Sorry for this slightly nondescript photo but the first major break on my tour is fixed thanks to the remarkable metalworking skills of Tony (originally of Sevenoaks). By a remarkable stroke of fortune I was put in touch with Tony through his wife, Sarah, and the brown part of the pannier rack shows his excellent fix that means my tour can continue stress-free.
Just as lucky but more unexpected, Tony and Sarah invited. me in for the night, fed and watered me and even gave me a packed lunch to see me on my way (if you're reading this Sarah, the bagel was delicious!). Great to get an insight into the joys and pains of rural Montana life and I was particularly glad to be able to sit out a morning of atrocious rain and cold.
The less glamorous side of cycle touring; sometimes you just end the day... nowhere. So you end up pitching by the roadside. 
Other days you are rewarded with incredible camps like this one at Clearwater Lake. It was a slog to get here, 72 miles of undulating forestry roads, but for the secluded setting and evening swim, worth it.
My only company here were the local loons which put on the most remarkable performance during the night - quivering laughs, unearthly wails - once heard, never forgotten.
Hi Daniel, We enjoyed your visit and hope your repair is holding up. We'll be reading your blog with interest! Stay Safe, Sarah & Tony - Whitefish, MT
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah and Tony, so far, so good, the pannier rack is holding up well. I've strapped the pannier to it to reduce rattling and am, once again, throwing the bike down the descents as quickly as I safely can! In stark contrast to the weather I had at your place, it's really hot and dry here (currently in Butte) so am trying to sit out the middle of the days and ride in the mornings and evenings. Thanks again for helping me stay on the road! Daniel
ReplyDelete