Good God it is September Already...

I had planned on a quick visit to the shop for Blondie, but unfortunately the day was long as she got new wheel bearings, a clutch cable, and a brand new battery.  I also have stocked up on a few spare parts, such as a rear wheel sprocket and fork seals.  My challenge will be to pack sensibly and also to ensure that the bike is not overloaded.


An old farmers' trick to remove the rear wheel bearings...

and by heating the housing, the new bearings will slip in and be secure

New bearings installed.

Bearings installed on a new Heideneau..

New brake shoes ready to roll..

 A brand new replacement battery, considerably smaller and lighter

I was asked to leave the shop area because I was asking too many questions of the technician.  I understand shop policies about insurance, but I have always quibbled about these policies. I wonder how one is to learn about the mechanics of his bike if you cannot learn from the experts.  I suppose that I was slowing down the process, however..

The showroom has a new F700 GS.  I find it interesting that BMW has decided to market a 700 and an 800.

This KTM is for sale.  A great looking bike, and I have seen good riders do some pretty fantastic offroad riding with this big bike...

I had made a deal with Gwyn Davis, the author/technician at the shop that I wanted a copy of his novel when it came out.  He had saved some copies for me.

Gwyn working on some bikes outside of the shop.  His first book, Moon Tanning, is available online.

A new F800 GS from Quadra Island in for its first checkup

I was unable to get away from Victoria with enough time to ride through to Tahsis.  I found a Rest Area near Union Bay where I was able to get a reasonable nights' sleep.    Did I mention that packing light and sensibly is my biggest challenge?  I have been leaving caches of clothes and parts with my friends and family as I have travelled this summer.  I am trying to gather all of this stuff and get it back to Tahsis.

As I crossed the Buttle Lake Bridge, a forest fire was showing smoke to the south of the lake.

After a summer of travelling, it is time for a shave and a haircut.  The hairdresser said that she would provide me with a note for the border guards, after I asked for a cut which took off 20 years..