Utah kicked our asses today. Immediately leaving Cedar City, we had a straight climb to 10,000 feet. I had some temperatures into the 20s. Then a cold ride into Bryce Canyon. Then 75 miles of dirt and partially paved roads that lead to a ferry that took you across Lake Powell every other hour. After making that, 110 miles in high winds and desolate highway to Blanding. A town that is dry. Had to use the flask tonight.
About 6 or so guys crashed during the 45 mile dirt road segment. Jim T, 69 years old - went down in the switch backs (photo above). Broke 4 ribs, collar bone, dislocated his shoulder. Blacked out after the crash. Woke, managed to get the bike off him and back up, continued to ride about 30 miles, through awful, dirt, deep sand, washboard ruts/regular ruts, mud/water. To the ferry. They took him off the ferry onto an emergency boat. They confirmed the aforementioned injuries --- he then proceeded to ride the remaining 110 miles to Blanding. He insists on continuing.
A few of the other guys wiped out pretty good. Busted up Vespa's tonight in the hotel parking lot maintenance happy hour, bruises, broken parts. I am not sure how I made it out without crashing. I almost lost it a few times - took it slow and steady. Barely made it through a bad mud wash out.
I did manage to take lots of photos today. I am disappointed in them... I wish they really captured how big, vast... some of these views are. But, they dont.
1 comment:
Dave,
Thanks for the great photos. It helps us voyeurs in our comfortable home offices be able to enjoy your trip. Thank you for the descriptive accounts of your daily adventures. Good luck on the rest of your trip - we're pulling for you!!
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