18 July 2010
16 May 2010
New York
Friday 14th May 2010
Edison to New York (via OCC)
195 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 14,891
The last day on the bike today. We headed up past New York to visit Orange County Choppers. The ride up there started off dry but after about an hour it started to rain heavily. After our visit to OCC it was dry again and the ride back down to Newark was easy. We only got a little lost and with the help of a friendly cop we soon found our way to the shippers. The bikes will remain there until the rest of the group arrives.
So it’s off to the bright lights of New York for the weekend!
Edison to New York (via OCC)
195 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 14,891
The last day on the bike today. We headed up past New York to visit Orange County Choppers. The ride up there started off dry but after about an hour it started to rain heavily. After our visit to OCC it was dry again and the ride back down to Newark was easy. We only got a little lost and with the help of a friendly cop we soon found our way to the shippers. The bikes will remain there until the rest of the group arrives.
So it’s off to the bright lights of New York for the weekend!
14 May 2010
Mexico and USA
Thursday 13th May 2010
Rocky Mount to Edison (near New York)
441 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 14,696
Another early start today as we want to get the miles done for an easy day tomorrow. The day started a little wet but the forecast said it would clear later. It’s a lot cooler today, about 15 degrees and only a small amount of moisture in the air. After our first fuel and coffee stop the next destination was Washington DC for a cuppa with Mr President. Unfortunately we couldn’t get very close to his house so no cuppa! We saw a few sights then headed off in the direction of New York. We drove on the New Jersey Turnpike to avoid Philadelphia and we made good progress. The day ended at 6.30pm near Newark (the final destination for the bikes).
Tomorrow we’re going to visit Orange County Choppers which is just north of NY.
Wednesday 12th May 2010
Auburn to Rocky Mount
566 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 14,255
We had an early start this morning, after our breakfast at The Waffle House we were on the road for 7am. Breakfast consisted of eggs, toast and grit, yes grit is actually food. Apparently it’s a southern thing, it looked like watery semolina and tasted of cardboard.
The interstate roads here are excellent, good quality, well sign posted and no traffic jams yet. But they are incredibly boring! Lunch was at a “Wendy’s”, similar to Wimpy. I have felt tired all day, at times struggling to keep my eyes open.
We stopped at about 5.30pm, accommodation is easy to find as it is sign posted at the exits on the interstates. A Days Inn tonight.
Tuesday 11th May 2010
New Orleans to Auburn
350 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 13,689
A late start today because we were waiting for the bikes to be serviced (and we went out on the town last night). Our destination was Atlanta about 450 miles away. Because of the late start and feeling rather tired, not hung over just tired, we only managed 350 miles which got us to a place called Auburn. Martins’ bike has developed a problem with his headlight, the fuse has blown and we’ve not had any time to research why, so we couldn’t ride in the dark.
Monday 10th May 2010
Houston to New Orleans
362 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 13,339
We started from the right side of Houston as we passed through it yesterday. Easy riding again on these long, straight sign posted roads. Our first port of call in New Orleans was Chuck House Motor Sports to get our bikes serviced. We found the place quite easily after only a few wrong turns. We had a good chat with Chuck and agreed that just an oil and filter change would get us to New York. I also had my front tyre changed. We left the bikes with him for us to pick up the next day.
We stopped at a Holiday Inn Express right in the centre of New Orleans. After a short shopping trip for some new clothes we hit the town. One of the main tourist streets is Bourbon Street, full of shops, bars, restaurants and strip joints. After a meal we went to a few bars on Bourbon Street. The first was playing the most depressing jazz music I’ve ever heard so we soon left that one. The second was more lively with a band playing. The last one we went in had a mechanical bull (see below) which was fun. We were respectably back in the hotel just after midnight.
Sunday 9th May 2010
Brownsville to Houston
362 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 12,977
We didn’t start too early today due to the late night last night. Good progress was made on the road, motorways all the way. We ended up riding into the middle of Houston which was a bit of a concern. After asking a cop for directions we were soon on the right road. We stopped in a Comfort Inn on the outskirts of Houston.
Saturday 8th May 2010
Veracruz to Brownsville (USA)
640 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 12,615
We left early just after 6am. The roads are a pain where they go through built up areas because there are speed humps which you really do have to slow down for. We really wanted to get into the USA today so we pushed our selves hard to get to the border. In the afternoon the roads improved so we didn’t have to keep slowing down.
We eventually got to the border at Matamoros at about 8.30pm. We went over the bridge and started the process of getting into the USA. Things didn’t quite go to plan. We hadn’t got the bikes stamped out of Mexico so we had to go back; luckily it was only the other side of the bridge. After being pissed about by the short fat jobs worth in the American customs we were in! We went into town and got the first hotel we could find.
Friday 7th May 2010
Salina Cruz to Veracruz
320 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,975
The first day of leaving the group. After getting in very late last night some people had already left in the morning before we got up so we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to many people. It was quite sad to leave the group after nearly 8 weeks. It was a good ride today although very hot again. We got into Veracruz and started the search for a motorbike shop for Martin to get new tyres. We found a few but none of them had the right size. Mission aborted, and the decision was made that his tyres would get him to New York.
Thursday 6th May 2010
Quezaltenango to Salina Cruz (Mexico)
370 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,655
Border crossing day. The Mexican border was a nightmare, we had to get all our documents copied and then wait hours for them to process the paperwork. We didn’t leave the border until gone 5pm. With nearly 300 miles to go it was going to be a late night. I still have a problem with my headlight and while fiddling with it I made it worse. At a petrol stop with a lot of sweating and swearing I managed to botch it so that I could see the road in the dark.
We reached the hotel at about midnight. This was the last day of riding with the group.
Wednesday 5th may 2010
Copan Ruinas to Quezaltenango (Guatemala)
275 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,285
At the time of writing this (1 week later) I have no recollection of what happened today.
After allot of careful consideration about the trip and the poor organisation of it, I have decided to separate from the group. Tomorrow Martin and I will be going on a different route to New York. Mr Sanders’ plan is to get to Alaska at any cost. The daily mileages will be very high and the routes likely to be extremely boring. Enough is enough! There are other reasons which I won’t go into here.
I’m looking forward to seeing my family who I’ve missed very much.
Rocky Mount to Edison (near New York)
441 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 14,696
Another early start today as we want to get the miles done for an easy day tomorrow. The day started a little wet but the forecast said it would clear later. It’s a lot cooler today, about 15 degrees and only a small amount of moisture in the air. After our first fuel and coffee stop the next destination was Washington DC for a cuppa with Mr President. Unfortunately we couldn’t get very close to his house so no cuppa! We saw a few sights then headed off in the direction of New York. We drove on the New Jersey Turnpike to avoid Philadelphia and we made good progress. The day ended at 6.30pm near Newark (the final destination for the bikes).
Wednesday 12th May 2010
Auburn to Rocky Mount
566 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 14,255
We had an early start this morning, after our breakfast at The Waffle House we were on the road for 7am. Breakfast consisted of eggs, toast and grit, yes grit is actually food. Apparently it’s a southern thing, it looked like watery semolina and tasted of cardboard.
