Sunday was a bittersweet day for me. I woke up and I knew what I had to do. I had to disassemble the bike and pack it into the bike box. In doing so, it would conclude my riding days on my brother’s Bianchi. I have to hand back his beloved touring bike when I return to America. I’m glad he will finally have his bike back as I know he has surely missed it.
I had to get one more ride in before packing it up, so I headed out on the same route that Sean and I had done last week. This time I took Sean’s riding tip to heart (pedaling faster in a lower gear) and it was a big help. I did end up getting caught in some really hot Summer mid-day heat, but I wanted to expose myself to those conditions as they would be the norm for this Summer’s journey.
During this last ride, I did a lot of reflection on all of my rides in both Yeosu and Asan. I can wholeheartedly say that I have learned a lot about road biking in those seven months. Most notably, I would say tuning/maintaining a road bike, riding safe in cities, riding safe in the countryside, handling a road bike at fast downhill speeds, and climbing hills were all things that I learned. Changing a flat on the side of the road, was another thing. I can’t forget that!
I am looking forward to the upcoming touring adventures in America, but I think these past bike tours will hold a special place in my heart. I don’t know what else to say other than, so long Korea. See you in nine weeks.