Confidence

After a good run of only about 60 miles at the weekend on the KTM with Oli. It didn't break down, despite my servicing attempts.

I think the biggest problem with having studied engineering is my innate ability to wonder whether mechanical items are running at their optimum or are wearing or under too much stress. Even though the KTM vibrates like you're being humped by a bear, it rides pretty sweetly with enough grunt to keep up with most other bikes on the road. I now have renewed confidence about getting at least to Turkey before my next scheduled service stop.

Everything is slowly coming together, my Carnet de Passage en Douane has been applied for, my Iranian visa has been applied for. I have a couple of travel insurance quotes which will even cover me for riding a bike in case I get appendicitis in the middle of Bagdhad! I've just written my notice for work. I've cancelled my mobile contract. I have all the spares and tools I can conceivably think of and fit into the panniers. I need a few extra camping bits and then I'm good to go.... roll on exam results and graduation!