The interstate roads here are excellent, good quality, well sign posted and no traffic jams yet. But they are incredibly boring! Lunch was at a “Wendy’s”, similar to Wimpy. I have felt tired all day, at times struggling to keep my eyes open.
We stopped at about 5.30pm, accommodation is easy to find as it is sign posted at the exits on the interstates. A Days Inn tonight.
Tuesday 11th May 2010
New Orleans to Auburn
350 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 13,689
A late start today because we were waiting for the bikes to be serviced (and we went out on the town last night). Our destination was Atlanta about 450 miles away. Because of the late start and feeling rather tired, not hung over just tired, we only managed 350 miles which got us to a place called Auburn. Martins’ bike has developed a problem with his headlight, the fuse has blown and we’ve not had any time to research why, so we couldn’t ride in the dark.
Monday 10th May 2010
Houston to New Orleans
362 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 13,339
We started from the right side of Houston as we passed through it yesterday. Easy riding again on these long, straight sign posted roads. Our first port of call in New Orleans was Chuck House Motor Sports to get our bikes serviced. We found the place quite easily after only a few wrong turns. We had a good chat with Chuck and agreed that just an oil and filter change would get us to New York. I also had my front tyre changed. We left the bikes with him for us to pick up the next day.
Sunday 9th May 2010
Brownsville to Houston
362 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 12,977
We didn’t start too early today due to the late night last night. Good progress was made on the road, motorways all the way. We ended up riding into the middle of Houston which was a bit of a concern. After asking a cop for directions we were soon on the right road. We stopped in a Comfort Inn on the outskirts of Houston.
Saturday 8th May 2010
Veracruz to Brownsville (USA)
640 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 12,615
We left early just after 6am. The roads are a pain where they go through built up areas because there are speed humps which you really do have to slow down for. We really wanted to get into the USA today so we pushed our selves hard to get to the border. In the afternoon the roads improved so we didn’t have to keep slowing down.
We eventually got to the border at Matamoros at about 8.30pm. We went over the bridge and started the process of getting into the USA. Things didn’t quite go to plan. We hadn’t got the bikes stamped out of Mexico so we had to go back; luckily it was only the other side of the bridge. After being pissed about by the short fat jobs worth in the American customs we were in! We went into town and got the first hotel we could find.
Friday 7th May 2010
Salina Cruz to Veracruz
320 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,975
The first day of leaving the group. After getting in very late last night some people had already left in the morning before we got up so we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to many people. It was quite sad to leave the group after nearly 8 weeks. It was a good ride today although very hot again. We got into Veracruz and started the search for a motorbike shop for Martin to get new tyres. We found a few but none of them had the right size. Mission aborted, and the decision was made that his tyres would get him to New York.
Thursday 6th May 2010
Quezaltenango to Salina Cruz (Mexico)
370 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,655
Border crossing day. The Mexican border was a nightmare, we had to get all our documents copied and then wait hours for them to process the paperwork. We didn’t leave the border until gone 5pm. With nearly 300 miles to go it was going to be a late night. I still have a problem with my headlight and while fiddling with it I made it worse. At a petrol stop with a lot of sweating and swearing I managed to botch it so that I could see the road in the dark.
We reached the hotel at about midnight. This was the last day of riding with the group.
Wednesday 5th may 2010
Copan Ruinas to Quezaltenango (Guatemala)
275 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,285
At the time of writing this (1 week later) I have no recollection of what happened today.
After allot of careful consideration about the trip and the poor organisation of it, I have decided to separate from the group. Tomorrow Martin and I will be going on a different route to New York. Mr Sanders’ plan is to get to Alaska at any cost. The daily mileages will be very high and the routes likely to be extremely boring. Enough is enough! There are other reasons which I won’t go into here.
I’m looking forward to seeing my family who I’ve missed very much.
05 May 2010
Honduras
Tuesday 4th May 2010
Choluteca to Copan Ruinas
344 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,010
Another hot and humid day, the temperature peaked at 39.5 degrees! The roads were quite good but there are allot of small towns to go through which slows thing up. After refuelling we were just about to set off when Nigel noticed his rear tyre was flat. This delayed us for about an hour or so. We got a little lost in one of the towns but were soon on the right road. It was quite slow progress today, allot of winding roads and villages to go through.
Jason had a problem with his bike; whilst using his side stand to break the bead on Nigel’s tyre it bent slightly making his bike unstable on the side stand. At the next fuel stop his stand snapped and the bike fell over! That was not the only thing to snap; Martin was not impressed because Nigel and I had stopped without signalling to Martin or Jason. We were all tired and hot with still 60 miles to go to the hotel. We eventually arrived at 6pm. Copan Ruinas is a lovely little town with cobbled streets and a town square. Off to the border with Guatemala tomorrow for more fun and games.
Choluteca to Copan Ruinas
344 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 11,010
Another hot and humid day, the temperature peaked at 39.5 degrees! The roads were quite good but there are allot of small towns to go through which slows thing up. After refuelling we were just about to set off when Nigel noticed his rear tyre was flat. This delayed us for about an hour or so. We got a little lost in one of the towns but were soon on the right road. It was quite slow progress today, allot of winding roads and villages to go through.
Jason had a problem with his bike; whilst using his side stand to break the bead on Nigel’s tyre it bent slightly making his bike unstable on the side stand. At the next fuel stop his stand snapped and the bike fell over! That was not the only thing to snap; Martin was not impressed because Nigel and I had stopped without signalling to Martin or Jason. We were all tired and hot with still 60 miles to go to the hotel. We eventually arrived at 6pm. Copan Ruinas is a lovely little town with cobbled streets and a town square. Off to the border with Guatemala tomorrow for more fun and games.
04 May 2010
Central America
Monday 3rd May 2010
Granada to Choluteca (Honduras)
181 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 10,666
This morning did not start well; I woke up too early and then needed the loo every 20 minutes. It was very humid and about 28 degrees at 8am. After six trips to the toilet I took an Imodium and hoped for the best. Martin and I left the hotel at 8.45am. I was supposed to wait for sanders to turn up with the tyres because he is having trouble getting through customs with them without paying import tax. It specifies in the contract that the spare tyres will be carried in the support vehicle, so it’s his problem. I carried my spare rear tyre from Buenas Aires to Lima, I’ve done my bit.
The first part of the journey went well until I was stopped by the law; luckily all they wanted to see was my passport and licence. I think I got away lightly especially when Nigel got stung for $150 the other day. Riding around the capital city of Managua was quite straight forward; however, we appeared to take a different route to most other people. The route we took started ok but the road quality deteriorated after a few miles. There were allot of potholes which were difficult to negotiate at more than 30mph. Parts of the road were missing all together. The road improved after about twenty miles. We made good progress to the border and stopped for lunch just before it.
The border was unusually quiet and with the help of a fixer we were on our way in about an hour. The hotel was only about 50km’s away and the ride was easy. The temperature was 38 degrees so the air conditioned room and swimming pool at the hotel were a bonus.
