Day 14 Las Vegas NM to Tucumcari, NM 108 miles
The reason we had such a long ride today is that there is next to nothing between Las Vegas and Tucumcari. The only place to get anything is a decrepit looking store at about mile 75.
You're probably getting tired of me talking about the wind, but it can make or break your day. Today it was blowing a steady 30 mph with stronger gusts. As long as the road headed east (most of the time) it was great you could go 25 mph on the flats. But, there were times when the road turned south or north that it got a little hairy. The cross wind made things treacherous. You had to get a death grip on the handle bars in order to fight the gusts. A few people (maybe the smart ones) decided to put their bikes in the van and ride ahead where the road straightened out.
We passed through an interesting geological area: The Canadian Escarpment. Its where the high plains around Las Vegas (6400') drop down to the plains around Tucumcari (4100'). There is no warning that you are coming to the escarpment. The road makes a sharp left turn and it's like you're on the edge of a cliff (because you are). The view is exceptional -maybe 100 miles. The ride down is exciting to say the least.
Tomorrow we're off to Dalhart Texas. It's 98 miles of mostly flat roads. I hope the wind stays with us.
Hey Cowboy......thanks for explaining The Camadian Escarpment. I was ready to Google. Sounds beautiful and exciting all at the same time. Sure you don't want to trade your bike for a horse when you get to Texas. You would look great in a cowboy hat. Be safe and enjoy your 98 miles to Dalhart.
ReplyDeleteI know, I know, I forgot a question mark!
ReplyDeleteLinda Ronstadt sings:
ReplyDeleteIve been from Tuscon to Tucumcari,
Tehachapi to Tonadah.
I've driven every kind of rig that's ever been made.
Driven the back roads so I wouldn't get weighed.
And if you give me weed, whites & wine,
and you show me a sign,
then I'll be willin', to be movin'
That's how I knew Tucumcari. The song is "Willin'".
I live my life in songs.
Great pics and stories, S.A. Watson!
Keep up the good work!
the area you are passing through for the next few days is the RED section on the tornado map...looks like that region has been quite active......talk about a death grip, better hang on hard and wear an extra helmet.
ReplyDeleteby the way, chas, you are sooooo deep!
ReplyDeletebeaver, you did a typo on Tucumcari, chas spelled it correctly
ReplyDeleteHi Sam,
ReplyDeleteAs I read your daily logs, they make me wish I could have gone with you -- had my WW Viet Nam injuries not flared up the way they did. You'd think that some people, i.e.,Clayboobs, would show a little respect -- given that it is almost Memorial Day.
Anyhow, I managed to do some gardening today and took a nap so I can stay up to watch Glee tonight. Hope the winds did treat you well -- as you report from yet another state tonight I again salute YOU, my friend!
what a bucket full!
ReplyDelete