The Pedalshift Project: Bicycle Travel Adventures
A podcast about bicycle touring, bikepacking, bike camping... any way you describe adventure travel by bike, it's covered here! From tips and tricks to ideas on how to ride your ride. Let's shrink the world by bike.
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360: Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel
04/18/2024
360: Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel
When we talk about mindfulness in bicycle travel, we mean paying close attention to our experiences and feelings while we are biking. Sometimes this is a natural thing to do and doesn't require any added thought, and sometimes it's helpful to be intentional about it because it can often enhance your travel. On this edition, we talk about how bicycling can be a mindfulness practice. Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel 1. Introduction to Mindfulness in Bicycle Travel Definition of mindfulness in the context of biking Importance of being present and enjoying each moment of the ride Concepts of self-awareness and non-judgmental observation Benefits of mindfulness for enhancing the enjoyment of bike trips 2. Mindful Preparation and Planning The role of careful planning and setting intentions for bike trips Choosing routes and destinations mindfully How mindful planning enhances connection to the adventure 3. Experiencing Joy While Riding The practice of being present during bike rides Techniques for staying mindful, like deep breathing and sensory attention Examples of joyful moments experienced by other cyclists 4. Mindful Encounters with Nature and Culture Opportunities for connecting with nature and local communities during rides Importance of openness and curiosity in these encounters 5. Overcoming Challenges with Mindfulness Facing physical and environmental challenges during bike trips Using mindfulness to manage difficult situations calmly Stories of cyclists who overcame obstacles through mindfulness 6. Featured Stories Story 1: The Hill and the Hawk Story 2: Raindrops and Revelations Story 3: The Sunset Cycle
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The Pedalshift Project 359: Urban Bike Touring
04/11/2024
The Pedalshift Project 359: Urban Bike Touring
So much of our bike travel is out on the open road, or along some back country trail. But what about the cities? On this edition, we talk about how to make cities and suburban riding a fun and enjoyable part of your next urban bike tour! Urban Bike Touring Planning Your Urban Adventure - route planning in urban areas. - researching bike-friendly cities and regions. - know the area and any rules of paths Choosing the Right Bike and Gear - bike and gear choices for urban touring. - have a flexible setup - Gear recommendations - locks, lights, and bags Navigating Cities and Suburbs - Tips for navigating city streets safely and confidently. - Discuss bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and public transportation integration. - Strategies for dealing with traffic and busy intersections. Finding Accommodations - Roofed vs unroofed -hotels, hostels, rentals, camping. - Plan ahead vs. staying flexible Immerse Yourself - Highlight the unique cultural experiences that urban touring offers. - Suggestions for exploring local cuisine, art, and events. - Best experiences - NYC, Tampa, SF, LA, San Diego Challenges - theft concerns and bike security. - "bad parts of the city" may be real or may be reverse hype - comfort over all else
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Best of Pedalshift 138: Bike Touring Canada
04/04/2024
Best of Pedalshift 138: Bike Touring Canada
An interview with Jesse Herbert on his experiences biike touring Canada (and around the world), plus a ton of great ideas, hacks and tips on all things bicycle touring, from lightening your load to braving a chilly night in a hammock.
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358: The eBike Build Update
03/28/2024
358: The eBike Build Update
The big project for 2024 is building the ultimate custom e-bike. On this episode we update where I'm at with the project... have I narrowed things down or am I hopelessly lost in the paradox of choice? e-Bike Build Update Overview of the e-bike build vs. buy decision. Experiences and research done in Portland, Oregon, highlighting e-bike focused shops. Special mention of for custom bike builds. Discussion on the drawbacks of commercially available e-bikes, particularly around proprietary battery systems. Attraction to the "Biking Brian" style of massive battery and universal adapters for custom builds. Considerations against "chonky" e-bike frames for a sleeker, non-e-bike appearance. The decision leaning towards a custom build for its expandability and customization. Thoughts on suspension and tire width for e-bike comfort and stability. Exploring the option of converting the host’s Safari touring bike into an e-bike. Financial and technical considerations of a DIY build. Potential barriers and required new skills and tools. The sentimental value of the Safari bike and the implications of converting it. The downsides of rim brakes on an e-bike and the consideration of disc brakes. Timing concerns for the build project overlapping with prime touring season. Upsides of undertaking the e-bike project: a rewarding challenge, expanding bike mechanic skills, and personalizing the bike. Dilemmas between the ease of buying a pre-made e-bike and the appeal of a custom build. Future steps: considering all options post upcoming spring tour with the Safari bike. Closing thoughts on the e-bike build or buy journey and its implications for the host’s cycling future. Mention of Biking Brian’s build video and load management insights. Security considerations for e-bikes, particularly battery theft. Final reflections on the episode’s discussion and the ongoing decision process.
