I was up and packing in the dark at 5.50. By 7.00 we had eaten breakfast and the bike was loaded and ready. I pressed the starter and .....nothing !! Well I wished to god I had fitted the more expensive BMW battery. I unbolted the side panel and gave the earth connector a bit of a "tweak" and hey presto it started. We pulled of the site at 8.00, so much for the early start.
It was surprisingly cooler this morning and by the time we reached the border forty minutes later we were both cold enough to have to put warmer gear on and we thought Turkey would be hot,
Sailed through customs, no problem , paid the 30 euro for visa's and we were in!
Weather stayed dull and windy until just outside of Istanbul when the sun came back out. The traffic was busy and everyone appeared to drive any way they wanted. It was fun but I've ridden in much more challenging situations.
The satnav only shows major roads in Turkey but I had plotted the locations of a couple of Hotels that welcomed bikers. By 2.00 we had found the Angel Home Hotel. Run by a Turkish biker who owns a fully loaded Gold Wing, which he leaves outside so I thought if his bikes OK then ours should be.
The hotel is right in the centre of the old city, a stones throw from the Blue Mosque and easy walking to everything else we have planned to see so we booked in. It pricey but you pay for the location I guess.
We unpacked, showered and went out and about looking for food. We ate at a local restaurant then had a quick look around before getting back for an early night , tomorrow is going to be busy.
As I write this the sound of the evening call to prayer echoes around the city as if to confirm that we are a long way from home.
Miles today - a piss easy 204 !!
Hours in saddle 5
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