Episodi
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Iâll admit, Iâve been bikepacking curious for a while. As my touring continues to expand and evolve Iâm thinking more about bikepacking options and I thought Iâd share the process on the pod. Join me, wonât you? Originally podcast January 28, 2021.
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A repodcast of Pedalshift Live from December 6, 2024 featuring special guest Mysterious James and YOUR questions for a big round of Ask Us Anything. Huge shoutout to the folks that came and made this one of the best live shows yet!
1. Top 3 Must-Have Items for Bike Touring
⢠James: Once considered a cook set essential but now tours stoveless. Values minimal gear and adaptability.
⢠Tim: iPhone (multi-use tool), foldable backjack chair, and positive vibes for motivation.
2. Best Place for Car-Free Living with Transit and Nature Access
⢠James: San Francisco for its bikeability, walkability, and access to nature in all directions.
⢠Tim: Portland, Oregon, for its bike-friendly culture, infrastructure, and scenic options for bike tours.
3. Trail Recommendations
⢠Greenbrier River Trail (WV): Tim considers it for future e-bike touring despite challenging accessibility and trail conditions.
⢠Pine Creek Trail (PA): Known but less explored by Tim and James.
⢠Cowboy Trail (NE): On Timâs radar, but accessibility challenges persist.
4. Approach to Bike Adventuring
⢠James: Minimal planning, go-with-the-flow mindset, and preference for off-road routes.
⢠Tim: Focuses on enjoying the experience rather than completing every mile, with flexibility to adapt plans as needed.
5. East Coast Greenway
⢠Highlighted as a potential cross-country ride option. Discussed challenges with camping and infrastructure but praised for its connectivity.
6. Tire Preferences
⢠James: Schwalbe Marathon and Mondial tires for durability and versatility.
⢠Tim: A long-time fan of Schwalbe tires for touring and e-bike use.
7. Mud Guards vs. No Mud Guards
⢠James: Initially used mud guards but removed them due to travel difficulties and now prefers to ride without them.
⢠Tim: Appreciates their value but acknowledges challenges with mud accumulation on trails like the C&O.
8. Motivation on Long Rides or in Bad Weather
⢠James: Allows trips to end naturally when motivation fades, embracing the experience regardless of completion.
⢠Tim: Stays motivated by focusing on the overall experience and prioritizing safety, especially in adverse weather.
9. Warm Showers Experience
⢠James: Prefers camping or hotels due to flexibility and introversion.
⢠Tim: Values the concept but hasnât fully embraced it due to similar concerns.
10. Cross-Country U.S. Route Priorities
⢠James: Interested in rail trail-based routes for safety and scenery.
⢠Tim: Eastern Express and routes through national parks like the Lewis and Clark Trail.
11. Cycling Southeast Asia
⢠James: Enthralled by Cambodiaâs culture and affordability but wary of heat, rain, and traffic.
⢠Tim: Intrigued but cautious about climate and road conditions.
12. Cycling Quebec
⢠Tim: Keen to explore Quebecâs Route Verte and its cultural richness, possibly linking it to U.S. rail trails for a larger tour.
13. Gap and C&O: Pittsburgh to DC vs. DC to Pittsburgh
⢠Tim: Initially preferred Cumberland-to-Pittsburgh for the downhill experience but now considers both routes equally, emphasizing convenience based on starting point.
14. Bikepacking Regions to Highlight in a U.S. Cross-Country Tour
⢠Must-see trails include the Great American Rail Trail, Katy Trail, and Northern Tierâs scenic sections.
Special Mentions: Regina Yan (East Coast Greenway), Adventure Cycling Association (route inspiration), and Schwalbe Tires (consistent performance).
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Episodi mancanti?
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Back from North Dakota and the bike-adjacent adventures with national parks, bison and Bromptons... I've got some takeaways to share!
Housekeeping
Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course itâll be the pod for the next week if you canât make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.
Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!
Takeaways
Folks, North Dakota is worth the trip!
