2009 Bike Trip

Today was not a ride that Venture and I would choose under normal circumstances. Sub-40 degree temps with nasty sky's conspired to make riding conditions poor. Frost on the tank during the morning pack was as a first for the Venture. I pulled everything warm from the bag and hoped for the best. The prospects for covering distance seemed bleak during the morning as frequent stops were required to thaw out the extremities. We covered 680K in the end, mainly due to the lack of accommodation west of Duluth. Followed Hwy 28 to 2 with the bulk of the day in rain, hail, lightning and the ever present numbing cold. Fortunately we broke out of the rain a couple of times and we took full advantage by hanging legs out on the highway pegs to dry wet feet and direct the wind into our soaked riding gear. Surprising how quick the wind drys a rider and brings new comfort to the ride. Fortunately the roads were straight in the norm and light with traffic so focus was not an issue. Staying in Grand Rapids tonight treating ourselves to a semi upscale motel. The hot tub on site is a definite plus. Neil