While I was riding through Rabat, a soccer ball suddenly bounced out into the road right in front of my bicycle and I almost got hit by it! It was a good reminder that when you travel by bicycle, you have to pay attention to everything happening around you, even a soccer game on the side of the road.
A bicycle expedition involves a lot more than just riding. This week I have spent quite a bit of time checking and maintaining my bike. Each day I check the tires, brakes, gears, and other parts to make sure everything is working properly. I have already had a few small issues to deal with, including a loose tubeless tire valve and a bike bag that slipped down and started rubbing against my rear tire. Small problems are much easier to fix before they become big problems.
There are also all the normal chores of traveling, including laundry! I am carrying only a small amount of clothing because everything I bring has to fit on the bicycle. That means I regularly wash my cycling clothes by hand in the hotel sink or shower and hang them up to dry overnight. It is not very glamorous, but bike maintenance, washing clothes, organizing gear, charging electronics, and getting everything ready for the next morning are all part of life on an expedition.