When checking a bike, pay attention to all the vulnerable parts that jut out and donât shirk the corner padding
Wild bison are worth seeing in person, but donât expect them to get out of your way
TR NP is an excellent place to bike, but be aware that bison can and do come into the roadway and might scuttle your riding plans
The northern tier route is a good place if you want solitude
Bike adventures can mean a lot of things
Our national parks are treasures worth protecting, but so are our state parks and other public lands
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The final day of the NoDak adventure (finally?) explored the beauty of Medora, North Dakota, on bike, reflecting on the unique experience of cycling the Northern Tier Route. Beautiful views of TR NP, offbeat historical tidbits and some reflections and "what ifs" that prevented me from getting there earlier⌠all part of the adventure!
Housekeeping
Weâre shifting the schedule around a bit here as we close out the year⌠weâre going to delay the final best of for 2024 so we can go straight through to finish the NoDak Adventure with no interruptions. But alsoâŚ
Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course itâll be the pod for the following week if you canât make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.
Best of will be the week of the 19th, then you Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!
Highlights:
⢠Cycling the Northern Tier Route:
⢠A ride along the official Northern Tier Route through Medora, including scenic stops by the Little Missouri River and the Medora campground.
⢠Observations on the routeâs history and recent adjustments due to safety concerns in northern North Dakota.
⢠Historical Nuggets: The tale of William Riley Luffy and a historic gunfight near the Little Missouri River.
⢠Wildlife and Natural Beauty: Reflections on bison herds, prairie dog cities, and the stark beauty of the Badlands.
⢠Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
⢠Exploring the charming Wild West vibes of Medora and its support for cyclists.
⢠Insights on Theodore Rooseveltâs complex legacy and the transformative power of the landscapes that inspired him.
⢠Personal Reflections:
⢠The joys and challenges of biking in cold weather.
⢠Thoughts on the unique beauty of oft-overlooked places like North Dakota.
Takeaways:
⢠Cycling Lessons: Even short rides can offer profound connections to the landscapes and communities you explore.
⢠Travel Wisdom: Embrace the unexpected, whether itâs historical surprises or the realization that your bike can take you farther than you think.
⢠Gratitude for Adventure: Recognizing the privilege of discovering new places and bringing listeners along for the journey.
Resources:
⢠Plan your Northern Tier adventure with the Adventure Cycling Association.
⢠Discover Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park on the official websites and NPS site.
Statistics
Miles biked 5
Cyclist encounters 1
Cowboy themed museums and shops in Medora 5
Flats 0
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A frosty start leads to adventure, navigating through Theodore Roosevelt National Park! From a sub-freezing camping morning to a literal standoff with a bison, listen in as we explore the unique challenges and rewards of fall adventures in one of North Dakotaâs most scenic landscapes.
Housekeeping
Weâre shifting the schedule around a bit here as we close out the year⌠weâre going to delay the final best of for 2024 so we can go straight through to finish the NoDak Adventure with no interruptions. But alsoâŚ
Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course itâll be the pod for the following week if you canât make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.
Best of will be the week of the 19th, then you Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!
Folks, heads up this episode contains zero biking, but the next one does as temps eventually warmed up. And as youâll hear⌠probably for the best it was too cold, because one particular TR NP resident was not interested in yielding to any of usâŚ.
Highlights:
⢠Cold Camping Realities: Waking up to 31°F in a frosty tent, layering up for warmth, and reflecting on the joys and challenges of camping in such conditions.
⢠Wildlife Encounters:
⢠Visits to âprairie dog citiesâ and observing their fascinating social behaviors.
⢠Sightings of deer, jackrabbits, and a variety of birds, including a mysterious pheasant-like species.
⢠A memorable standoff with âGandalf,â a bison blocking the road for over 30 minutes.
⢠Reflections on Theodore Roosevelt: Insights into the history and legacy of TRâs connection to the park, alongside a discussion of his mixed-bag of a legacy.
⢠Midwestern to Western Transition: Observations on how North Dakotaâs geography and culture bridge the Midwest and the West.
⢠Prairie Dog City Philosophy: The ecological role of prairie dogs and their perception as pests versus vital contributors to their ecosystem.