Sunday 2nd May 2010
San Isidro to Granada (Nicaragua)
308 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 10,485
The weather first thing looked grey; I wasn’t sure if it would rain or not so I decided to put my waterproof linings in jest in case. We set off at 7.30am and by then the weather looked brighter. The road went up into the mountains and the temperature dropped from the mid twenties to 12 degrees. After descending the mountain and getting a little lost in San Jose I was absolutely boiling. We stopped for fuel and a snack and to remove my waterproofs.
The roads in Costa Rica are generally good quality but the speed limits are incredibly slow and the police are everywhere with speed guns. This makes for a very slow and boring ride.
We eventually reached the border at 3pm. By this time it was 36 degrees and very humid. The getting out of Costa Rica took a while due to due to the queues and the walk to the separate offices. Another fumigation process and then we started the process of getting into Nicaragua. Again we were helped by a fixer. It takes a long time because of the bike. There are charges for insurance, a tourist tax and other charges just because they can. With the paperwork complete and the fixer paid we were free to go. By this time it was getting dark and we still had 60 miles to go. I only had about 25 miles left in the tank so a petrol station was needed. We were riding through countryside with no sign of fuel. With 4 miles left in the tank we came to a town with fuel. Then disaster struck, I was adjusting my headlight angle and the adjuster fell out and now my light is pointing at the stars. The last 40 miles were very difficult with little visibility, some wet roads and the threat of a downpour. Luckily we arrived at the hotel minutes before the rain started. It’s been a very long and tiring day!
Saturday 1st May 2010
Santiago to San Isidro de el General
275 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 10,177
Another border crossing today, Panama into Costa Rica. We left the hotel at 7am, a little later than planned. The ride to the border crossing was straight forward. The first part of the process was to get the bike fumigated (chemical spray) and to get the certificate to prove it. Leaving Panama was simple enough. The entry process into Costa Rica was aided by a fixer who led us through the red tape. Forms to be filled in, photocopies taken and a long wait in a queue for it all to be processed. The fixer was paid $5 dollars for his services and we were on our way.
A few miles down the road we stopped for lunch at what looked similar to a KFC. After lunch we proceeded on the 140 mile journey to the Hotel Diamante Real at San Isidro. The ride started off dry but after a few miles the rain started. Without any waterproofs on I hoped it would only be showers. It was not to be, after a few minutes it pissed it down! I had to stop at a small bus shelter to put on my waterproof over suit, a £20 special from Lidl. Lesson learnt – it leaks. We drove through patches of very heavy rain with my visor and specs steaming up making it difficult to see. Peering over the top of my glasses made it a little better.
Nigel, Martin and I found the hotel quite easily, a nice place with good rooms. After sorting out our wet gear we went out for refreshments. I went for a beer in a local bar with Barry, Patrick and Ilene. The search for food was a little more difficult. There didn’t seem to be many places open. We found a local place and were joined by Steve and Nadine. The restaurant didn’t have a menu as the chef/owner changes it so often he doesn’t bother printing one. Once we had been told what was on offer we made our order, I decided on the Conger Eel! Very nice it was too.
Granada to Choluteca (Honduras)
181 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 10,666
This morning did not start well; I woke up too early and then needed the loo every 20 minutes. It was very humid and about 28 degrees at 8am. After six trips to the toilet I took an Imodium and hoped for the best. Martin and I left the hotel at 8.45am. I was supposed to wait for sanders to turn up with the tyres because he is having trouble getting through customs with them without paying import tax. It specifies in the contract that the spare tyres will be carried in the support vehicle, so it’s his problem. I carried my spare rear tyre from Buenas Aires to Lima, I’ve done my bit.
The first part of the journey went well until I was stopped by the law; luckily all they wanted to see was my passport and licence. I think I got away lightly especially when Nigel got stung for $150 the other day. Riding around the capital city of Managua was quite straight forward; however, we appeared to take a different route to most other people. The route we took started ok but the road quality deteriorated after a few miles. There were allot of potholes which were difficult to negotiate at more than 30mph. Parts of the road were missing all together. The road improved after about twenty miles. We made good progress to the border and stopped for lunch just before it.
The border was unusually quiet and with the help of a fixer we were on our way in about an hour. The hotel was only about 50km’s away and the ride was easy. The temperature was 38 degrees so the air conditioned room and swimming pool at the hotel were a bonus.
Sunday 2nd May 2010
San Isidro to Granada (Nicaragua)
308 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 10,485
The weather first thing looked grey; I wasn’t sure if it would rain or not so I decided to put my waterproof linings in jest in case. We set off at 7.30am and by then the weather looked brighter. The road went up into the mountains and the temperature dropped from the mid twenties to 12 degrees. After descending the mountain and getting a little lost in San Jose I was absolutely boiling. We stopped for fuel and a snack and to remove my waterproofs.
The roads in Costa Rica are generally good quality but the speed limits are incredibly slow and the police are everywhere with speed guns. This makes for a very slow and boring ride.
We eventually reached the border at 3pm. By this time it was 36 degrees and very humid. The getting out of Costa Rica took a while due to due to the queues and the walk to the separate offices. Another fumigation process and then we started the process of getting into Nicaragua. Again we were helped by a fixer. It takes a long time because of the bike. There are charges for insurance, a tourist tax and other charges just because they can. With the paperwork complete and the fixer paid we were free to go. By this time it was getting dark and we still had 60 miles to go. I only had about 25 miles left in the tank so a petrol station was needed. We were riding through countryside with no sign of fuel. With 4 miles left in the tank we came to a town with fuel. Then disaster struck, I was adjusting my headlight angle and the adjuster fell out and now my light is pointing at the stars. The last 40 miles were very difficult with little visibility, some wet roads and the threat of a downpour. Luckily we arrived at the hotel minutes before the rain started. It’s been a very long and tiring day!
Saturday 1st May 2010
Santiago to San Isidro de el General
275 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 10,177
Another border crossing today, Panama into Costa Rica. We left the hotel at 7am, a little later than planned. The ride to the border crossing was straight forward. The first part of the process was to get the bike fumigated (chemical spray) and to get the certificate to prove it. Leaving Panama was simple enough. The entry process into Costa Rica was aided by a fixer who led us through the red tape. Forms to be filled in, photocopies taken and a long wait in a queue for it all to be processed. The fixer was paid $5 dollars for his services and we were on our way.
A few miles down the road we stopped for lunch at what looked similar to a KFC. After lunch we proceeded on the 140 mile journey to the Hotel Diamante Real at San Isidro. The ride started off dry but after a few miles the rain started. Without any waterproofs on I hoped it would only be showers. It was not to be, after a few minutes it pissed it down! I had to stop at a small bus shelter to put on my waterproof over suit, a £20 special from Lidl. Lesson learnt – it leaks. We drove through patches of very heavy rain with my visor and specs steaming up making it difficult to see. Peering over the top of my glasses made it a little better.