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357: Space Coast Loop - Takeaways
03/21/2024
357: Space Coast Loop - Takeaways
With the 2024 Florida ride in the rearview mirror, it’s time to assess how it went. I did the ride a bit differently this time… was it the right call? Is there something I definitely want to do next time? And what will I never do again in the Orlando area? Space Coast Loop - Takeaways A Brompton can do just about any kind of touring you throw at it Resist the temptation to leave tools at home, even for urban tours Best sun management for me - cover up arms and legs, sunscreen face and neck Cycling gloves do make a difference The rumors are true: upright riding is more comfortable The backpack trick is back, baby! Never take US192 to cross I4 - it’s not safe Cycling into Disney World is fun, and I think I’ll keep doing it Central Florida is constantly evolving - some of the trails I ended up on randomly (Shingle Creek Trail opened last year - thanks for the info Fernando!) FL C2C trail is A+ but I’m also intrigued with the Heart of FL trail and the St. Johns River to Sea Loop
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356: Space Coast Loop - Part 4
03/14/2024
356: Space Coast Loop - Part 4
The final day of the Space Coast Loop was supposed to be the easiest… a familiar route and a familiar destination, with maybe a quirk at the end. But would my luck avoiding mechanicals finally run out and would making a route change in the middle of the ride end up putting me in the middle of an interstate highway? Space Coast Loop - Part 4 An Early Start: Starting in St. Cloud, riding by a nearby farm. Route Change: Deciding to take a more direct route including an unfamiliar trail. Riding on US 192: Riding on US 192, recalling past experiences. Assessing Traffic Conditions: Planning to evaluate safety and traffic near Disney Resort. A Mechanical Issue: Facing and resolving a chain jam. Discovering and Using Trails: Finding and using multi-use paths and trails. Encountering Wildlife and Agriculture: Commenting on cows and agriculture near urban areas. Navigating Challenges: US 192 is a bad idea to ride when it crosses I-4! Reflecting on Planning vs. Reality: Reflecting on the differences between planning and actual conditions. Concluding at Coronado Springs Resort: Ending the day at Coronado Springs Resort, opting for a lift to another location. Statistics Miles biked 34.8 Terrible route change ideas 1 Creams in my iced coffee 2 55+ resorts biked by 3? more? Chain jams 1 Flats 0 Trip Overview
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Best of Pedalshift 157: The Ohio to Erie Trail
03/07/2024
Best of Pedalshift 157: The Ohio to Erie Trail
The Ohio to Erie Trail spans 326 miles diagonally across Ohio, linking up Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland and everything in between. On this episode, we chat about the trail and the experience biking across Ohio! .
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355: Space Coast Loop - Part 3
02/29/2024
355: Space Coast Loop - Part 3
Day 3 of the ride was a return to a familiar road route that kicked off this whole riding in Florida thing all the way back in 2019. But after two days of mostly idyllic trail riding, would competing for asphalt with cars and trucks be a rude awakening? And also, what direction are the prevailing winds in Florida again? Space Coast Loop - Part 3 Morning Preparations and Departure Early morning considerations for layer adjustment due to temperature changes. Decision against taking a shortcut due to inferior biking infrastructure, opting for safer, longer routes with better facilities. Route and Scenery Travel south of Titusville on Indian River Road, enjoying the views and calm traffic with speed bumps to moderate speed. Encounters with beautiful landscapes, including Spanish moss on trees and scenic river views. Supply Stops Initial plan to stop at Walgreens, followed by a successful stop at Publix for supplies. Consumption of sugary drinks and snacks for energy, reflecting on dietary preferences and changes over time. Riding Experience Descriptions of varying road conditions, including the impact of headwinds and the strategy for energy management. Observations on traffic behavior, especially around large trucks, and personal safety measures like visibility and lane positioning. Accommodation and Rest Arrival at an Airbnb in St. Cloud, highlighting the rural setting with chickens, roosters, and ducks, and the installation of a new bike path enhancing access to the property Reflections on the physical and mental challenges of the day, including the effectiveness of sugar and caffeine against headwinds, and the benefits of music for motivation. Planning and Anticipation Planning for the next day's route with considerations for traffic and personal endurance. Strategic thinking about meal planning, gear management, and the anticipation of a shorter ride day. Statistics Miles biked 59.1 Sugary drink references 1 Farm animals observed 200? Missed turns 3 Tears for Fears references 1 Flats 0 Trip Overview