Takeaways:
⢠Gear Tips for Winter Camping: Always pack gloves and insulated footwear to keep extremities warm.
⢠Embracing Flexibility: Knowing when to pivot plans, like transitioning from biking to exploring by vehicle when temperatures and wildlife dictate.
⢠Respecting Wildlife: Acknowledging the park as the animalsâ home and adapting to their presence rather than forcing interactions.
Resources:
⢠Visit the official Theodore Roosevelt National Park website for information about visiting this stunning location.
⢠Learn more about the Northern Tier Trail here.
Statistics
Morning temp range 21-32 F
Percent of "loop" covered 40
Lord of the Rings wildlife namings 1
Prairie Dog sightings 18 bazillion
Flats 0
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Starting from Fargo and driving clear across North Dakota, I had little to prepare me for what awaited on the western edge of the state. But would I see the bison that I low key really wanted to see, and would some discovered damage on the Brompton scuttle the bikey part of this bike adjacent adventure?
HousekeepingWeâre shifting the schedule around a bit here as we close out the year⌠weâre going to delay the final best of for 2024 so we can go straight through to finish the NoDak Adventure with no interruptions. But alsoâŚ
Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course itâll be the pod for the following week if you canât make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.
Best of will be the week of the 19th, then you Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!
NoDak Northern Tier Adventure Part 2Driving North Dakota Adventures
- Reflections on the landscape: vastness, agriculture, and wildlife sightings along the drive
- Observations on North Dakotaâs scenic beauty, especially during fall
- Jamestown Buffalo Museum mention and the fascination with the changing golden hues of the farmlands
Arrival in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Excitement for the parkâs wilderness, iconic buffalo herd, and camping at Cottonwood Campground
- Insight into campground conditions: first-come, first-served, no water or services, and gear preparations
- Planning for a night in the chilly North Dakota weather
Camping and Wildlife Encounters
- Capturing buffalo sightings, exploring the park, and photographing the scenic Badlands
- Cycling experiences within the campground and nearby closed loops, including brief cycling issues
- Observations on the local flora, geology, and prairie dog sightings
Unexpected Gear Lessons and Camping Essentials
- Discussing travel gear logistics: food, fuel, and camping supplies for a no-service campground
- Bike challenges: saddle issues and minor damages to bike parts during transport
- Lessons learned for future trips, particularly with bike handling and protection
Biking and Buffalo Close Encounters
- Memorable encounters with buffalo while biking, and the unique thrill of seeing them up close
- Reflection on safety tips and maintaining distance with wildlife while biking
- Experience of witnessing prairie dogs and other local fauna in their natural habitat
Wrapping up the Day and Reflections
- Preparing for a chilly night with layered gear and warming up with hot food and drinks
- Reflections on the uniqueness of North Dakotaâs landscapes and the satisfaction of fully exploring the area
- Plans for a cold morning bike ride, additional wildlife sightings, and beginning the drive back to Fargo
Statisitics
Miles driven 333
Bison sightings 1 herd, 1 lone, um, wolf
Bashed Brompton rack tires 1
Impending temperature drop - 34 degrees F, 19 degrees C
Lighters forgotten, and subsequently purchased 1
Flats 0
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On this episode, we start the long journey to bike in the badlands of North Dakota⌠it turns out, perhaps the biggest reason I havenât had a chance to visit North Dakota before is because it is tucked out of the way in the US northern plains. Maybe its remote nature is a part of its draw? Its largest city of Fargo is the gateway to the adventure⌠would it surprise me from the start?
NoDak Northern Tier Adventure Part 1Statisitics
Miles driven 249
Miles biked 0
States visited 49
Number of campers in camp 1
Number of bikes in camp 1 (Mine!)
Dashed expectations for a cowboy bar because Fargo is way more of a city than I expected and really thatâs my own fault because I should have done a minimal amount of research into the vibrant community that Fargo clearly is, and for that Iâm a bad podcaster and Iâm sorry? Wait⌠is there a number here? 9!
