Jim's Ride Across America: Day 31 Newton, KS to Nickerson, KS

Yorktown, VA to Nickerson, KS Completed 1,811 miles

Biking Detail Newton, KS to Nickerson, KS

Day 31 Thursday, June 11

Left Newton about 7:45. Weather forecast not great today. Started out with light rain and heavier wind. Expected gusts to 25 MPH. First 15 miles not too bad. Thankfully the route seemed to skirt the rain portion. Took a break in Buhler, 30 miles into ride. Suffering today from some "saddle sores". Think my bike seat is relaxing some. Adjusted seat height a little yesterday. Plan to take a break in Buhler! Downtown is off the trail a little. Go to the Mustard Seed Deli for a great smoothie, espresso coffee, homemade cookies and great deli selection if looking for a meal. On Main Street just few blocks off the trail. Worth it!

Caution: There is a road closure on 82nd Ave going into Nickerson from the East. Stayed on 82nd until Monroe. Took Left on Monroe then a right on 56th. That takes you to 96 and take a right into Nickerson. Don't know length of time for closure no details and no detour signs to direct you. Friendly motorist directed us.

Wind kicked up to 26 MPH by 2:00 pm when we finished lunch in Nickerson. Decided to stay put for the night after two long previous days in the wind. Forecast shows winds at 9 MPH tomorrow, but favorable from the East, so hope that holds true. On our way back to the Hendricks B & B, our lodging for the night, we ran into Michael and Ludwig going W to E. Both from Bavaria, Germany. They must have run into Ed last night, who is now a day ahead of us, because they knew about our German companion through Pittsburg, Andreas.

Hope to reconnect with both Ed and Andreas in CO. Should be well rested for tomorrow with only 53 miles today. Not much for several miles so tomorrow will definitely be a longer day.