The Greater San Fransisco Area

Continuing my quest to travel the world.

It has been my quest to cycle around the world for a very long time, although I have ticked off 16 countries to date, I still haven't achieved the ultimate goal of cycling the world. I cannot wait any longer for the conditions to be perfect, age is catching up with me, so it is now or never.

picture drawn by Jim my Step - Father on our trip across Australia

picture drawn by Jim my Step - Father on our trip across Australia
After our trip to Vietnam in 2012.

Saturday 27 February 2016

Trans Am pair.

 latest update. Mini tour number three completed. What went well? I accomplished my goal of 1000 kms in 6 days in a range of conditions from non stop rain to very hot to strong headwind and cross winds. What didn't go so well was breaking in a new saddle that caused saddle sores, but that is one of the reasons for training - discovering potential problems and sorting them.
I really enjoyed the Kiakora coastline, and the views of the mountains and lakes in the central high country. I also enjoyed the drive up the stunning west coast on my trip back home to Nelson. We live in such a lovely part of the world.
After Niel met me at the 1000 km mark, we then we swapped - I drove home and Niel got on his bike. He didn't have a good time and as a consequence we have made the decision to enter the Trans Am as a pair. We ride well together - as we have been riding around the world together for 30 years, and know exactly each others strengths and weaknesses.
Riding together as a pair has advantages and disadvantages but we still ride the whole distance each.
The advantages is that we can take turns breaking the wind in the front and can share some of the load and consequently lighten our loads just a fraction.
The disadvantages are that you don't get so much kudos for finishing, and there is the possibility that one or other of you may get frustrated with the other at some times.
However it should be more enjoyable having someone to talk to and share the experience with.
This will be my last blog post, I will be changing to a 'like page' on Facebook. It is much easier for me to use and to add photos to. I invite you to join my like page when I set it up. I know not everyone uses Facebook, but I had to make the decision for ease of use.
I hope you will enjoy reading Vespa Chick - diary of a word cyclist.