BIKE PREPARATION
And Some Relaxing Time
7th September - 12th September | 2023
The next morning we went to Christos's workshop. So nice to see him again!! We discussed what needs to be done externally on my bike (rear shock and tyres) and what the boys can do here.
We arranged the tyre exchange for Saturday morning (in 2 days) and then we will do the rest afterwards in the workshop. So we all drove off, following Christos, to motoRevolution (www.motorevolution.gr) to get my rear shock sorted. We explained the situation and left the bearings with them; the bearings TFX (www.tfxsuspension.com) told me I would need. Then I went with Christos 2up and James followed us to get the needed spare parts and fluids for maintaining my motorbike.
Back at Christos, we all went for lunch at a local Taberna. As I didn't need to drive I could have one, two or three beers ;-) We spent nearly all afternoon eating, drinking and talking. Christos wanted to go to the gym and we tried to get some shopping done. At about 19h00 we met again in the port area as we all met with Mahsa, another world traveller, and her friend Gerald. How great, we girls finally will meet as it didn't work out in the summer when I was in Athens. It was so fantastic to meet finally, even though we didn't have much time as they were catching a ferry to Crete. Mahsa is a real digital nomad, such an inspiration (IG: mahsa.homayounfar); I hope we will meet one day again on this planet :-D
The next morning we took it easy. I went to the centre to find a place where I could get a pedicure done. I was lucky to find a place that could even do me in about 2,5 hours. So I went to a nice cafe and asked James to meet me to get some shopping done. As it didn't look far, I walked, but forgot how hilly the area is! Finally, it was time to get the nails done :-D desperately after being 3 days in wet boots! As with all the rain and wearing leather gloves my hands were all black, the lovely owner of the shop didn't want me to leave without a manicure as well. Why not?
When I was ready, my bike was also ready. So we went 2up on James' bike to the motorbike shop. The owner kindly took some pictures, to show us that there are no bearings needed for the rear shock. What?!? How is that possible if TFX told me exactly what I will need?!? James was not very convinced of that. However, it's too late now as the bike is already put back together! At least they greased everything including the swingarm bearings. So, of course, no squeaking or clicking noise during the test ride.
From there we went directly to Nikos restaurant as there was a book launching party - a bikers party ;-) We had a lot of fun, good food and great rock live music!!
The next morning we first got the new tires fitted. This time I will try the Mitas E07 Dakar version as these tires seem to last forever. I love the Michelin Anakee Wild, but due to the new compounding they must use, they only last me about 12000km and I need a bit more as travelling on a budget. Once the tires were fitted we met with Christos at his garage to get the remaining jobs done on my bike, like changing the rear brake discs, pads and oil, oil exchange and a Voltmeter with USB charger among little jobs. James and Christos discussed the bearing situation of my rear shock as James is pretty convinced the bearings are behind the seals (and they are after the weekend confirmed by TFX!). However, there is nothing I can do now, as the bike is put back together, but with the next service, it needs to be fixed, unless it gets worse before. So I took the bearings with me.
After my bike was ready, it was time to say goodbye to Christos, as I would not see him (for a while). I am so happy that I met this generous and helpful man!! He has helped me so incredibly much since we met the first time. Thank you so much Christos!!!
The next morning, James took me early to the airport, on his last drop of fuel ;-) It was so sad, to say goodbye after the 3 months of travelling together, being 24/7 together. And it will be another 3 months now until we will be reunited again.
The next stage of my adventure is an exploration of the Middle East. Sadly, since beginning this leg, the political situation at the port of entry, Palestine and Israel, has changed dramatically. Out of respect for those affected, I will postpone publishing my next blog until a later date and will resume once I enter Jordan. Thank you for understanding and, instead of having a drink whilst you wait for the next instalment, please light a candle in memory of all those who have tragically lost their lives and pray for peace.
Places | Cities:
Piraeus, Athens.
Driven km | Trip:
Total | Steffi: 21625 km
Information Border Crossings:
GREECE Lavrios port for motorbike:
Shipping-related documentation, bike key and bike documents.
GREECE airport:
Identity card or passport (and of course, ticket).
Maintenance | Breakdown:
New tires (Mitas E07 Dakar).
New rear brake disc, pads and fluid.
Oil exchange, air filter exchange and installing a new USB charging system for my phones.
Health issues:
./.
Special thanks to:
Christos helping ALL the time to keep my bike on the road.