As I leave Duluth behind and progress along US route 2, I set my mind to distance mode as I settle in for the next 5-6 hours. The temperature is decent and dry and, for some reason, I'm expecting it to remain this way. I'm feeling ok; confident that I have enough stamina for this next segment.

It's now eight o'clock. I may end up checking in a little late to either a motel or campsite, but what the heck. Having taken the decision to abort the trip, my energy is increasing somewhat and I’m now focused on returning home.

I'm thinking that no matter what happens, this ride has still been good. Even the leg from Wawa to Thunder Bay was good in its way. It's the type of ride that makes for memorable souvenirs down the road even if it is not the most enjoyable as it unfolds.

I'm also thinking that my gear has performed very well. My soft luggage has performed exceptionally well. It has remained utterly waterproof and has very little discernible effect on bike handling.

The ride is quite straightforward, with traffic diminishing as I progress eastward. However, by 10pm I'm riding through a hint of light drizzle. I'm not taking chances and stop for a minute to put on my rain shell. By 11pm I'm riding through heavier rain.

As I complete my second gas stop tonight, I notice that the attendant is carrying out closing procedures. It's just past 11pm. I ask her what the gas availability is along Rte 2 eastbound. As she keeps writing she says that there is no problem, that there should be gas in every small town along the way. Noting that she is closing, I then ask if they are open 24 hrs a day.

As she continues filling out some forms, she answers that they probably close at the same time that she does!! Now, I know I'm tired, but I do have the presence of mind to look at her and say, "So you mean to tell me that by the time that I get there they will be closed, right?" She looks up at me uncomfortably and mumbles something, as she realizes that she had not been paying attention.

As I walk back toward the bike, I notice an older gentleman leaning his back against his red Honda CR-V sport-utility. He is pumping gas and is staring at my bike. He has a kind of vacant grin on his face with his mouth partly open. I'm not sure if he's just trying to be friendly, wanting to chat, or simply lost in a daze.

Bruno
Montreal, Canada