I can’t precisely recall how many times I paused to make a decision—perhaps around four times. However, this instance was distinct. I was faced with a snowfield that could be crossed but not before nightfall. In previous situations, glimpses of land ahead fueled my hope to push further, tempting me each time. Plus, I was riding Gonzo, my trusty adventure bike, known for its agility and readiness for an all-night traverse over Flathead Pass. This time, though, my intuition urged a retreat, and I heeded its call, turning back towards home.
The journey home was neither short nor effortless. Having traveled 35 miles aided by a robust wind gusting from 40 to 60 mph, the return promised to demand twice the effort. Yet, retreating was the only sensible option.
Seizing a moment’s respite from the relentless wind, I took the opportunity to acquaint myself with my new camera. This gadget excites me, despite its size disadvantage compared to its predecessor. However, the quality of the photographs it captures and the array of tools it offers for artistic expression far outweigh its bulkiness. True, its size renders it impractical for certain races and lighter adventures, but it’s significantly more compact than the cumbersome DSLR I previously owned. Thankfully, it still fits in a jersey pocket.
Armed with a bike capable of reaching Mexico and a camera that, while not minuscule, doesn’t overly encumber, it’s clear there are many more adventures on the horizon.
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