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| Another flat |
I was hoping to get an early start this morning.
But as I was getting on my fully loaded bike at the El Cosmico RV park in Marfa, TX, at 9 am, I noticed my rear tire was soft.
A few moments later, I found the steel wire poking through the sidewall.
Bummer!
But at least I noticed the flat before I was out on the highway.
There was a nice shady spot on the patio by the El Cosmico front office to fix the flat.
I also appreciated the fact that I would have access to a restroom so I could wash the grease off my hands before I had to get on the bike.
What I didn’t appreciate was that this was my second flat during this tour on supposedly flat-proof Schwalbe Marathon Plus Tires.
I’ve only got 3,500 miles on this set of tires, and I have gotten more than 5,000 miles on the same tires in the past. But the abnormally dirty road shoulders and chip-seal pavement on this route may have worn these tires out sooner than usual. At any rate, I will replace them in Austin.
Once I finally did get on the road, I enjoyed a very pleasant ride. The tailwind made the going particularly easy.
I am glad I stayed at El Cosmico. There was green grass in the tent site area. I slept great, and I enjoyed the cool vibe. But, no, I did not join in on the hot tub parties.
The Marathon Motel and RV Park, where I am staying tonight, is also very nice. It’s in a special dark area that is particularly well-suited for stargazing. If I can keep my eyes open, I’ll take a peek.
On these tours, however, I usually fall asleep as soon as it gets dark. It’s basically: Eat, sleep and ride.
DM: 57.8; TN: 1,261.4; 10.7 mph avg spd; 1,347 ft climbing
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| Marfa lights viewing area plaque |
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| Marfa lights viewing area |
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| Paisano Peak near Alpine TX |
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| Marathon Motel and RV Park |
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| Motel courtyard |
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| RV park dark sky stargazing area |
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| My campsite |
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