One thing I love about Central Asia is the Soviet art work, found on the town signs and bus stops.
In retrospect, this little strip of restaurants, “kofe”s, and “magazines” will be the second to last stop before heading into the Steppe. Everyone is so friendly and waving to me. The wind is still strong and I can hear the aluminum roofs creaking and cracking. This family is very insistent on having my company, waving me over and inviting me for tea, naan, and “cmetana”. I can only stay for a short time as I have to try and make up time from the day before. After about a half an hour I say my thanks, show my gratitude, and move on.
I get back into a nice green area, little traffic, and the trees block the wind so it’s no problem.
1st flat, repair
2nd flat. . A wonderful babushka comes over to chat me up. She’s wonderful and I explain my problem. A shepherd comes over later and observes me, a nice fella.
Upon closer inspection I see I’ve blown out my first tire of tour. I was able to put about 12,000km on this tire, which is pretty damn good in my opinion. I’m wondering if the blizzard helped destroy it. I patch it with some duct tape, hoping it will work.
3rd flat, and I’m on the edge of the Steppe. I take shade and take care of the matter. I chuck the tube and the tire and put on my MTB 2.1 knobbies that I know will kill some of my progress. Trying not to think too much about and reassuring myself I can find a new one in Almaty.
Self-portrait after tire repair.
I pull off the road to make camp. No tent as the weather is great. I hear a shepherd whistling and a dog, so I stay still and hope they pass without seeing me. I begin to notice mosquitoes in the area, and it’s not too bad by wrapping myself up in my silk bag liner. “zzzZZzzz” “zzzZzzz” next to my ears.
I would think that – after 3 flats – you’d be looking a little more irritated.
I would think that – after 3 flats – you’d be looking a little more irritated.
Love your photos.
Love your photos.