day 3
[this entry dated by when it was written, not when it was posted]
I wimped out today. I only rode the 146 miles
necessary to get back to Ann Arbor from Grand Rapids. I have to
reiterate (in my own defense): that bike became quite uncomfortable
quite quickly. Same pains in the same places.
What helped make it easier was finding some very cute
roads with hilly topography, no shoulders, lots of trees, sweet-smelling
farm air, minimal traffic, and quaint farm houses. Maybe next time I'll
take a helmet-mounted video camera (if I get corporate funding).
It turns out all of the little towns I rode through are
built from the same blueprint. Try this: drive along a county road, say
M-37. Eventually the speed lmit drops, you hit residential areas, and
then finally you'll see the "downtown." The county road will inevitably
be called "Main Street," "State Street," or "Center Street" while in the
town. Look to your right and you'll see a grassy square at the center of
the town with a fountain on it. Nearby wil be the town hall which will
have classic architecture and a clock on its tower. The next block will
have the samll businesses and restaurants in old-timey-facaded
buildings.
The trip has ended with some sense of accomplishment. I
guess it's the sense of completing something I've been thinking about for
a while, and it wasn't exactly easy... And a sense of learning about my
abilities and limitations. Total distance: 531 miles.
Would I do it again? I think so, especially when I get
a more comfortable bike. It's honestly an experience I'd suggest for all
motorcyclists - just to know what's out there and to bond with your
machine (it actually happens!).
odometer (guestbook)
cloud watching