Nigel, Martin and I found the hotel quite easily, a nice place with good rooms. After sorting out our wet gear we went out for refreshments. I went for a beer in a local bar with Barry, Patrick and Ilene. The search for food was a little more difficult. There didn’t seem to be many places open. We found a local place and were joined by Steve and Nadine. The restaurant didn’t have a menu as the chef/owner changes it so often he doesn’t bother printing one. Once we had been told what was on offer we made our order, I decided on the Conger Eel! Very nice it was too.
01 May 2010
Santiago, Panama
Friday 30th April 2010
Panama to Santiago
161 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 9902
The day started very hot and humid, the temperature when we left at 9am was 29 degrees. We had a shower of rain before we left but luckily it stopped. We are in this part of the world just before the rainy season so hopefully we won’t get too wet. I decided not to wear the waterproofs as I would probably get wetter with sweat. Nigel, Martin, Brian, Suzanne and I left before the main group who were getting a taxi to lead them out of the city. Because we didn’t have much of a clue where we were going we soon got lost. After asking a few people we soon found our way to the main road out.
The road was dual carriageway most of the way so it was quite an easy ride apart from the heat which peaked at 36 degrees and combining this with the humidity made a bit uncomfortable. A little way from the town near where we were stopping Brian and I got stopped at a police road block. With only knowing a few words of Spanish and the officer not speaking any English the conversation was a bit of a struggle. We gathered that he wanted us to slow down although I hadn’t been over 120 km/h and stop weaving in and out of the traffic. After producing my documents and a sort of conversation he let us go.
After fuelling up a few miles later we were at Hotel Vistalago, a few minutes’ drive past Santiago (Panama). The hotel is modern and clean with a good shower and aircon in the room. As usual I’m sharing a room with Martin. The afternoon was spent relaxing in the pool and having a few beers. This is the life!
Panama to Santiago
161 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 9902
The day started very hot and humid, the temperature when we left at 9am was 29 degrees. We had a shower of rain before we left but luckily it stopped. We are in this part of the world just before the rainy season so hopefully we won’t get too wet. I decided not to wear the waterproofs as I would probably get wetter with sweat. Nigel, Martin, Brian, Suzanne and I left before the main group who were getting a taxi to lead them out of the city. Because we didn’t have much of a clue where we were going we soon got lost. After asking a few people we soon found our way to the main road out.
The road was dual carriageway most of the way so it was quite an easy ride apart from the heat which peaked at 36 degrees and combining this with the humidity made a bit uncomfortable. A little way from the town near where we were stopping Brian and I got stopped at a police road block. With only knowing a few words of Spanish and the officer not speaking any English the conversation was a bit of a struggle. We gathered that he wanted us to slow down although I hadn’t been over 120 km/h and stop weaving in and out of the traffic. After producing my documents and a sort of conversation he let us go.
After fuelling up a few miles later we were at Hotel Vistalago, a few minutes’ drive past Santiago (Panama). The hotel is modern and clean with a good shower and aircon in the room. As usual I’m sharing a room with Martin. The afternoon was spent relaxing in the pool and having a few beers. This is the life!
30 April 2010
Panama
Thursday 29th April 2010
Panama
21 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 9742
A trip to the airport this morning to collect the bikes, not that simple though. Because there are 18 bikes the process takes forever. The customs people seem to be unable to cope with a large group. Things weren’t helped by the heat and humidity here, so needless to say a few of our group were a little hot under the collar. We must have spent about 6hrs at the cargo terminal before the paperwork was complete and we were free to go. I can’t help thinking that a little bit of pre planning would have saved some time. But it’s no surprise as very little seems to have been organised on the trip so far.
After returning to the hotel and parking our bikes in the foyer we had just enough time to go to the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal. What a fantastic site to see the massive ship make their way slowly through the locks.
Panama City like all cites has variety of different areas. We were told not to turn left out of the hotel as the area is too dangerous! We went out in the evening to one of the more posh areas for a meal at a Mexican restaurant.
Tomorrow we start to make our way through Panama on our way to Costa Rica.
Panama
21 Miles
Total PanAm Miles 9742
A trip to the airport this morning to collect the bikes, not that simple though. Because there are 18 bikes the process takes forever. The customs people seem to be unable to cope with a large group. Things weren’t helped by the heat and humidity here, so needless to say a few of our group were a little hot under the collar. We must have spent about 6hrs at the cargo terminal before the paperwork was complete and we were free to go. I can’t help thinking that a little bit of pre planning would have saved some time. But it’s no surprise as very little seems to have been organised on the trip so far.
After returning to the hotel and parking our bikes in the foyer we had just enough time to go to the Miraflores Locks on the Panama Canal. What a fantastic site to see the massive ship make their way slowly through the locks.
Panama City like all cites has variety of different areas. We were told not to turn left out of the hotel as the area is too dangerous! We went out in the evening to one of the more posh areas for a meal at a Mexican restaurant.
Tomorrow we start to make our way through Panama on our way to Costa Rica.
29 April 2010
Colombia
Wednesday 28th April 2010
Bogotá Airport
0 Miles
I woke up this morning feeling a little under the weather; it must have been something I ate. It’s 3pm and I’m waiting in Bogota airport for the flight to Panama at 6pm. The bikes should already be on their way. We will have two nights in Panama, so hopefully we will see the famous canal.
Tuesday 27th April 2010
Bogota
0 Miles
We arrived at the cargo terminal at 8am sharp to start the customs procedure. We were not amused that Nick and Caroline didn’t bother getting there till nearly 9am. Thing didn’t move very quickly at all. Paperwork was required for each bike and had to completed across the road at another office. This was taking too long so they decided to bring the paperwork back over to where the bikes were. The last part of the proceeding was a police inspection of the bikes which involved opening all our bags for the sniffer dog to inspect. We eventually left the airport at 3.30pm.
Shortly after arriving back at the hovel we went out for a few drinks and food. I think I might have had one too many.
Monday 26th April 2010
Ibague to Bogota
130 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9720
Ibague – shit hole, like so many of the towns we’ve stopped in. The hotel was ok but in a grim part of town. We left at 8 o’clock in the morning in the pouring rain and slowly made our way to Bogota. Luckily the weather cleared up during the morning. We arrived at Bogota at lunchtime. Another grim looking city. The traffic here is chaos, making it difficult to make progress and stay in a group. We were guided part of the way by a doctors car with flashing lights, not that it helped us much. With chaotic traffic and allot of road works it took ages to find the correct area of the airport. Eventually we found it and soon we were preparing our bikes for air freight.
With the first part of the paperwork sorted we waited to put our bikes in the loading bay, this involved riding up a wooden ramp which looked a bit tricky. Jason road quite a few of the bikes up the ramp because some people were not confident in their ability to do it themselves. Needless to say I rode my own bike up the ramp. The bikes were all weighed, mine weighed 300kg!
The bikes are almost sorted; we have to return to the airport cargo terminal in the morning for the customs inspection. We took a taxi to the hotel, when I say hotel I mean grotty dump. We might look for somewhere better tomorrow. I complained to Caroline about it and she said it looked nice on the internet – beware of the internet!