Flats 0
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Iâm going to North Dakota and I am unreasonably excited about it! For years I have been stuck at 48 states visited (and for real, not just airport states) BUT the final two were ND and Alaska, and no disrespect to North Dakota but Alaska needs to be my 50th. But the opportunity to get there was shattered ten years ago when my original ride on the Northern Tier route was scuttled by a heat wave I wasnât interested in riding through. But now⌠Iâm doing it. With a bike. And buffaloes.
The Adventure
Heavily car aided. Very heavily. Like, mostly.
Starting and ending in MSP (there for a work thing)
All camping
Brompton riding daily
Crossing the state TWICE
Urban camping in Fargo!
Theodore Roosevelt NP! Buffalo! Camping! Riding!
Finally getting wheels down on the Northern Tier bicycle route!
Rest stop car camping in the very friendly sleep-in rest stops of ND!
Did I mention the 49th state visit?
Itinerary
Day 1
Car rental
Camping in Fargo and Lindenwood Campground
Biking into town for dinner and all the Fargo nightlife I can handle
Day 2
Pre dawn departure
Gain an hour driving across the state into MT
Camping at TR NP at Cottonwood Campground
Buffalo herds nearby and sometimes they saunter into camp?
Day 3
Half day at TR NP to cycle a bit
Drive back across the state
Lose an hour coming back into CT
Rest area about halfway to MSP
Day 4
Pre dawn departure
Get back to MSP and fly home
Gear
Rental car
Brompton
Camping gear that fits in a checked suitcase - going with basics and adding "luxuries" if I can since this is car camping
Stove a must - likely buying fuel in MN or ND
Weather
Not as cold as youâd think for fall
Hoping for dry, preparing for not
How much biking?
It really depends. The idea here is to get a sample, not make miles.
Seeing TR NP at the speed of bike
Experiencing Fargo and its⌠bike infrastructure?
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So, the ebike works⌠and my confidence is up! What were my takeaways from the shakedown ride and what are the kinds of rides Iâm considering for 2025 and beyond for my electric wonder?
Housekeeping
Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course itâll be the pod for the following week if you canât make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.
We have a new adventure lined up in a totally new to me state! Preview episode next week!
Takeaways
The bike works and I might be a better mechanic than I thought
I may have underestimated the range on this battery
I may have underestimated the recharge capabilities of the "slow charger" but maybe not
I need more hand positions (Jones Bar? Something else?)
I really should finish the bike but if Iâm cutting cables I want to figure out the handlebars and height first
Iâm going to buy all the things to outfit this without borrowing from my other bikes
The Future
I considered bringing this bike for my annual Florida ride, then reconsidered
Positioning an ebike for a ride is complex because transportation has to be by ground or shipping
I want to do more shakedowns before going "over the wall"
C&O to Cumberland and back (or train)
Full GAP/CO
East Coast Greenway segments from DC north and south
Connect OTET to Katy (Dayton-St. Louis)
KC to Denver
Denver to the Pacific Coast
What are you interested in hearing about?
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On this episode, I take my new ebike on its first shakedown ride to test its capabilities, from battery life to chain tension to, well⌠does this thing work? Itâs a 40 mile round trip from my cabin in West Virginia to a campsite outside of Hancock, MD on the C&O towpath complete with terrain, headwinds, hills and riverside overnight!
Housekeeping
Lael Wilcoxâs ride is weeks old now but shout out to listener and former guest Cyrus Fairivar for not only meeting with Lael, but getting an unnamed shout out on her pod!
Live Show announcement! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course itâll be the pod for the following week if you canât make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.
eBike Project - Shakedown Ride
Bike Setup & Preparation:
⢠Fully charged battery, loaded with two rear panniers, and adjustments for the first e-bike adventure.
⢠Changes from the last ride: added a stove for coffee and packed some food from Mariaâs Taqueria.
Ride Experience:
⢠Initial observations on battery performance: The e-bike flattened the hills, averaging around 20-25 mph with minimal battery usage.
⢠Headwind and hill performance: Noted how the pedal assist (at level 4 and 5) made hills easier and allowed for faster cruising speeds.
