Distance: 137.20 km
Ridetime: 7:40:03
Average: 17.9 km/h
Max speed: 51.3 km/h
Total distance: 15775 km
It had been my idea to ride on the main highway from Port Augusta to Adelaide but it turned out to be a bad idea. The trucks were now passing with more than 100 km/h and there was not much of a shoulder for bikes. I decided to look at the map for alternatives.
The fact that there are more roads to choose between is a whole new concept to me. On the map I quickly saw a much smaller road. It would mean that the distance to Adelaide became longer, but I thought it would be worth it.
After I had made the turn I actually didn’t enjoy the landscape much during the first half part of the day. It was raining, and I was feeling cold. The weather in this part of Australia is interesting. One day 43 degrees, the next 22 and rain.
Usually I love some climbs, but today my legs had felt tired right from the morning. The slow average speed is therefore not only a result of the wind being back in an unfortunate direction, but also a sign that I’m in need of a break. 15 days of cycling since Alice Springs and only 1 rest day. I hope to reach Adelaide tomorrow where I will stay with my friend Sasi for 3 or 4 days.
During the later part of the day the weather improved as I was entering the Clare Valley famous for it’s wine production. Suddenly I was very glad I had turned of the highway. This was good cycling indeed!
Once again I found a great spot to wild camp where I could enjoy the explosion of colors for the sunset.
Its not easy to see on the picture, but that is a kangaroo down there by the fence. It had been a long day and I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.