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354: Space Coast Loop - Part 2
02/22/2024
354: Space Coast Loop - Part 2
Day 2 of the Space Coast Loop, starts with another early morning, and nearly twice the mileage of the previous day. Riding on the Spring to Spring and East Central Regional Rail Trails promised to be great, along all the Spanish moss and unique wildlife central Florida has to offer. But ah those pesky headwinds coming off the coast I’m trying to reach… will my less-than-robust pre-ride conditioning do me in? Space Coast Loop - Part 2 Morning start and campsite experience details Weather conditions and gear choices Appreciation for campsite amenities and value Plans for the day's ride, including terrain and stops Descriptions of the Spring to Spring Trail and East Central Regional Rail Trail Interactions with other cyclists and wildlife observations Food and hydration strategy throughout the day Physical and mental state reflections Overall journey reflections, including trail beauty and challenges Anticipation for future rides and route planning Evening reflections and campsite experiences Statistics Miles biked 51.4 Sugary sodas 2 Shoutouts to Aussies 1 (Matty Freedom!) Spanish Moss mentions 3 NASA nerdery count 5 or 6? Sum total of Manatees and Hammocks at Manatee Hammock campground 0 Frustration with wind noise on this tour journal infinity Flats 0 Trip Overview
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353: Space Coast Loop - Part 1
02/15/2024
353: Space Coast Loop - Part 1
Packing up and getting myself and my trusty Brompton to central Florida is a well-practiced mid-winter routine for me at this point. But this year, we’re mixing it up with a new route and (finally?) some actual camping in the sunshine state. But would the unfamiliar route and lack of decent conditioning through the holidays put the brakes on this adventure before we even start? Space Coast Loop - Part 1 Preparation and Packing Travel to Florida Arrival and Bike Setup in Winter Garden Trail Riding Experience Camping Preparations and Considerations Mechanical Adjustments and Bike Modifications Weather and Riding Conditions Navigation and Trail Experiences End-of-Day Reflections and Camping Experience Statistics Miles flown 862 Miles biked 35.4 Number of 44 stars given 1 Times my phone dropped off my MagSafe bike mount 4 Auto Clubs mentioned 2 Footlongs consumed 1 Flats 0 Trip Overview
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352: Space Coast Loop Preview
02/08/2024
352: Space Coast Loop Preview
The first tour of 2024 is a little bit of an old friend, but with brand new parts. Central Florida in early winter has treated me well, but things need to be shaken up. How about crossing a chunk of the state on a fantastic trail and mixing in some camping for the first time on one of these adventures? On this episode, we preview all of the excitement to come! Space Coast Loop Preview Trip Overview Announcement of returning to Florida for the Space Coast Loop Brief mention of the Brompton setup and intention for a different kind of trip Trip Details The loop trip's basic structure and logistics Emphasis on Central Florida as the chosen location Decision to include camping and the planning involved Discussion about flight logistics and bicycle transportation, focusing on using a Brompton for ease of travel Gear and Preparation Explanation of the gear-hauling strategy using a backpack Mention of potential weather challenges and preparations Details on packing light and meal planning Itinerary and Route Planning Start of the trip from Orlando, moving towards Winter Garden, Florida Exploration of the Florida Coast to Coast Trail Details of each day's ride, including camping locations and daily mileages Inclusion of a roofed lodging stay and the reasons behind it Plans for entering Disney World property and the anticipated challenges Personal Insights and Anticipations Reflection on the uniqueness of this trip compared to past adventures Mention of new bicycling setup and excitement for the camping experience Anticipation for the Florida Coast to Coast trail and potential challenges Wrap-Up and Look Ahead Concluding thoughts on the upcoming trip Plans for future episodes covering the day-to-day experiences of the tour
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Best of Pedalshift 113: Training for your first bike tour
02/01/2024
Best of Pedalshift 113: Training for your first bike tour
So it’s your first bike tour and you have no idea where to begin… that’s where the Pedalshift Beginners Series comes in! On this edition, we cover training (especially when you’re off the bike) plus raising funds if your ride has a charitable component! Originally podcast April 12, 2018.
