It was meant to be the first trip which was planned properly. Instead I had to battle a few last-minute issue with bike, gear and so on, but I am now just about to head off. I am writing this at 5.28 am in the morning after 3 hours sleep, but at least I am only one hour behind schedule, which I am able to regain on the road. The saddle bad is packed with ultra-light gear thanks to Montane, how have been amazing and provided me with exactly what I needed: a pair of shorts and a long sleeve for the evenings, the world’s lightest waterproof jacket & the world’s lightest windproof gilet, a sportwool base layer and a light fleece. Unfortunately the fleece was too big to fit in a 2.7 litre saddle bag, but will be tested once I am back in bonnie Scotland. All rounded up by socks with the Saltire on them, to show respect to this beautiful country I am living in. So, I am on the road again now, and should be in Germany Sunday night already. And last bot not least: This a ‘hell on wheels’ for a good cause, please spare a few pennies here to support Re-cycle and BENN: http://www.justgiving.com/markusstitz