Its been a couple of years since i did this route, little has changed regarding the new road and bridges as the work looks to have stopped. The biggest change is the road to the first bombed bridge is now graded the whole way to N15.79074° E106.29054° after that its still much the same although obvious signs of forest clearing can be seen as you head north.
We had planned to stop in Phan or Xepon but decided to try and get some of the paved road out of the way and stop just outside of Seno on route 9.
Total distance 277km.
The graded first section (the boring bit).
Reaching the first bridge in quick time.
It was clear watching the iron buffalo crossing we needed to take the canoe.
Once past it started to get more interesting, not too much bull dust yet, but still deep sand to keep you on your toe’s.
Iron buffalo passing by, you can see the tree’s have been cleared (in most cases).
Some toys for the kid’s.
Deep sandy water crossing was fun.
More kids toys to give out.
So many broken down bridges yet to be replaced.
Biggest smile ever.
Nice straight sandy section.
Some shade at last, i recall last time it was the heat that caused me a problem, plus i ran out of fluids.
Pounce grabbing some much needed shade ahead.
This dry riverbed surface was lots of fun but hot.
Made it to the next bridge, but could not get to the ferry so a short back track to work our way to it.
Nicest house we had seen.
Trail to the ferry.
Back at the bridge.
Girls doing laundry no washing machine is these parts.
The new bridge, no change from a couple of years ago.
Our transport.
Once past the bridge its nicely graded, so you can push on pretty quick, although i had picked up a slow puncture so had to limp on to Phin.
Reached Phin at some shots of the downed helicopter.
Found a guy who would patch my tube.
Not sure what they are comparing here.
Street sellers hawking food to the buses coming from Vietnam.
A good days riding done, time for beers.
Some more shots of the day from my mate Pounce.
The second half of this would have to be the shittiest trail I have done in Laos, Kudos to Bob for doing it before the 1st half was upgraded & in 40 degree heat... mad bastard
Sometimes short legs are not your friend.
The cause of the puncture.
