Second lesson learned: Crossing the mountains at night makes for some cold riding! When I was packing, the temperature was in the high 80s. Crossing the mountains, I encountered snow!
I arrived in Billings, MT, early Tuesday morning, slept there for a few hours and visited with friends. And borrowed some spandex-type shorts for under my jeans and chaps during my night riding.
After waiting out some severe storm warnings, I left Billings at sundown, accompanied by five members of the Talon MC Club. That was the first time I ever rode with more than one other rider.
Third lesson learned: I can hold my own in a group! Especially if the group is out for a leisurely stroll. The guys road along as far as Hardin, MT. (Although two turned around much sooner---shortly after the lightning started.)
We stopped in Hardin, said our good-byes, and they headed back to Billings. Then I hopped back on the sow and discovered that she wouldn't start. Fortunately, a guy passing by offered to push so I could get her going.
I rode all that night, having to get push-started at every stop. And made it to Rapid City, SD, Wednesday morning.
I spent that day visiting with Penny and Skiv, sleeping on their couch and admiring the visiting peacock who seems to have fallen in love with the hen turkey. Now, that's entertainment!
I'm really glad I had the opportunity to meet Penny and Skiv. They were great hosts, I couldn't have asked for better. Skiv checked out my bike and topped off the oil tank. I unloaded it and tightened the battery connection.
By evening, I was ready to head out again. Penny accompanied me for a ways, and she didn't even tell on me for almost missing a curve on the road leading out of their place. What a lady!
I did the rest of the trip, +600 miles, more or less straight through. Not much to report. I bought a blanket at one of the truck stops and used it when I napped on a cement pedastool at one of the rest areas.
Fourth lesson learned: Minnesota has great rest areas!
I did almost hit a bird somewhere--not sure where. But it was early morning, a long straight stretch of highway with tall grasses along the edges. There was a station wagon not far behind me in the passing lane. The bird--some sort of big black bird--flew up from the grasses to my right and directly into my path. I ducked--fast (no windshield)--surprising myself that I was still able to react quickly after that many hours of riding. It must have been close, because when the station wagon passed me, the passengers were clapping and gave me a thumbs-up sign. I just grinned! Another first!
John came out to meet me in Dexter, MN, and led me into Winona. I enjoyed the chance to admire a rider who is really at one with his bike! I wonder if I'll ever be able to corner even half as well.
Fifth lesson learned: I'm still an amateur.
First words upon arrival at the ranch: "I did it!"
Skip the rest of the story and return to home.
CLM -- 7/27/96; revised 2/21/98