Stage 49: From Bandirma to Biga

From Bandirma, we had to overcome a small climb and deal with some wind. During the ride to Biga, I stuck to the main road, which was not very busy. As you get further away from Istanbul, the roads become less crowded and the ride on good asphalt goes smoothly.

About halfway through the journey, the announced rain started. It was time for a break at the next gas station to put on rain gear. I also got free tea at the opportunity (I have seen such stations at gas stations here more often). Of course, I stand out with my bicycle, two elderly gentlemen joined me for tea and talked to me in Turkish. With the help of Google Translate, we had a small conversation before continuing the journey towards Biga. With a straight road and rain that didn't stop all day, I was eventually glad to arrive at the hotel. I got a fairly large room for the equivalent of 10€ per night (including breakfast buffet) and considered whether I should get rid of the sleeping bag and tent.

Since a cold spell with strong winds and snow was announced for the next day, I took the opportunity for a rest day. Even though there wasn't much to see in Biga and the weather wasn't suitable for sightseeing, I really enjoyed the break! As I have probably been riding with the same bicycle chain for too long (including test rides in Germany), over 5000 kilometers, the chain occasionally jumps and cracks. In Biga, I visited a bicycle shop. The friendly owner didn't speak English, but understood my problem (thanks to Google). Unfortunately, he didn't have chains for 10 gears. As a kind gesture, he even called other stores in the area and contacted the manufacturer to check if chains for 8 gears would work. I bought an 8-gear chain as a backup (and because the man was so nice), but I wanted to try my luck in the next city, Canakkale.