Comfort Adjustments:
⢠Noted some tingling in the hands and plans to possibly add bar ends or horns for a better grip.
⢠A potential move to a more upright riding position, requiring cabling adjustments.
Battery Management:
⢠Discussed the range and recharge performance, observing that the battery was only down 25% after 20 miles of riding, even with heavy pedal assist.
⢠Insights on ideal battery storage and how the e-bikeâs range matched expectations.
Camp Setup:
⢠Arrived at camp and shared thoughts on the bikeâs potential for longer tours, with plenty of battery for return rides.
⢠Reflections on camping alone and observations on trail conditions and other cyclists.
The Ride Back:
⢠Further testing of the battery on uphill sections, confirming impressive performance with ample pedal assist.
⢠Final reflections on e-bike touring possibilities, noting a vastly improved return ride compared to previous acoustic bike tours.
Statistics
Miles biked: 40 miles
Average Speed on Flats: 23 mph
Battery confidence: 100%Efficacy of using coffee stirrers as chopsticks: 3%
Flats: 0
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Originally recorded live from Hedgesville, WV, this episode of the Pedalshift Project includes the (semi-doomed) 2018 fall tour reveal and gear tips for your fall bicycle touring. Plus banter with you⌠because it was live! Originally podcast September 27, 2018.
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On this edition, we preview a short but momentous little overnight adventure on my brand new ebike⌠weâll discuss goals and strategies, plus recharge options and⌠hey, weâre getting back on the C&O again!
eBike Project - Shakedown Preview The basicsebike
full charged battery
Two panniers and maybe the sleep kit on the handlebars
No food, no stove
Sleep clothes only (no additional clothing)
Rain gear only if rain ends up being possible
extra tools - chain breaker, master link breaker, more
The routeRoad route from cabin to Hancockâs city park, then onto one of the closer campsites on the C&O
Returning the second day to Hancock for any additional charge ups necessary and then up the hills back
Approx 40 total miles, maybe a bit more if I ride further out on the trail
Why so short?Need to keep things close in case we have something happen that requires a vehicle rescue
May be a short ride but it has a lot of climbing, long flats where speed is helpful, and more
Trying to gauge how much range this bike and battery has on real terrain
Minimal gear and gas station cuisine
Hancock has plenty of food options close to the city park that has electric
Will bring water purifier for the trail just in case, but likely will have enough water on hand to make things work
Trying to keep the variables to a minimum
WeatherFinally starting to cool down around here!
High projected to be in 70s (24C), lows in the mid 50s (13C)
Rain in the forecast for a couple of days before, but ending that morning so it should be dry but might have wet ground
Down bag, tent, pad⌠nothing too crazy necessary as we transition into fall
What Iâm looking for out of this tripEnsuring the build is solid and safe - rack, brakes, cables no longer pinched
Testing range on the battery
Getting more experience climbing with the boost
Seeing how "fast" my 3A charger can charge (not a lot)
Getting a feel for a suspension bike
Getting a feel for the tires
Assessing comfort - how long can I be in the saddle?
Assessing need for more add-ons
A chill night on the C&O⌠havenât been camping since Oregon this summer!
Pod plansSingle tour journal for the trip (there and back)
Separate takeaways episode to get into assessments, next steps, and potential ideas for 2025
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In this episode, follow an in-depth, step-by-step journey of transforming a surprisingly decent Ozark Trail mountain bike into the first Pedalshift e-bike (n=3 or 4 if youâre counting). This mega-pod takes you from the initial setup to final tweaks, including component replacements, brake and pedal adjustments, and install of a mid drive motor. Iâm hardly a bike mechanic, so will things to go sideways at least once like my typical bike adventures?
