Turns out the Metzlers I ordered late on Monday didn't get processed until Tuesday, and then they were out of stock on one of them, and so they weren't shipped until yesterday. Soooooo, no tires until next Monday, which means no riding this weekend. Very sad for me. I ordered from Southwest Moto Tires, and yesterday I wrote them to inqure about the order. I guess my email was a little too formal and I must have sounded like I was complaining, because their reply was perhaps a bit too confrontational for my taste. That said, their prices are great, and the folks on the forums I read have been extremely satisfied with their service, so I'm not going to worry about it.

I've also got a ScottOiler in the mail. I've heard really good things about this particular automatic chain-lubing device in terms of prolonging chain life, and it looks relatively easy to install. Anything that will make my upcoming trip easier would be great, and not having to lube the chain after every day of riding will be nice.

I guess (if everything goes to plan) that I'll be able to ride again next Wednesday, at the earliest...