Good question about getting ready. What do I mean, anyway?
OK, the bike doesn't have the right racks yet (I can fix that today), I've let my clothing get a bit on the sketchy side for something like a long distance trip, and my general conditioning is not up to snuff.
OTOH, Panniers are OK, bike is running like a top, I've been changing tires/tubes and doing basic maintenance since the beginning (thanks Dad), and if I happen to ride slowly, I'm the only one that will notice, or care.
The length of the trip is a bit ambitious, and that worries me. I'm riding 10 to 30 miles daily right now - not really enough, I know. I guess I'll have to ride more for a month.
I'm really not social enough for a big group (more than 4 total riders), so the supported tours are pretty much out for me. I'd like to take DH along, but he has obligations at home. It looks like I either take this opportunity for a trip solo, or wait an unspecified amount of time (forever?) for DH to get free.
Update: I just got off the phone with my brother who told me that I just couldn't take a bike trip like that. Danger, too far, dangerous, all by myself, danger, splutter, splutter, splutter. Just what I needed, he stiffened my spine wonderfully. I'm going out now and buying racks and clothes.
Give big space to the festive dog that make sport in the roadway. Avoid entanglement with your wheel spoke.
(Sign in Japan)
1978 Raleigh Gran Prix
2003 EZ Sport AX