Day 18 (10/6)

When I met touring cyclist Theo back on day 14, he gave me a stern warning about the dangers of cycling through Tulsa. He even advised me to get a lift through the city.  This had been in the back of my mind ever since.  Well today was the day that I faced the beast.  I did take one precaution: I waited until rush hour was over before starting out.

I rode 11th Street through the city and had no problems whatsoever, other than having to bunny-hop a few storm grates. Traffic was moderate and I had plenty of space.  What a relief!  Theo apparently was referring to a section of road north of Tulsa that I had ridden the day prior.  It was sheer terror.

I had a good morning on the bike, but the afternoon was heat, hills, and headwinds. Somehow I was able to grind out 70 miles and made it to Stroud.  Tomorrow I will reach Oklahoma City.

I met the photographer for the Route 66 Bike Race, Erik Mathy at the motel.  The race is still on, despite the casualties, he said. The  racers are widely spread out on R66.

Riding into Tulsa

Rock Cafe 1939 " The Pride of Stroud" 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Headquarters for the night. Great sign!

 Photographer Eric Mathy