eBike Project - The Build Hey I got an ebike! Where did I end up? Decided on build over buy - more flexibility Decided on new over used - couldnât find a good used one that wasnât $$$ Went with a Bafang middrive motor and a 52v 20Ah frame mounted battery - smaller than Brianâs, but still pretty big. Watched a ton of YouTube videos and bought some tools! This took me several weeks because the bike lived at the cabin and I was back and forth a bit as I built it This was a journey⌠and the episode is a little long, but definitely brings you along tour journals style for how it wentâŚ00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:54 Choosing the Right Bike for the E-Bike Conversion
05:52 Initial Setup and Component Replacements
10:56 Challenges and Adjustments
18:05 Programming and Configuration
28:45 Battery Insights and Expectations
41:03 Assembly and Troubleshooting
48:11 Rear Brake Discovery
48:27 Chain Installation Challenges
48:30 Nighttime Reflections
49:27 Final Adjustments and Cable Management
50:51 Chain Sizing Tips
51:47 First Ride Impressions
52:32 Handlebar and Screen Setup
52:51 Rear Brake Issues
55:28 Pedal and Crank Problems
58:54 Cable and Sensor Installations
01:01:44 Tire Upgrade
01:04:14 Battery and Range Concerns
01:04:53 Shakedown Ride Plans
01:07:23 Final Preparations
01:16:47 Shakedown Ride Execution
01:25:48 E-Bike Confidence Boost
01:30:36 Closing Remarks and Future Plans
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The remix is in the rear view mirror, but as always I like to look back and discuss takeaways from every trip. On this edition, ten takeaways from the Oregon Coast Remix, celebrating ten years of the pod!
Oregon Coast Remix TakeawaysDonât Rush Tent Setup: I experienced a rough night at Bastendorf Beach County Campground due to improper tent setup. I had to get out of the tent at 12:30 AM to stake it properly, improving airflow and reducing internal condensation, which kept me awake as large drops of water hit my forehead.
Every Trip Is Unique: James and I reflected on how each of our trips along the Oregon Coast differed. For example, I noted that every time I rode the coast, I used a different bike or setup, which made each journey distinct and memorable.
Critical Importance of Food and Hydration: I discovered that my difficulties during the ride were due to dehydration, which affected my overall well-being. I shifted my focus from electrolytes to drinking more regular water, especially after noticing that my urine color indicated dehydration. Also, snacks like frosted mini-wheats helped manage my energy levels.
Oregon Coast Weatherâs Dual Role: The Oregon Coastâs weather was both a blessing and a challenge. For instance, while the cool, cloudy weather made for pleasant riding, the sudden appearance of the sun during our ride to Sunset Bay increased the difficulty, especially on long climbs.
Companionship on the Road: I noted that riding with James added a positive social element to the trip. Despite generally preferring to ride solo, I found it enjoyable to share the experience and have someone to talk to about various topics along the way.
Campground Upgrades: We stayed at a variety of campgrounds, each with different amenities. For instance, we found the new hiker-biker campsite at Jesse M. Honeyman State Park to be an improvement over previous experiences, with brand new facilities, flat tent sites, and a charging station.
The Value of Good Sleep: At Honeyman State Park, despite the riding challenges, I noted how a good nightâs sleep helped me recover, emphasizing how crucial rest is for endurance on multi-day tours.
Adaptability to Changing Plans: The trip required constant adaptation, such as when we chose to stay at Bastendorf Beach County Park instead of Sunset Bay. This change was partly due to past negative experiences at Sunset Bay and partly because we discovered Bastendorf had amenities we preferred.
Maintaining a Positive Attitude: Despite the physical and logistical challenges, James and I remained positive, often joking about the difficulties and focusing on the highlights of the trip, such as the beautiful weather and the enjoyable ride through Bandon.
Where Are the Cyclists?: James and I are still pretty puzzled about the lack of cyclist encounters on the entire ride. We talked about some of the theories, but none of them alone explain it. Having the camps to ourselves was great but if thereâs lower demand will the amenities go away?
Programming note!
Lael!
Next week we enter a new era in bike adventures⌠remember that ebike project? Letâs just say things escalated and you get to join me in the process!
Also⌠we have two more bicycle adventures left this year alone and planning for the winter trip in early 2025 is locked in. Lots more to come!
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In the summer of 2014, I took 6 weeks to ride the Pacific coast from Victoria, BC to the US-Mexico border. I recorded a 2-5 minute audio entry every day for the Tour Journals podcast to share the more detailed aspects of the ride, but always intended to edit and condense it into a more manageable length to share here. Originally podcast December 22, 2014.
