So I headed out of the Fortress and back to the main road. I thought to go to Dubna, it wasn't far only 10km, Then I thought maybe just go to Ternopil, about 100km. Ternopil is a bigger city maybe its the best choice.
As I got to the main road there were to motorcyclists turning off onto the path I was on. They stopped to ask if this was the way to the Fortress. I said ya its here then asked if they knew anyplace I could go to use a jack so I could take the front wheel off to fix the fork.
We talked for a bit then decided I would go with them to the Fortress quickly then they would help me find a place to fix the bike.
So back to the Fortress I went!
This is Sergey
This is Taras
After the Fortress we drove to Dubna first since its closer. We saw a guy relaxing with a scooter so we stopped and asked him if he knew of a place, it was Sunday evening at this point so it seemed a long shot.
He told us of a guy that could help so we pulled into this guys drive. He comes out completely drunk but assures us it can be fixed. I keep saying I have the tools I just need to lift the front of the bike.
He has 2 jacks from cars so we placed on under each side of the frame and lifted the front of the bike that way.
Taras held the bike steady while we went
Then I realized I didnt have a 19mm allen key to take the front axle out. The guy had a bucket of bolts so I dug through it until I found one with a 19mm head on it and used that instead of an allen wrench.
I got the axle out and was able to tighten the bolt int he bottom of the fork so it would stop leaking and we were done, record time at that! We put it back together and I asked the guy how much I owed him.He said 50 greiven but before I could get my wallet out Sergey already had the money in his hand. I begged no no I will pay but Sergey wouldnt be denied. So he paid and we left all headed for Ternopil, where they were from
We got to Ternopil just as it started raining. The guys helped me find a hotel and said they would be back in about 2 hours and we would go out to get pizza and beer. So I showered then came down to the lobby to use their wifi.
There just happen to be a birthday party going on. I was told to park my bike near the door when we arrived so when people went to smoke they stood near the bike. People became curious and so we started talking. Next thing I know I am at their birthday party downing one vodka after another.
Finally after 4, rather large, shots they told me it was my time to give a toast. WHAT!!!! Everyone spoke Ukrainian, of course they spoke Russian to me but all conversation amongst themselves was Ukrainian.
Дякую- Thanks
Будь ласка- Your Welcome
до побачення- Good bye
БУДМА- Cheers!
I hoped this would be enough for a toast but was told more! so I came out with the best I had
прощай разум, встретимся завтра!- Good by mind, We will meet tomorrow!
That got a thunderous applause and we all downed the vodka.
Thankfully about this time Taras, Sergey and Sergey's wife showed up to rescue me. We all jumped in a cab and headed down town to eat pizza and beer!
We were out for a good long while then after, I think, 4 beers we called it a night and I went home. Not being allowed to pay for anything. We promised at some point they would come to Kiev and I could take them to dinner there.
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