We finished the Cape rides today, which also marks the point in time where Jonathan has accomplished his objectives for the trip. His hand has developed numbness so he has decided to return to Kingston. By the time he returns, he will have travelled 3,500 km - not bad for seventh time septuagenerian.
The ride completed the Cabot trail and we took the ferry back to hwy 105. The weather was sunny and warming for most of the ride to Canso canal (that is where the cape joins the mainland). We hit a bit of fog on the last mountain serpentine road, and had a double bummer because we followed a transport truck down the hill. So, it was slow/brakes on all the way. Actually, there was a learning experience - the truck took up both lanes in each turn, similar to what you can see on some of the tail of the dragon videos. An aggressive motor cyclist or cager would be in for a big surprise if they met up with that going up or down the hill.
We decided to make a dash for Moncton. For Mike, it was a chance to see if he could convince the BMW dealer to find a slot over the next few days to perform the 10K service and install a new rear tire, and for Jonathan, it was the jumping point back to Kingston.
The weather traded wind for rain. When we crossed water, whitecaps told us the winds were at least force 6. Jonathan estimates that crossing the flats, winds were gusting to force 7 - 30 knots (31 to 38 mph). The bikes looked funny leaning heavily to counteract the wind and every time a truck passed us, we would wobble to counteract the change in wind plus the dirty air coming off the trucks. At times like these, it would be nice to trade the light weight touring bikes for a big fat Harley or a fully faired full touring bike. We survived with a bit of stress.
The Atlantic BMW dealer is a BIG disappointment. BMW really emphasizes that the GS bikes are THE Adventure bike, but apparently, when you are actively adventuring, you need to make service appointments 2 weeks in advance. Interesting challenge since one can't predict where one will be based on weather, road condition etc. Adventuring is unpredictable. Julie tried to make an appointment earlier in the week but couldn't give then a day, so they did nothing. When I arrived, long story short, one week from now was the best they could do.
In their defence, BMW only lets certified technicians work on the machines, and those are rare. There is even a shortage in Toronto, and my dealer is booking regular service into third week July, but, for certain conditions i.e. my bike, he will find an opening. Atlantic BMW could have found that opening if they tried.
I called my dealer and Cray (the Motorrad guy) advised me to ride it, be safe and have fun. No worries if I bring it back with 15K km. The tire is still a few mm above the wear bar, so I'll ride carefully and it will be bald when I return.
Jonathan was tired so we took a room in the same Comfort Inn from day 2, had a home cooked meal at Jean's (again), short walk and called it a day. Drove 529 km.
Tomorrow, Jonathan starts his return to Kingston an I'm off to Charlottetown to travel PEI. My cousin's daughter lives in Dartmouth but is spending the week end in PEI so I may try to catch up with her.
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