The Alaska Highway is significantly wider and better paved than the Cassiar. There is a much more traffic and it moves much faster. Now there are large numbers of mobile homes, many dragging small vehicles. Today was a race with Rubber and Father Time. Gradually my rear tire was wearing down. I had to make the Honda dealer in Whitehorse by three pm if I wanted my tires installed today. So pray and push as they say. Not much scenic photography as I struggled to keep going through the graveled construction sections hoping the sharp stones wouldn't puncture me.

The gorgeous mix of lakes, forest, marshlands and high mountains with patches of snow looked better than usual in the early morning . The highway follows the Rancheria river for a long while, then crosses the Teslin Lake on the longest and scariest bridge of the journey. This particular bridge is built with a metal mesh platform which makes snow removal easier in winter, but causes heart failure to motorcyclists. If one makes it over, there is gas and hot coffee waiting.

As you must have guessed, I made it to the tire dealer without mishap. With characteristic Canadian kindness they took me in immediately, found the one tire which I needed, and changed it while I grabbed a bite to eat. I love Whitehorse. The bike feels whole now, and ready for another long jaunt.

I then drove into town and found my hotel on Main Street. When I walked in it was all I could do not to yell out: "Basil !! Ze room is in ze building !! Manuel ! I learn it from a book ! " It was Faulty Towers in all its glory, with the Moose hanging from the wall, and the British military man beneath it. Somehow I am not sure the managers of the Gold Rush Best Western would have understood.