After a long day I finally pulled into the sprawling metropolis of Tosontsengel. There was a welcoming committee (see photo). Most of the day was fun riding, all dirt or track or steppe. I found fuel and topped up, needlessly really as I’m carrying enough to get me into Russia. The land is so barren though that running out isn’t an option.

I also topped up with water, filling everything I have. There are shops dotted around, even streams and rivers. I have water purification equipment so it’s not exactly survival. However, a breakdown or worse could turn the tables very quickly. I can carry 8.5 litres and it’s just enough really. Having company with alternate transport helps of course.

We were going great until the last 20k, when the track turned into deep sand. It’s really difficult to ride and my bike went down about a third of the way in. No damage, she’s a tough old girl and I’m pleased to report that sand is soft! Once you stop it’s harder to get going again, you need to get the front wheel up and planning. If there’s more soft sand the bikes will go down again, but it’s part of the adventure. It’s character building.

It’s also bollocks.