Season 6. Episode 10. Puglia Positives and Pitfalls.
October 10, 2026. Bari to Torre Canne, Italy. 47 miles. 787’ climb. (Flat) Once disembarked from the ferry in Bari, we went to the bike store. I emailed with the mechanic Michael days prior confirming they were open for minor repairs. And for me to buy a new helmet. S ign says they are closed. As they say, the best laid plans… While riding in Bari and passing stylish storefronts, it hit me what a time warp we’d been in when in Albania. It’s as if in Albania we’d traveled back in time in fashion styles. I realized even the mannequins in Albania were dated. In Bari, I also saw women wearing athleisure, though not knowing if tourists or locals. This style, ubiquitous in American cities, is something I hadn’t seen in weeks. We had a short coastal ride planned. I commented to Heather that it looks like we can relax this afternoon. Half an hour later, we hit a snag. Anytime we think or express that things are good, it’s like a jinx. T hat short ride quickly became long...
