Third World War didn’t happen….but….

Saturday 31st August 2024. Stop the World Day.

Brno to Brno – 40km.

How did last night go? Well, I would put down as an experience but not an enjoyable one. It was cold, damp and the bed was solid. I would have been pleased if nuclear war had occurred! Needless to say, I didn’t get much sleep….but looking on the bright side the Third Word War didn’t happen. I was up before 7am for a good start and tucked into my provisions for breakfast. I was on the road before 7.30am. All good so far.

This was a lake made by the river Svradka just outside Brno. I followed the river west of the city. It was a beautiful morning and all was good with the world.

After about 20km my rear gears slipped into the toughest gear and wouldn’t budge. I diagnosed that the right side handlebar shifter was (technical term) knackered….and I was stuck in the worst gear possible. Not good….and on a Saturday too when bike shops don’t employ mechanics! I know this from previous experience.

A nice Czech cyclist stopped. He had been to Reading University, so his English was perfect. He suggested the nearest bike shop back in Brno but couldn’t get an answer on the phone. I managed to crawl back to the city and found the bike shop closed for the weekend, that’s why they didn’t answer the phone. I found another that was open but with no mechanic and no parts and then third shop that had the replacement part but no mechanic either.

Who do you call when you have a ‘mechanical’ problem….not Ghostbusters but….my mate Andy. Thankfully he helped me talk through the options which included fixing it in an easier gear or taking a gear shifter from a mountain bike. I remembered it was Stop the World Day and I thought “how apt”, I wanted to get off. At the second shop I was looking at having to stay in Brno till Thursday to get a part delivered….not what I wanted on a trip where I move on every day. Andy was a star, he gave me a few tips to fit the shifter. I owe him a beer or two or three.

There was nothing for it….I had to try and fit the new handlebar shifter myself. It involved taking the other one off, disconnecting the gear cable to the back wheel and the brake cable to the front wheel. Taking off the handlebar tape and refitting everything. Despite many reservations, I did it in an hour and a half. I needed to borrow some wire cutters from the shop but it all seemed to work. I won’t tell you how much it cost.

I cancelled my accommodation for the next two nights and went back into Brno to get new accommodation. As a treat, I’ve moved up market! I deserve it.

So, the World doesn’t need to stop. It should be World, Putting the Wheel Back on Day!

As I am staying an extra night I need another interesting thing to tell you about Brno. During the 30 Years War against Sweden, the Swedish General boasted to all his army camped outside Brno that if he didn’t conquer the city by 12 noon he would walk away. However, the clever defenders heard the announcement and rang the 12 noon clock tower bells an hour early and the Swedish Army turned and retreated! I don’t suppose they had a wrist watch to check.

I had another stroll around the city. I don’t seem to striking up too many conversations with locals. Maybe it’s a language difficulty? I have learned Ahoj (Hello), Prosim (Please) and Dekuji (Thanks) so it can’t be that….I know….it must be the hat!

Early to bed tonight in a bit of comfort. Sounds good.