Bogotá Airport
0 Miles
I woke up this morning feeling a little under the weather; it must have been something I ate. It’s 3pm and I’m waiting in Bogota airport for the flight to Panama at 6pm. The bikes should already be on their way. We will have two nights in Panama, so hopefully we will see the famous canal.
Tuesday 27th April 2010
Bogota
0 Miles
We arrived at the cargo terminal at 8am sharp to start the customs procedure. We were not amused that Nick and Caroline didn’t bother getting there till nearly 9am. Thing didn’t move very quickly at all. Paperwork was required for each bike and had to completed across the road at another office. This was taking too long so they decided to bring the paperwork back over to where the bikes were. The last part of the proceeding was a police inspection of the bikes which involved opening all our bags for the sniffer dog to inspect. We eventually left the airport at 3.30pm.
Shortly after arriving back at the hovel we went out for a few drinks and food. I think I might have had one too many.
Monday 26th April 2010
Ibague to Bogota
130 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9720
Ibague – shit hole, like so many of the towns we’ve stopped in. The hotel was ok but in a grim part of town. We left at 8 o’clock in the morning in the pouring rain and slowly made our way to Bogota. Luckily the weather cleared up during the morning. We arrived at Bogota at lunchtime. Another grim looking city. The traffic here is chaos, making it difficult to make progress and stay in a group. We were guided part of the way by a doctors car with flashing lights, not that it helped us much. With chaotic traffic and allot of road works it took ages to find the correct area of the airport. Eventually we found it and soon we were preparing our bikes for air freight.
With the first part of the paperwork sorted we waited to put our bikes in the loading bay, this involved riding up a wooden ramp which looked a bit tricky. Jason road quite a few of the bikes up the ramp because some people were not confident in their ability to do it themselves. Needless to say I rode my own bike up the ramp. The bikes were all weighed, mine weighed 300kg!
The bikes are almost sorted; we have to return to the airport cargo terminal in the morning for the customs inspection. We took a taxi to the hotel, when I say hotel I mean grotty dump. We might look for somewhere better tomorrow. I complained to Caroline about it and she said it looked nice on the internet – beware of the internet!
26 April 2010
Colombia
Sunday 25th April 2010
Pasto to Ibague
405 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9590
An early start this morning due to the delays getting into Colombia yesterday. I wasn’t convinced we would make it to our destination today, especially when the day started with rain and twisty mountain roads. We made slow progress with all of us riding in a group mainly due to the wet roads. Whilst I was following Jonny he had a near miss with a pickup because he was overtaking on the wrong side of a bend. It can be very difficult overtaking on these mountain roads with very few straight sections.
Today Roy was riding pillion with Nigel because he refused to drive the pickup due to its brake failure yesterday when he ran into the back of a truck, luckily at low speed. The pickup is an old nail and its surprising it’s made it this far. Mr Sanders should have put his hand a little further in his pocket when he purchased the support vehicle.
Nigel, Martin, Roy and I stopped for a break at a roadside cafe. Lovely food, friendly service and cheap. We had one more stop in the afternoon for chocolate and a coke.
There were some good stretches of dual carriageway roads past some of the towns which enabled us to make up some time. However, the last part of the route was again in the mountains with a climb up to 3600 metres. The climb and then decent down the other side seemed to take forever. The traffic on the road is difficult to pass due to the constant bends I long for some straight roads for a while! By the time we reached Ibague it was dark. We were directed to the hotel by a local man on a moped (a theme is developing here). Shower, food, beer, blog and bed.
Tomorrow we take the bikes to the airport at Bogota.
Pasto to Ibague
405 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9590
An early start this morning due to the delays getting into Colombia yesterday. I wasn’t convinced we would make it to our destination today, especially when the day started with rain and twisty mountain roads. We made slow progress with all of us riding in a group mainly due to the wet roads. Whilst I was following Jonny he had a near miss with a pickup because he was overtaking on the wrong side of a bend. It can be very difficult overtaking on these mountain roads with very few straight sections.
Today Roy was riding pillion with Nigel because he refused to drive the pickup due to its brake failure yesterday when he ran into the back of a truck, luckily at low speed. The pickup is an old nail and its surprising it’s made it this far. Mr Sanders should have put his hand a little further in his pocket when he purchased the support vehicle.
Nigel, Martin, Roy and I stopped for a break at a roadside cafe. Lovely food, friendly service and cheap. We had one more stop in the afternoon for chocolate and a coke.
There were some good stretches of dual carriageway roads past some of the towns which enabled us to make up some time. However, the last part of the route was again in the mountains with a climb up to 3600 metres. The climb and then decent down the other side seemed to take forever. The traffic on the road is difficult to pass due to the constant bends I long for some straight roads for a while! By the time we reached Ibague it was dark. We were directed to the hotel by a local man on a moped (a theme is developing here). Shower, food, beer, blog and bed.
Tomorrow we take the bikes to the airport at Bogota.
25 April 2010
Ecuador to Colombia
Saturday 24th April 2010
Cayambe to Pasto
170 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9185
Another border crossing today which took about 4 hours for all of us to get through, apart from Joe who wasn’t allowed in the country because he is Bahrainian, and was told by the embassy that he wouldn’t need a visa. He’s now on his way back to Quito so that he can fly to Panama.
The roads through Ecuador were a bit tedious, there are so many buses and lorries that you are constantly overtaking to make progress. However, allot of the scenery is outstanding. Its a shame there isn't more time to take photographs. We had to change our destination today because of the long border crossing so tomorrow will be a long day. The plan is to get to Bogota, about 800km's away, but I thing this will not be possible on these roads and safety will be an issue.
Friday 23rd April 2010
Azogues to Cayambe
310 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9015
Thursday 22nd April 2010
Mancora to Azogues
240 Miles
The day started off very warm, it must have been in the mid 20’s at breakfast time. We set off at 8.30ish and the temperature on the bike display was 28 deg C. We filled up with fuel at the edge of town and made our way to the border post 85 miles away. Leaving Peru was the easy bit, a quick look at the passport and a stamp and we were done. At the entrance to Ecuador things were slightly different, the first form was completed quickly then we had to go to another office to complete the paperwork for the bikes. Luckily the office was air conditioned but we must have been in there for more than three hours. After that was completed we went for lunch at a roadside restaurant just up the road.
A few of us still have the insect bites on our legs from Lima. Brian’s were so badly swollen that he was struggling to walk. He wasn’t sure whether he would ride today or not. In the end he did, but without Suzanne who went in the truck with Roy and Eric. She was riding pillion with Jason but the heat was getting to her. We were off on our way with 155 miles to cover. The scenery was starting to become very green with mile upon mile of banana trees. The road continued into the mountains with some stunning scenery. The city of Cuenca thankfully had a bypass. We arrived at the Rivera Hotel in Azogues at 6.30pm. Food, beer and off to bed.
Wednesday 21st April 2010
Trujillo to Mancora
375 Miles
We were in quite a good hotel with a pool last night, unfortunately we got there last and there wasn’t enough time to enjoy the facilities. Just time to do my washing, eat and have a couple of beers.
