Finishing touches 6.14.02
 

Finally I got the right kind of Aerobars on my bike. I had to return 2 pairs before I finally got these. Then I had to go to Home Depot and get some metal to rig up something to fatten up my handlebar where the Aerobars fasten on because they are made for thicker bars. I tried wrapping tube and even an old cut up tire but both failed as the rubber gave too much and made the Aerobars easy to move even when tightened down all the way. I needed metal. So I found some metal tube sections that are sold for something completely different. Sawed off some bits with a hack saw, and fit them around the handlebars before trying one last time to fasten the Aerobars. Viola! It worked. I was psyched. Also, this model which fastens the Aerobars on the top of the handlebars instead of the bottom worked better with my handlebar bag. So, big smile on my face today.
I got some grease to keep all my parts lubed up nice when I put back together my bike in Alaska. I also got some zip ties for keeping wires in order and miscellaneous uses. Those things come in handy!
Like Catfish said, time is flying by quick. Suprisingly, my stress level is staying low, which is cool. I feel like I am getting things together. Maybe when I finally sit down and inventory my stuff, I'll start realizing what I am forgetting and start getting nervous.
My prediction so far is that I'll be a little heavily loaded for the trip, but I can always drop stuff or send it back home if I need to.
My biggest worry is that I'll forget something important, or think of something I wish I had. I have my hopes that I can depend on the folks at home to send me anything I forget if its that important.
I think my bike is in good enough condition to make those first 240 or so miles to civilization without any major problems I can't fix myself. I am eager to get on the road and get started so I can finally tell myself "Holy sh*t I'm really doing this" as well as begin to test my mental and physical.

For now, I am just savoring my last few days of cushy bed, home cooking and air conditioning.

Peace and thanks for reading!

Dave

Pic: Aerobars on! After so much hassle and sweat. Sheesh, I'm going to have to take ALL this apart soon!

Dave Nice setup however it's scary to think you may be going even faster now.You probably got over most of your jitters prior to the Fl. tour I know I had a few anyway.Once you get started I bet you will become less gear focused and more focused on important things like the next meal ,lodging and the current days route and sights which knowing your resourcefulness should not be a problem.I truely wish I was going along on this trip (at least through Baja California).Maybe in a few years I will be in a position to do a trip like this.At least if the june Fl. rains ever stop maybe Mike and I can organize a Keys trip.Best of luck and enjoy yourself. Carl

Yea, these rains won't quit! Thanks for the encouragement. I agree with you that my focuses will change as the trip goes along. Once I'm out there, I just have to work with what I got and maybe unload a few things I don't need. I can't wait to enjoy the scenery.
Good luck on your future tours. Be safe on that Keys trip when it happens. There are lots of accidents on that long stretch of road and many people eager to pass one another.

Dave