Chid-chid?

Does this count as Chid?

I do-do.

This photo fills my heart with joy.

Sorry scooters.

What an ordeal! I hope your day is better tomorrow.

Hi Andrea and Bruce,
FYI from an Bing search…According to a source, Shimano Alfine 11 speed hubs are known to seep oil out of the main seal. It is considered normal and can be wiped off periodically. If the seal is over-torqued, it will deform and leak. Another source suggests that the issue can be solved by changing the lubrication from oil to grease.
Enjoying your journal!
Dave

You know, the two-day boat between Luang Prabang and Chiang Khong is far more scenic and interesting. We recommend the upstream trip, fewer backpackers.

I used to refer to the traffic as ‘Brownian motion by mopeds’, but your bloodstream metaphor is more apt. These folks actually do get to their intended destination, eventually, smiling the whole time. Have to see it to believe it!

I love this story, Bruce. You are so aware of the small touches of grace and wonder that surround and interact with you.

Thank you, Lyle. This is our first experience with internal hubs so your words are super reassuring.

Probably not a big worry. Our Rohloff’s have always dripped some oil from time to time (most do). The internal’s are pretty well coated / lubricated and the Rohloff folks say it’s nothing to worry about, and we’ve never had a problem. I can’t think it would be much different for a Shimano hub.

On a completely different note, taking a boat, with our bikes on the roof, along the Mekong is on our dream list! Hopefully Cambodia is still a few levels quieter than the ever vibrant , but hectic, Vietnam.

Pedal on.

Yep, it’s a drag. The shop here has no experience with those so it has to wait for Thailand.

So I’m not going to sleep well now, worrying about your leaky hub. Yikes!

Good luck!

And you two behave too.