Today we left the hotel at 8am. By that time Barry, Pete and Jo had been on the road for an hour. After fueling up we were on our way to Mancora. The roads to day have been quite boring, especially the hundred miles of desert we road across with nothing to look at but small bushes and sand. This part of the journey was very tiring due to the heat of about 35 degrees. After passing through the desert we stopped at the first town for lunch, a friendly little place with very tasty food.
After a short time back on the road Jonny had an accident, a moto taxi crossed the road in front of him and there was nothing he could do to avoid the accident. Luckily Jonny was not hurt and the bike only suffered a small amount of damage, a broken light and indicator. The last part of the journey was a little more interesting with some nice twisties through the hills. The hotel was found quite easily for a change and what a great place, right on the beach front with a pool. It’s a shame we weren’t hear earlier to enjoy the facilities. I’ve had a swim in the pool and in the sea, the Pacific Ocean no less, nice and warm unlike the sea in England. Another border crossing to look forward to tomorrow – Ecuador!
Cayambe to Pasto
170 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9185
Another border crossing today which took about 4 hours for all of us to get through, apart from Joe who wasn’t allowed in the country because he is Bahrainian, and was told by the embassy that he wouldn’t need a visa. He’s now on his way back to Quito so that he can fly to Panama.
The roads through Ecuador were a bit tedious, there are so many buses and lorries that you are constantly overtaking to make progress. However, allot of the scenery is outstanding. Its a shame there isn't more time to take photographs. We had to change our destination today because of the long border crossing so tomorrow will be a long day. The plan is to get to Bogota, about 800km's away, but I thing this will not be possible on these roads and safety will be an issue.
Friday 23rd April 2010
Azogues to Cayambe
310 Miles
Total PanAm miles 9015
Thursday 22nd April 2010
Mancora to Azogues
240 Miles
The day started off very warm, it must have been in the mid 20’s at breakfast time. We set off at 8.30ish and the temperature on the bike display was 28 deg C. We filled up with fuel at the edge of town and made our way to the border post 85 miles away. Leaving Peru was the easy bit, a quick look at the passport and a stamp and we were done. At the entrance to Ecuador things were slightly different, the first form was completed quickly then we had to go to another office to complete the paperwork for the bikes. Luckily the office was air conditioned but we must have been in there for more than three hours. After that was completed we went for lunch at a roadside restaurant just up the road.
A few of us still have the insect bites on our legs from Lima. Brian’s were so badly swollen that he was struggling to walk. He wasn’t sure whether he would ride today or not. In the end he did, but without Suzanne who went in the truck with Roy and Eric. She was riding pillion with Jason but the heat was getting to her. We were off on our way with 155 miles to cover. The scenery was starting to become very green with mile upon mile of banana trees. The road continued into the mountains with some stunning scenery. The city of Cuenca thankfully had a bypass. We arrived at the Rivera Hotel in Azogues at 6.30pm. Food, beer and off to bed.
Wednesday 21st April 2010
Trujillo to Mancora
375 Miles
We were in quite a good hotel with a pool last night, unfortunately we got there last and there wasn’t enough time to enjoy the facilities. Just time to do my washing, eat and have a couple of beers.
Today we left the hotel at 8am. By that time Barry, Pete and Jo had been on the road for an hour. After fueling up we were on our way to Mancora. The roads to day have been quite boring, especially the hundred miles of desert we road across with nothing to look at but small bushes and sand. This part of the journey was very tiring due to the heat of about 35 degrees. After passing through the desert we stopped at the first town for lunch, a friendly little place with very tasty food.
After a short time back on the road Jonny had an accident, a moto taxi crossed the road in front of him and there was nothing he could do to avoid the accident. Luckily Jonny was not hurt and the bike only suffered a small amount of damage, a broken light and indicator. The last part of the journey was a little more interesting with some nice twisties through the hills. The hotel was found quite easily for a change and what a great place, right on the beach front with a pool. It’s a shame we weren’t hear earlier to enjoy the facilities. I’ve had a swim in the pool and in the sea, the Pacific Ocean no less, nice and warm unlike the sea in England. Another border crossing to look forward to tomorrow – Ecuador!
21 April 2010
Peru
Tuesday 20th April 2010
Lima to Trujillo
370 Miles
Monday 19th April 2010
Lima (Jorge’s house)
0 Miles
Sunday 18th April 2010
Nazca to Lima
370 Miles
Saturday 17th April 2010
Cusco to Nazca
403 Miles
A longer journey than we thought today. We were told it was 480km, not so, it was 403 miles and all of it was twisty. Great biking roads but 12 hours of twisties was just too much!
Lima to Trujillo
370 Miles
I've been bitten!
Monday 19th April 2010
Lima (Jorge’s house)
0 Miles
Sunday 18th April 2010
Nazca to Lima
370 Miles
Saturday 17th April 2010
Cusco to Nazca
403 Miles
A longer journey than we thought today. We were told it was 480km, not so, it was 403 miles and all of it was twisty. Great biking roads but 12 hours of twisties was just too much!
16 April 2010
Chile, Bolivia and Peru
Friday 16th April 2010
Cusco
0 Miles
Rest day today. We were going to see Machu Picchu today but after investigating it at various travel agents in town last night it is not possible. We would have had to leave at 3am to take a 4 hour train ride and possibly not return train available. Besides that it was going to cost up to $260! It’s only a pile of old bricks anyway.
Thursday 15th April 2010
Copacabana to Cusco
325 Miles
After a fuel fill up and a short ride out of town we were at the border with Peru. This process took about two and a half hours with a bribe of 20 Peruvian soles (about £5) involved because I didn’t have insurance for Peru. At 10.30am we were on our way. The first part of the journey was up the eastern side of Lake Titicaca. To give you an idea of how big the lake is it took about an hour and a half to reach the top of the lake. The road went through several small towns which were full of activity. Vehicle repairs were being carried out by the roadside in the dirt and there was livestock and dogs everywhere. All along the route you could see people working in the fields, mainly women tending their crops and animals.
The road surfaces varied allot from perfect smooth tarmac to a very bumpy pot holed surface. One section involved road works which consisted of the road surface being covered in loose soil with ruts where vehicles had driven. I proceeded to drive in one of the ruts but not quickly enough and the front wheel washed out. I tried to hold the bike but it fell to the ground in slow motion. I managed to lift it up with the help of two people in a car behind me. Luckily I just managed to stay upright for the rest of this section which was only about 100 meters long. . The last part of the journey into Cusco was another crazy ride similar to the one into La Paz. With the sun just going down and right in my face it was difficult to see anything. After filling with fuel and getting some money from the ATM the sun had gone down a little more making riding easier. It was very busy with cars, buses, trucks and taxis all fighting for space on the road. There is no lane discipline here and the roads are in a shocking state. After getting near the centre Martin, Nigel and I asked a local man on a small motorbike for directions, he kindly led us to the hotel (Hotel El Rosal). On reaching the hotel we had to ride up a plank of wood over some steps outside and into the foyer of the hotel and then park the bikes outside in the courtyard/garden.
