Dave through the Americas - Tix in hand. 5 days to go... 6.13.02

I've probably gotten in about 30+ miles in the past couple of days running around to bike shops despite the continuous showers here in Miami. I don't mind so much getting out in the rain, because when I start the tour, it'll happen whether I like it or not. I picked up some booties to keep my feet dry. The brand name is Gator and they go above the ankles. They cost me 40 bucks, but I spent a lot of time looking around for others that didn't exist, were only available online (at similar price), or didn't have my size.
I am still on a quest to get correct fitting Aerobars. They are a must since I still have problems with numbness after long rides. I've tried just about everything and I think the answer is just having a variety of hand positions. Right now, I can't get the current set to work with my handlebar bag because they fasten on to the bottom of the bars. I think I need some that attatch to the top so I can have some clearance for the bag.

So, as soon as I feel everything is in working order on the bike, I'll take that baby apart and pack it up in the box for my flight.

Thanks for reading

Dave

Pic: Check it out! It's on paper, I'm ready to go!

Iknow the feeling Dave You want to ride you feel you need to ride BUT there is os much to do so much to get ready not enough time in a day 5 days left when you get up topmorrow there will be only 4 days left, its like going through a funnel then all of a sudden its time to get on the plane an new world opens as the story begin to unfolds.

if you find just enough time to ride arround the home area for 30 minutes that sometimes is all you can find in these last few days , soon youLL be putting in enough miles every day for a while youll be adjusting yopur load of gear and make adjustments to what you really need and dont need at some point all this is going to be a non issue and the biggest decision of the day becomes where to camp, what to eat weather or not to take a side trip to see something interesting, dont worry about what day it is most times people on long tours have no idea what day it is, on a tour of your length you may even forget what month it is occasionally

your in for the adventure of a life time this tour will have lasting efffects, for you and those you share it with good luck to you to you sir, happy pedals, favorable winds be safe and happy
catfish

The rain's been incredible. So much of cycling is about problem solving with a positive mental attitude... pushing past the comfort zones and the fears. You'll be happy to hear I've ridden through my fear of vehicle bridges. Rain would be another one for me and is next on my list. What you're about to do is the journey of a lifetime. You'd better share it with us whenever you get a chance. Send us a pic of your loaded bike before you set out, ok? In fact, send us lots of pics.

And you may want to rest those muscles as much as possible. You're going to need the glycogen for the mountains. Just spin, spin, spin through them.

Peace,
Kathy