(Note, I say this hasn't been released in 10 years, but it got some love as a best of in 2019. Management regrets this error and the offending parties have been sacked. Or promoted. Not sure what to do with me.)
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Sometimes journeys have distinct ends and sometimes those endings are a little more flexible. In the penultimate episode of the Oregon Coast Remix we mash together my departure from Bandon and my return a week later a few hundred miles south on the Mendocino coast where MJ and I catch up on his ride and reflect on whatâs going on with cycling on the Pacific Coast.
Oregon Coast Remix - Part 6Segment 1: Departure from Bandon, Oregon
- Early morning departure, catching the bus to Crescent City.
- The stark contrast between cycling for days and the sudden speed of motorized transport.
- Reflecting on the mixed feelings of leaving the Oregon coast but looking forward to more adventures.
Segment 2: Crescent City and Beyond
- Arriving in Crescent City via bus and experiencing the rapid transition south.
- The surreal feeling of covering in minutes what would have taken days by bike.
- Exploration of Crescent City, a quiet yet interesting coastal town with a mix of old and new homes.
Segment 3: Journey to Medford, Oregon
- Renting a Jeep for the drive to Medford, a stark contrast to the cycling experience.
- The logistics of packing up the bike and the relief of having more freedom with a car.
- Reflecting on the decision to spend extra money on a car rental instead of enduring a challenging bus experience.
- Arriving in Medford and enjoying some downtime with a few beers and a simple hotel dinner.
Segment 4: The following week in Mendocino
- Bonus content: Tim rides his Brompton to Mendocino, battling wind and heel strikes with his messenger bag.
- The beautiful yet challenging coastal route, with reflections on the unique experience of riding the Brompton.
- Meeting up with James in Mendocino for beers and conversation.
Segment 5: James' Solo Journey
- James shares his solo adventure from Bandon, Oregon, to Mendocino, California.
- Highlights include staying at unique campsites like Florence Keller in Crescent City and Sue-Meg State Park.
- Encountering heavy fog and low visibility while climbing out of Crescent City, but ultimately enjoying the beauty of the coast.
- Discussion of the strange phenomenon of not encountering any other touring cyclists during the journey.
Segment 6: Reflections on the Pacific Coast Route
- Tim and James reflect on the diminishing number of cyclists on the Pacific Coast route, speculating on reasons like the closure of Big Sur and the changing interests of the cycling community.
Statistics Miles Bussed from Bandon to Crescent City: 90 miles Miles Driven from Crescent City to Medford: 106 miles Miles Flown between segments: 5383 Total Bicycle Tourists Encountered in Camps: 0 Total Miles Cycled by James from Bandon to Mendocino: 412 miles Flats: 0 -
A short but challenging ride up and over the Seven Devils would be the last days of cycling for James and I on this adventure, but the remix theme gave us new things to try⌠a new brewery, time in a great town I usually skip, and one more new-to-us campground to rate!
Oregon Coast Remix - Part 5 Morning Update from Bastendorf Beach County Campground Tim shares challenges with condensation and a disrupted nightâs sleep. Discussion on the overall rating of the campsite and amenities. Plans for the dayâs ride: Seven Devils Road to Bandon and finally to Bullards Beach State Park. On the Road to the Seven Devils Decision to skip Sunset Bay and head straight to Seven Devils Road. Overview of the route and expected challenges. Reflections on the unique aspects of each trip and the enjoyment of new experiences. Riding the Seven Devils Tim describes the physical challenges of the ride, including dealing with humidity and climbs. Frequent breaks and efforts to maintain hydration and energy levels. Arrival in Bandon Arrival at Bandon Brewing Company for a well-deserved meal and beers. Reflections on the ride, weather conditions, and experiences in Bandon. Rating Bandon Brewing Company: 7.5/10 Final Stretch to Bullards Beach State Park The ride back to camp, facing headwinds and fatigue. Comparison of Bullards Beach State Park to other campsites visited. Rating Bullards Beach State Park: 8/10 Observations on the absence of other touring cyclists during this trip. Evening Reflections and Future Plans Enjoying the final night of camping and discussing future adventures. James plans to update his Adventure Cycling Association maps. Teaser for upcoming adventure plans involving the ACA. Statistics Miles biked 26.5 Devils 7 Beers 2 Cyclists in camp 0 Hikers in camp 1 Flats 0 -
If you canât fuel your cycling, you canât ride very far. At least thatâs what grandma always told me (editors note: she did not). So, waking up in camp without much appetite doesnât really bode well for making very many miles. But what if the solution were to just get on the bike and go? And would my reward be a night at my least favorite state park campsite?