After getting cleaned up we went out for a meal. This is a tourist city and you are harassed frequently on the streets by people trying to sell you stuff you just can’t carry on a motorbike. Whilst eating our meal we were approached by a couple of young girls of about 7 years old trying to sell us dolls and small knitted bags. Tim gave in and bought one. I’m sharing a room again with Martin and Nigel, unfortunately Nigel snores but last night I didn’t hear him but Martin did.
Wednesday 14th April 2010
La Paz to Copacabana
96 Miles
From the hotel in La Paz we followed a taxi which was leading us out of the city. La Paz is a crazy place that stretches right up the hillside. Some of the streets were cobbled and quite steep, I don’t know what we would have done if it had been raining. It took us an hour and a half to get out into the countryside. It was a relief to leave the city and the choking fumes from all the vehicles which clearly don’t have and emissions checks. Allot of the vehicles were belching out thick black smoke.
The ride around Lake Titicaca to Copacabana was stunning. We took a small ferry across part of the lake; this consisted of a deck of wooden planks of which there were allot of gaps and rotten wood. Getting on and off was a bit tricky, especially having to reverse off with the help of others. Copacabana is a small lakeside tourist spot, but at the moment it looks like it’s the end of the season.
Tuesday 13th April 2010
Arica to La Paz
330 Miles
Monday 12th April 2010
San Pedro de Atacama to Arica
450 Miles
Sunday 11th April 2010
Tilcara to San Pedro de Atacama
270 Miles
Saturday 10th April 2010
Cafayate to Tilcara
220 Miles
Friday 9th April 2010
Catamarca to Cafayate
220 Miles
A nice easy day today through some wonderful mountain scenery.
Thursday 8th April 2010
San Jose de Jackal to Catamarca
360 Miles
Another nightmare day as far as towns are concerned. Sign posts here are few and far between, along the main roads there are signs with town names and mileages but when you get to the towns there are no signs! The locals are very friendly but when you don’t understand much of the lingo it can be quite confusing.
Wednesday 7th April 2010
San Rafael to San Jose de Jackal
350 Miles
Cusco
0 Miles
Rest day today. We were going to see Machu Picchu today but after investigating it at various travel agents in town last night it is not possible. We would have had to leave at 3am to take a 4 hour train ride and possibly not return train available. Besides that it was going to cost up to $260! It’s only a pile of old bricks anyway.
Thursday 15th April 2010
Copacabana to Cusco
325 Miles
After a fuel fill up and a short ride out of town we were at the border with Peru. This process took about two and a half hours with a bribe of 20 Peruvian soles (about £5) involved because I didn’t have insurance for Peru. At 10.30am we were on our way. The first part of the journey was up the eastern side of Lake Titicaca. To give you an idea of how big the lake is it took about an hour and a half to reach the top of the lake. The road went through several small towns which were full of activity. Vehicle repairs were being carried out by the roadside in the dirt and there was livestock and dogs everywhere. All along the route you could see people working in the fields, mainly women tending their crops and animals.
The road surfaces varied allot from perfect smooth tarmac to a very bumpy pot holed surface. One section involved road works which consisted of the road surface being covered in loose soil with ruts where vehicles had driven. I proceeded to drive in one of the ruts but not quickly enough and the front wheel washed out. I tried to hold the bike but it fell to the ground in slow motion. I managed to lift it up with the help of two people in a car behind me. Luckily I just managed to stay upright for the rest of this section which was only about 100 meters long. . The last part of the journey into Cusco was another crazy ride similar to the one into La Paz. With the sun just going down and right in my face it was difficult to see anything. After filling with fuel and getting some money from the ATM the sun had gone down a little more making riding easier. It was very busy with cars, buses, trucks and taxis all fighting for space on the road. There is no lane discipline here and the roads are in a shocking state. After getting near the centre Martin, Nigel and I asked a local man on a small motorbike for directions, he kindly led us to the hotel (Hotel El Rosal). On reaching the hotel we had to ride up a plank of wood over some steps outside and into the foyer of the hotel and then park the bikes outside in the courtyard/garden.
After getting cleaned up we went out for a meal. This is a tourist city and you are harassed frequently on the streets by people trying to sell you stuff you just can’t carry on a motorbike. Whilst eating our meal we were approached by a couple of young girls of about 7 years old trying to sell us dolls and small knitted bags. Tim gave in and bought one. I’m sharing a room again with Martin and Nigel, unfortunately Nigel snores but last night I didn’t hear him but Martin did.
Wednesday 14th April 2010
La Paz to Copacabana
96 Miles
From the hotel in La Paz we followed a taxi which was leading us out of the city. La Paz is a crazy place that stretches right up the hillside. Some of the streets were cobbled and quite steep, I don’t know what we would have done if it had been raining. It took us an hour and a half to get out into the countryside. It was a relief to leave the city and the choking fumes from all the vehicles which clearly don’t have and emissions checks. Allot of the vehicles were belching out thick black smoke.
The ride around Lake Titicaca to Copacabana was stunning. We took a small ferry across part of the lake; this consisted of a deck of wooden planks of which there were allot of gaps and rotten wood. Getting on and off was a bit tricky, especially having to reverse off with the help of others. Copacabana is a small lakeside tourist spot, but at the moment it looks like it’s the end of the season.
Tuesday 13th April 2010
Arica to La Paz
330 Miles
Monday 12th April 2010
San Pedro de Atacama to Arica
450 Miles
Sunday 11th April 2010
Tilcara to San Pedro de Atacama
270 Miles
Saturday 10th April 2010
Cafayate to Tilcara
220 Miles
Friday 9th April 2010
Catamarca to Cafayate
220 Miles
A nice easy day today through some wonderful mountain scenery.
Thursday 8th April 2010
San Jose de Jackal to Catamarca
360 Miles
Another nightmare day as far as towns are concerned. Sign posts here are few and far between, along the main roads there are signs with town names and mileages but when you get to the towns there are no signs! The locals are very friendly but when you don’t understand much of the lingo it can be quite confusing.
Wednesday 7th April 2010
San Rafael to San Jose de Jackal
350 Miles
07 April 2010
Tuesday 6th April 2010
Zapala to San rafael - 490 miles
Another long day. We took one of the most boring roads, flat and straight and nothing to look at. This route was chosen because one of group didn't want to do any off road. Heated discussions about that were had later in the day.
We had a bit of a delay riding through Neuquen where some sort of protest was in full swing on the main highway.
At the afternoon fuel stop we encountered a problem, a power cut so no petrol. We decided to try and make it to the next fuel stop riding as economicaly as possible at 50mph. We stopped along the way to give some of our spare fuel to Clive who had ran out. Eventually we made it to the next fuel station with about 6 miles to spare.
We arrived at hotel Vinas, San Rafael at 9 o'clock, tired and pissed off.
Another long day. We took one of the most boring roads, flat and straight and nothing to look at. This route was chosen because one of group didn't want to do any off road. Heated discussions about that were had later in the day.
We had a bit of a delay riding through Neuquen where some sort of protest was in full swing on the main highway.
