13/01/2020
Left Chimbote and my main concern today was to take the Peruvian La Costanera. Riding with the Pacific Ocean hitting on cliffs can be one of the most relaxing experiences that could be out there. Nevertheless, the bug of getting closer to the border was itching in my neck.
Decided to test a loaded bike with “perfect for asphalt Pirelli tires” sounded like a recipe for disaster. And it went that way, it didn’t take long for me to finish buried in the sand. Stubborn to remove any luggage out of the bike, i made use of its power to leave the sands, and it worked out. Unfortunately i forgot to turn off the traction control feature and a Xmas tree started on the dashboard with some error messages all over. KTM managed to get this bike smart enough re-test everything and decide if continues with the messages or not.
I then passed by the “evitamiento” in Lima exactly when I didn’t want to, midday rush hour. Took me some time to get out of there and time was shortened to reach my today’s destination, any place as close to Camana as possible.
After having a quick lunch outside Lima, the Costanera called again to get the bike a second time buried in sand. Slow learner, maybe... but the temptation was just too big. This time to get it out wasn’t at all easy. Managed though and reached Ica. Tiredness took its toll, and after an early dinner, (i was starving), decided to stay here. IOverlander is simply amazing and candid with the ppls reviews. So found a place with it, for USD 10 near by a shopping mall with a bed and a shared shower. All I needed. Ecuador Bike Rental staff was paying attention to my moves to make sure that I was ok.