I think that must have been 37 pounds of gear, not counting the bike. Tents, sleeping bags, and pads were heavier back in those days. But no camera, electronics, etc. And I probably skimped on clothes, hygiene products, etc. ;-)

Only 37 pounds! That's amazingly light, especially for those days. I assume you meant 37 pounds of gear, plus the bike's weight, right? That's still extremely light. Enjoying the journal

Thanks for your kind words, Mark. There's no doubt that compared to today bicycle touring was a whole different deal back in the early 1980s, so maybe this is a piece of history. If so, I wish I'd done a better job keeping track of everything, and I wish I had a few snazzy photos. ;-)

Bill, I agree with Scott. This journal is a piece of history. Touring was so different back then, and even without pictures this was a fantastic read. Thanks for sharing.

Perhaps you could consider making an addendum with all of the notes you omitted (e.g. "lengthy notes about military history of WWII" above). I'm sure there are others besides me who would be interested.

... and if you do have it, I think readers of this post would love to see it. Perhaps a link, or uploading a picture of it? I'm very curious.

I'm enjoying the ride with you!

You’re wrong about no one caring but you, Bill. Great journal, great bit of history. Thanks for publishing it.

It's almost like this tour occurred in some century in the past, isn't it?

What is this "letter" thing you wrote?

I love the story about the print, Bill. Do you still have it?

We share the same regret. I still can’t believe I didn’t take a camera on my ride across the Great Plains 40+ years ago.