October 5th
139km (2,447m vertical)
Although not related to this trip, I need to highlight that two of my best friends married each other today. Since I could not attend the celebrations in person, the least I can do is mention it here. Congratulations Ryan and Jenn!
Really tough day today. Brutal cross-winds hammered us and the road sloped gently, but consistently upwards. We were in the saddle for 9.5 hours! Although none of the climbing was overly tough, we climbed more today than we have since Turkey! (Although my altimeter may have been confused by the wind.)
The wind was the real villain anyways, making the ride frustratingly slow and very dangerous. Every time a large truck passed, it would suck us violently into the road and then throw us back onto the shoulder. It was even tough to just stand on the shoulder without blowing over, and my hands ached from keeping such a tight grip on my handlebars.
Desert scenery was dull all morning, but steeper climbing through some rocky passes made the afternoon more interesting. There were dozens of wild camels wandering around the desert as well, which always fascinates me.
Another rocky, windy camp today so loaded down my tent with big rocks again.
Didn't take many photos today, but everything looked a lot like this:
The Chinese really know how to pack a truck full:
Clive going down the only descent of the day:
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