In one of the books I have been reading about touring, the author says NEVER stare at where you DON'T want to go. The reason is that IS exactly where you do go. Had that happen this morning. Been on the Trinity Trails for 24 km when I was being passed. I saw the rider in my mirror. Knew he was there. I started staring at the tall grass along the sidewalk. Thought several times, I should not go there. Stay a foot or two away. Keep off the grass. As I rode directly into the grass and lost control. Scraped my knee. And a few fingers. But all is well. Got a bruise and a strawberry on the right knee. I can ride. I made my 160 km this week.
I have been looking at panniers this week. Do I need two on the back wheel? Do I need four? Two on each wheel. Or what about a trailer. At first, I dismissed the trailer as flat crazy. The more I read, the more I wonder if a trailer would not be good. http://bicycletouringshop.com/panniersvstrailers.php I still believe that a trailer would be too much to drag to Belgium. The idea does intrigue me. Any advice would be appreciated.
I have found the Toe in the water trip from England to Brussels fascinating. http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=RrzKj&page_id=90962&v=66
This is the level of touring I would hope for. Not too hard. Stop for a beer when the mood hits. They went a lot faster than I would like, but all else seemed spot on for me. If you get a chance, look at this journal as well as others on crazybuyonabike.com.
And finally, I noticed today that I have ridden more that 1,000 miles on this bike. So before I take off for Belgium, I have a chance of putting another 4,000 miles on that bike. That is probably more than I will put on my car.
Good riding,
Larry Kemp
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