As a result of our third crossing of the Ohio River, we reached Louisville, Kentucky. We didn't necessarily have Louisville on our radars, until we realized our trajectory would be steering near the town, so we decided to look up some ex-Bendites and check it out. Aside from making a namesake in wooden bats, I knew nothing about the place. So for me, the city's eclectic mash of Midwest and Southern culture sparked an interest which will only be satisfied by more time there in the future.
We reached the residence of our gracious hosts, Jesse and Amber, on a Thursday evening, with the honest intention of resting Friday, and heading out Saturday morning. When Saturday morning arrived, we were missing one wallet, so the parting atmosphere was lackadaisical to say the least. After enjoying Amber's delicious crepes and exhausting all wallet recovery efforts, we suited up and began our farewells when suddenly one flat tire emerged, then another. Once the tires were all full again, we took to the streets for an intended late afternoon exodus from Louisville. Unfortunately, the combination of fate and poor health of some of our equipment had another plan in store; which put us back to three wallets, but left us in need of a shoe repair. In a humbling group decision, we reached out to our then former hosts for an encore. Jesse and Amber's understanding, tolerance, and kindness were much needed and appreciated.
Louisville turned out to be the beginning of a week long struggle to move down the road without equipment issues. It seems 4,300 miles is about the point where quality and durability shine above products meant for moderate use. This mile marker has represented the end to a variety of products; tires and derailleurs being the biggest offenders, shoes and sleeping pads coming in at a close second. Our wave of equipment failure has led us to consider reaching out to applicable brands and offer product testing. Anybody?
In light of all these mishaps, I'm grateful for the gear that has stood this test, like the sturdy Kona that Sellwood Cycle Repair set me up on, which has left me without mechanical issues beyond the occasional puncture. In fact, of the original six tires, mine are the only two remaining. I'm also glad to have Dan along on his trusty Vulture, who knows a thing or two about bikes and can have parts shipped to random post offices along the route thanks to Village Bike and Ski in Sunriver.
Long range bike tour tested and approved.
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