At the afternoon fuel stop we encountered a problem, a power cut so no petrol. We decided to try and make it to the next fuel stop riding as economicaly as possible at 50mph. We stopped along the way to give some of our spare fuel to Clive who had ran out. Eventually we made it to the next fuel station with about 6 miles to spare.
We arrived at hotel Vinas, San Rafael at 9 o'clock, tired and pissed off.
Random pics
Back on tarmac after 80 miles of piste.
Glaciar Perito Moreno
Sunrise from the campsite somewhere on Ruta 40
Mountain scenereyStill in Argentina
Monday 5th April 2010
230 Miles
Rode from Bariloche to Zapala
Nice relaxing day, easy on the mileage. We left at 10am, it took us a while to get out of the town because it was busy and confusing. After leaving the town the scenery was instantly beautiful, a photo opportunity on every corner. Myself, Nigel, Martin and Brian and Suz were riding in a group. The pace was steady, about 65mph as there was no rush with only 230 miles to cover. We stopped a few times for photos and to eat.
In the early afternoon we were all getting low on petrol, so the pace slowed down a little. However, I was confident my bike would make it, which it did with 4 miles of fuel left when we arrived at the petrol station at Zapala.
230 Miles
Rode from Bariloche to Zapala
Nice relaxing day, easy on the mileage. We left at 10am, it took us a while to get out of the town because it was busy and confusing. After leaving the town the scenery was instantly beautiful, a photo opportunity on every corner. Myself, Nigel, Martin and Brian and Suz were riding in a group. The pace was steady, about 65mph as there was no rush with only 230 miles to cover. We stopped a few times for photos and to eat.
In the early afternoon we were all getting low on petrol, so the pace slowed down a little. However, I was confident my bike would make it, which it did with 4 miles of fuel left when we arrived at the petrol station at Zapala.
05 April 2010
Ruta 40
Saturday 3rd April 2010
Sat outside the hotel at Porto Moreno waiting for the insurance company to sort out John Hemmings who had a bad crash yesterday. He fell off after hitting the gravel road at about 75 mph. He has cracked his pelvis and three ribs, he is just walking though. Surprisingly enough the bike survived quite well. Roy has now repaired the bike to a drivable condition.
We’ve been sat here for more than five hours. We’ve checked over our bikes, mine has a small oil leak from the sight glass. Bolts have been tightened and chains lubricated. The bikes have suffered over the last two days because of the crap roads we have been riding on; it feels like the bike is being shaken to bits. It is very hard riding in these conditions. Sometimes there is hard compacted gravel which is not too bad other times you get a compacted rut about a foot wide with a pile of loose gravel either side. This is scary because of the wind which is so strong and it can blow you of track without any warning.
There was another accident last night. Eric went ahead to find the truck and on his return he hit a cow which has knackered the bike big time.
Sat outside the hotel at Porto Moreno waiting for the insurance company to sort out John Hemmings who had a bad crash yesterday. He fell off after hitting the gravel road at about 75 mph. He has cracked his pelvis and three ribs, he is just walking though. Surprisingly enough the bike survived quite well. Roy has now repaired the bike to a drivable condition.
We’ve been sat here for more than five hours. We’ve checked over our bikes, mine has a small oil leak from the sight glass. Bolts have been tightened and chains lubricated. The bikes have suffered over the last two days because of the crap roads we have been riding on; it feels like the bike is being shaken to bits. It is very hard riding in these conditions. Sometimes there is hard compacted gravel which is not too bad other times you get a compacted rut about a foot wide with a pile of loose gravel either side. This is scary because of the wind which is so strong and it can blow you of track without any warning.
There was another accident last night. Eric went ahead to find the truck and on his return he hit a cow which has knackered the bike big time.
30 March 2010
28th March 2010
What a day. Absolutely bollocksed!! 8am start from hotel in Rio Gallegos. Approx 50 miles to Chile border. What a palaver, go to counter get form, fill form in, take to next counter, get form stamped, take passport and V5 to next counter and get another form, take to another 3 counters and get a slip of paper and give to guard at border. Hey ho!
30 miles later the piste begins, never ridden on it before. Not too bad, hard ground where the tyre tracks are so riding in a straight line is ok, but for an interesting twist there is loose gravel on the corners – nice! All was well until Nigel and Pete who were following me disappeared for a minute so I decided to turn around to see what had happened to them. I slipped into the gulley at the side of the road and dropped the bike trying to get out. I managed to pick it up but in an effort to drive out of the gulley dropped it again. This time I could not pick it up, luckily a truck driver stopped to help me. Our combined efforts were still not enough but Jonny the Viking quickly arrived on the scene and all was well.
After negotiating more border posts and more bullshit red tape we expected a fuel station. Nigel and I were soon low on fuel and I ran out 2 miles after the bike said it was empty. Nigel went ahead to find fuel. Soon along came Martin, Brian and Suzanne. I siphoned fuel from Martins tank and carried on for a few miles until I had to take more from Martins tank. Eventually we came to a town called Rio Grande and filled my tank. Nigel then went back to take fuel to Rob so we waited at the fuel station.
It was dark by the time we arrived at Ushuaia, the last few miles having some amazing bends but not too enjoyable in the dark. Without a map we struggled to find the hotel but a helpful local guided us too it. It was 9.30 when we arrived. Out for a quick meal and a beer and then to bed. I was woken up by Pete’s snoring at about 4am!
What a day. Absolutely bollocksed!! 8am start from hotel in Rio Gallegos. Approx 50 miles to Chile border. What a palaver, go to counter get form, fill form in, take to next counter, get form stamped, take passport and V5 to next counter and get another form, take to another 3 counters and get a slip of paper and give to guard at border. Hey ho!
30 miles later the piste begins, never ridden on it before. Not too bad, hard ground where the tyre tracks are so riding in a straight line is ok, but for an interesting twist there is loose gravel on the corners – nice! All was well until Nigel and Pete who were following me disappeared for a minute so I decided to turn around to see what had happened to them. I slipped into the gulley at the side of the road and dropped the bike trying to get out. I managed to pick it up but in an effort to drive out of the gulley dropped it again. This time I could not pick it up, luckily a truck driver stopped to help me. Our combined efforts were still not enough but Jonny the Viking quickly arrived on the scene and all was well.
After negotiating more border posts and more bullshit red tape we expected a fuel station. Nigel and I were soon low on fuel and I ran out 2 miles after the bike said it was empty. Nigel went ahead to find fuel. Soon along came Martin, Brian and Suzanne. I siphoned fuel from Martins tank and carried on for a few miles until I had to take more from Martins tank. Eventually we came to a town called Rio Grande and filled my tank. Nigel then went back to take fuel to Rob so we waited at the fuel station.
It was dark by the time we arrived at Ushuaia, the last few miles having some amazing bends but not too enjoyable in the dark. Without a map we struggled to find the hotel but a helpful local guided us too it. It was 9.30 when we arrived. Out for a quick meal and a beer and then to bed. I was woken up by Pete’s snoring at about 4am!
28 March 2010
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