For only the second time this trip I actually got up early and headed out with overcast sky’s and cool temps. Destination Elensburg home of Central Washington University. The largest town on the Palouse to Cascade trail it beckons with the promise of food, hotel, and a bike shop. It felt like a waste to use a day like today to only get 29 miles but I need to retool for a longer slog through eastern Washington.
There is what looks to be a great little 9 hole golf course outside of town and I had originally planned on playing it. But I have to make the most of this day so a rode past it and headed into the center of town.
My rear tire has been a problem since day three when it suffered a significant puncture/gash that I have not been able to solve. I tried a boot (patch on the inside of the tire), superglue, and the old dollar bill as a boot in it. Every time something finds its way into the tear and pops the tube. Today we are getting rid of this tire and all of its bad MOJO! If I was at home I would likely just leave it on and ride it for some time longer but out here it is too much to chance.
I rolled up to Recycled Bicycles in downtown and inquired about a tire. They had one that roughly matched my needs and I asked if they could mount it tubeless for me. They were busy but understood my situation and hoisted it on the stand immediately. The guys were great and the shop is well appointed. I would highly recommend stopping in if you find yourself in Elensburg in the future.
With the bike sorted and a lunch at the Mexican place around the corner I made my way to the grocery store to resupply. Then the hotel let me check in early. Another shower and then to the barber shop. It is too hot for this hippy hair! The rest of the day was spent reworking the plan to complete the Palouse to Cascade trail and get to Idaho. Unfortunately it looks like with the revised morning only riding I will be plugging along for the next 6 days. The towns lay out awkwardly forcing short days with one longer one that I cannot seem to find a way to avoid.
I hope this works and more importantly I hope this heat wave breaks.
One response to “Day – 11 Baby needs a new pair of shoes AKA Reset Again”
Thank you for writing this blog to capture your trip and experience! It feels like I’m reading a book that takes the reader along on your adventure. I find myself smiling with the triumphs, feeling sad with the setbacks, and then ready to go again with the resets. The energy of each of them is felt in your written words. You share your experiences with such authenticity that I’m hooked to read each update. I think you should add “storyteller” to your skills on your resume.