find my first campsite in a place called Poix-De-Picardie,
which probably translates as In The Middle Of Nowhere. I start to develop
a routine – Pitch tent, shower and wash a shirt, have something to eat and
a cup of tea, then out for a sample of the local brew.
It’s worth mentioning, for anyone doing a similar thing that a cup of tea means a jar of QT, (dried milk and tea combined) which tastes ‘close enough’ and cuts out the need to find fresh milk every time you stop. When in Rome is OK most of the time but I like my cuppa!
It’s been a long day but I feel quite good – The bike went like a dream – tomorrow is just another day on the road. Can’t wait!