Day 11 was a continuation of day 10. Fantastic or at least the morning portion was. We cycled across the upper Sahara. You could see for miles and miles. Just a vast flat wasteland. It gave you the feeling of insignificance.
We had a nice tailwind for the morning and first part of the afternoon about 90 of the 155 kilometers for the day. Once again we were just flying across the desert eating up the miles. Then just after lunch the directions had us taking the fork to the left. Oh no, WRONG DIRECTION! Wrong direction to maintain the beautiful tailwind. Then a couple of kilometers past that the road veered to the left. The first thought was.... dear lord no, not that direction. Oh yes, that direction! Into the teeth of a strong headwind. We didn't realize how strong the tailwind had been until then. But it sure was a massive headwind. We went from knocking out the miles at 29-30 mph to eaking out 9-10 mph. So went the afternoon.... slugging it out against the wind. Dearly winning one small kilometer at a time. In this case I was glad it was kilometers versus miles. You had at least a bigger sense of accomplishment when you would see 1 then 2 then 3 kilometers rack up versus the much larger and less frequent degree of success that miles afford.
We couldn't wait to get the day done. I coasted into the desert camp with nothing left. Or more appropriately, less than nothing because the 96 miles took all that I had and more. Thank god tomorrow is a rest day.
The road just seemed to disappear into the vastness of the desert
Only 40 more kilometers and we will have conquered Egypt!
Hi Mike,
ReplyDeleteA couple questions: How are the Visa requirements crossing borders handled? Also is there a rail line paralleling the power lines and your route? Oh yes, we all sympathize regarding the strong headwinds!
Enjoy your rest day
Bob and Linda
At least the first 60 or so were fun. So far I think it might be doable on my recumbent. That is something I was not sure about before you started the ride. It will be interesting to see and hear about the roads you face later on.
ReplyDeleteI hope your enjoying your ride as much as I am. I can't wait to get to the computer to see what's next.
Ray Van Ostran
Ray, so far yes a recumbent would work. But once we hit Ethiopia and Tanzania and Namibia, not so much. Montana Mike asked about it and the tour operator said wouldn't work.
DeleteMike
I too wait to read you daily account. I see no cars in the pictures? It must be a real quiet ride.
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ReplyDeleteI love following your blog, look forward to it everyday. Kristy Patterson
ReplyDeleteI know this may sound strange but the sand desert is beautiful. Wow! I'm sure your head wind didn't allow you or make you want to look around but I'm glad you took the photos. Stunning. Rest those legs....sounds like you deserve it. Pam North
ReplyDelete