MITM 2015 – Day 2

I got up, grabbed some breakfast, and packed the bike up. I’m definitely missing the Tour-Pak, and will be adding one as soon as funds permit. But the removable saddlebag liners really did help out. I topped off the tank and got back on I-44, heading north and east towards Illinois. The ride was pretty uneventful, and still warm, though I don’t think that’s going to last.

I stopped for lunch at Missouri Hick BBQ in Cuba, MO, a place we’ve eaten at before. If you’re in the area, you really should stop by. Their sloped, gravel parking lot was the first real challenge of the trip. I was really worried that I’d drop the bike while backing it down in to a parking spot. Thankfully it stayed upright, and I enjoyed some great brisket while my adrenaline level returned to normal. Another splash of fuel and I’m back on the highway, heading for the party.

Not much to report for the rest of the ride. The bike ran well, and I’m even getting used to having real cruise control, which is a wonderful thing.

I pulled in to the farm in the late afternoon, got caught up with some really good friends, got my tent pitched, and unloaded the bike. After that it was time for some beer and dinner and then time around the camp fire. The weather’s definitely gotten cooler, and they’ve forecast lows in the 40s. I’ll be fine sleeping, but I’m heading to Peoria to see Reese tomorrow. I’m thinking that’s going to be a cold ride. But it’ll be worth every bit of it.