Continuing prep for the South American ride. Thursday I rode to Steen Mississippi on a dual purpose ride. I loaded the KLR with all the items I intend to carry with me on the trip. This was done as a shake-down ride to determine handling characteristics and logical layout of the loaded items. What did I discover. There were a couple items I decided I didn't need such as a leather backbrace. I also discovered that I crushed my brand new Pentax W90 waterproof/shockproof camera. Fortunately, I purchased an extended warranty to include hazards when I bought the camera. I have to sort out the warranty to get a replacement camera. How did that happen? I tied my camera case to the KLR's handlebars in a similiar place I do on the BMW's to facilitate using the camera while riding down the road. Unfortunately, the clearance between the handle bars and the gas tank is not the same as on the BMW. Oh well, better to discover that now than to destroy the camera on the trip and not get any pictures.
Second purpose of the trip was to get my friends, Paul & Gail Thorn and Dave Smith to assist me in adjusting the valves and a couple of other fixes on the bike. Through their master mechanical abilities the bike now runs much better. Now I only have to change the front tire and the oil to have the bike ready for the trip.
There are always other things that have
to be attended as well as trip planning. Last week I broke the PTO and hydraulic functions on my tractor while bush-hogging. With the expert help of Mike Weyler, we have the tractor split and awaiting a new set of clutches.
Only two months from today till our departure day.
BTW today is the 65th anniversary of VJ Day. If see an old WWII veteran, please thank him.
Gary
to be attended as well as trip planning. Last week I broke the PTO and hydraulic functions on my tractor while bush-hogging. With the expert help of Mike Weyler, we have the tractor split and awaiting a new set of clutches.