Oregon Coast Remix - Part 4 Morning Update from Honeyman State Park On the Road to Reedsport Riding along Highway 101 Hydration and appetite improving. Reflecting on the camping experience and the tourâs challenges. Arrival in Reedsport Successful lunch, hydration improved. Decision to push for Sunset Bay, despite past unfavorable experiences. Journey to North Bend Planning to reach North Bend, with a potential new campground option. Discussions on the dayâs remaining challenges and adjustments. Break at North Bend Safeway Confirmed hiker/biker campsite at Coos County Park. Reflecting on the tourâs modifications and feeling better health-wise. Arrival at Bastendorf Beach County Park Recap of the dayâs ride and the new campsite. Comparison between Bastendorf Beach and Sunset Bay campsites. Highlights include a large grassy area, numerous picnic tables, and decent amenities. Campground Rating Discussion Tim and James rate Bastendorf Beach. Considerations include amenities, location, and overall experience. Final Thoughts Reflections on the dayâs ride and feeling back to normal. Plans for the following day: potentially tackling the seven devils and exploring Bandon or heading towards Port Orford. Statistics Miles biked 55 Elevation gain 3200 feet Appetite improvement 100% Meaningless hill climbs 1 Buzzing lights at camp 0 Wine cans imbibed 1 Picnic tables available 40 Flats 0 -
I always say day 3 is when bike tours click in, but donât sometimes exceptions prove the rule? And donât my bicycle adventures always find some way to go sideways? Everything seems to be going just fine as James and I cycle away from our beach camp, but what could possibly throw a monkey wrench into our plans this time?
Oregon Coast Remix - Part 3Morning at Beachside State Recreational Site
⢠Departure from Beachside around 8:30 AM.
⢠Planning to stop at Yachats, about 10 miles away.
⢠Encountered a group of young hikers.
Camp Experience
⢠Ratings for campsites along the way, with particular praise for South Beach and Cape Lookout.
⢠The soothing sound of crashing waves as a backdrop at Beachside.
Technical and Physical Challenges
⢠Timâs battery anxiety despite having sufficient power.
⢠Horrific leg cramps and focusing on electrolytes.
⢠The impact of caffeine on appetite suppression and performance.
Journey Highlights
⢠Departure from Beachside towards Yachats and reminiscing about a previous mishap in Yachats.
⢠The importance of breakfast and managing indigestion during the ride.
⢠Discussion on the beauty and challenges of the Oregon Coast terrain.
Midday in Yachats
⢠James and Tim enjoyed a coffee break and discussed Lael Wilcoxâs podcast.
⢠Description of the Oregon Coastâs scenic beauty, cool weather, and the joy of riding with a tailwind.
Mechanics and Adjustments
⢠Issues with bike gears and attempts at barrel adjustment.
⢠Reflecting on the bikeâs performance and necessary future adjustments.
Arrival at Jesse M. Honeyman State Park
⢠Rating the new hiker/biker campsite at Honeyman State Park.
⢠Reflecting on the dayâs ride and the impact of indigestion on performance.
Rider Reflections and Future Plans
⢠Tim and James discuss their potential next stops and the flexibility needed when plans go awry.
StatisticsMiles biked 35.3
Elevation gained 1427 ft
1472 ft - 435m
Calories eaten at lunch maybe 50
Bikers encountered at camp 0
Nephew post credit scenes 1
Flats 0 - Mostra di più
