Cycling The Globe

Distance: 87.4 km
Ride time: 4:19:35
Average: 20.2 km/h
Max speed: 36.7 km/h
Total: 40585 km

“Hi, this is from CBS News. Would you like to be interviewed in 15 minutes?” – was what I heard when I picked up the phone in the morning. Hmm yeah, why not! I made a stop at the Schuylkill River and waited for the TV crew to show up.

I still don’t feel 100% comfortable in front of the camera, but then again, this project is all about getting out of the comfort zone. I think the result turned out OK in the end.

Back on the road I was making my way across the Delawere River into New Jersey – already state number 9 on this little US ride of mine. People had told me that signposting is almost nonexistent in New Jersey. After a few hours in the state I tend to agree.

Back in June I had stayed in my friend Juan Carlos’ house in Guatemala City. It turns out that Juan Carlos has a cousin who is the manager of a bike store in Kensington – a place I would be passing by today. John W2GD joined me for a visit to the Hartley’s Cycle Shoppe where we were welcomed by Oscar.

Oscar had written that he would be happy to help out if the Bianchi needed some work. I had imagined that we could perhaps put on some new pedals and change the break cables, but thanks to both Oscar’s and John’s generosity I ended up with a new chain, casette, breaks, lights, lubricants, and even a nice new cycle jersey as well! Wow, both Bianchi and I were deeply moved. Thanks!

With a bike that looked and felt better than it has in a very long time we went over to Dave K3EL’s place who had invited me to stay for the night. Another beautiful summer evening with great food and even greater company. I feel truly lucky to be doing what I am doing.