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351: Building an eBike
01/25/2024
351: Building an eBike
The big project for 2024 is building the ultimate custom ebike. On this episode we go over the three key components to the build, from picking the perfect frame, the right mid-drive motor and a battery that gives range and power. What’s better than a project that blends tech with cycling? Building an eBike The Ebike Build Plan Overview - Intentions and possibilities for the ebike build, including cost considerations and potential delays. Inspiration and Goals for the Custom Ebike - Aim for a custom battery build to cover more ground in less time, inspired by ’s rig. Bicycle Selection Criteria - Choosing a durable and compatible frame, with considerations for material (steel vs. aluminum) and geometry. Mid Drive Motor Choice - The importance of selecting an efficient mid-drive motor, focusing on power output and brand reliability. Custom Battery Build Exploration - Options for a custom battery build, prioritizing safety and capacity, and the possibility of a prebuilt battery. Roadmap and Next Steps for the Ebike Project - The complex process and interdependencies among bicycle selection, motor choice, and battery build. Listener Engagement and Feedback - Encouraging listener experiences and advice on ebike builds. Programming Note! - Preview of future episodes, including bike tour previews and training for a first bike tour.
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350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals
01/18/2024
350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals
Just like last year, let's set some goals for bike adventures in 2024! Studies show you are more likely to achieve your goals if they are specific and measurable, plus you write them down and share them with others. As a nudge to get you to do the same, I'm sharing my goals for bike adventures in 2024 here on the pod! 2024 Bike Adventure Goals 1. New Experiences in Bike Travel Goal Plan at least three bike trips to destinations never visited before, including local hidden gems and longer journeys. Measurable Aspect Track and document the number of new places visited with photos and a travel journal. 2. Exploring and Enjoying the Trips More Incorporate Unique Activities or Experiences Goal Add at least one unique activity or experience to each trip, like local cuisine tasting, community event participation, or historical site exploration. Measurable Aspect Record and rate each unique experience on a scale of 1-10 for enjoyment. Plan a Low-Mileage, Slow-Paced Tour Goal Conduct a bike tour emphasizing slow travel and low daily mileage, focusing on scenery enjoyment and local culture engagement. Measurable Aspect Implement a daily mileage limit (e.g., no more than 30 miles) to allow for exploration and rest. Engage with Local Communities Goal Interact with local communities during tours, including staying at local guesthouses and dining at family-owned restaurants. Measurable Aspect Document interactions, including names of stays, dining places, and community events. Document the Journey Goal Capture the tour's essence through photography, journaling, or video blogging, focusing on storytelling. Measurable Aspect Create a travel log or digital album of key moments and stories. 3. Building a New Ebike with Long Range Battery Capacity and Range Goal Install a high-capacity battery system for a range of about 120 miles per charge, similar to Biking Brian's setup. Measurable Aspect Choose a battery with around 1500Wh capacity. Motor Efficiency and Power Goal Select a mid-drive motor that balances efficiency and power, suitable for various terrains and distances. Measurable Aspect Opt for a mid-drive motor with 250-750 watts power output. Overall Design for Comfort and Durability Goal Build a bike focusing on comfort and durability, including a comfortable seat, ergonomic handlebars, and a robust frame. Measurable Aspects Frame and Suspension Select a frame that balances weight and strength, with front suspension for terrain comfort. Seating and Handlebars Ensure high-quality, ergonomic seating and adjustable handlebars.
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349: Filmmaker Interview - We Are All in This Together
01/11/2024
349: Filmmaker Interview - We Are All in This Together
We kick off 2024 with an interview of filmmaker Daniel Troia on his award-winning documentary, which tracks a cross-country bicycle journey with the hope of gaining a better understanding of the human connection, relying on the kindness of strangers. Filmmaker Interview - We Are All in This Together - Introduction - The Documentary - Social Issues and Cycling - Route and Experiences - Previous Cycling Adventures - Dumpster Diving and Food Waste - Encounters and Human Connection - Bicycling Mechanics and Gear - Reflections on Social Division in the U.S. - Closing and Additional Information Links and Resources Daniel’s YouTube: Daniel’s Instagram:
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Best of Pedalshift 223: Bike Tour Packing Strategies
01/04/2024
Best of Pedalshift 223: Bike Tour Packing Strategies
You’ve got our bike, you know where you’re going… the next biggest thing is what to bring and how to pack it! On this edition of the pod, my top five strategies for packing for a bike tour. .
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348: An AI Boost for Your Bike Adventures
12/28/2023
348: An AI Boost for Your Bike Adventures
For the final epsiode of 2023, we take a peek at the future at the intersection of technology and cycling. It seems like artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing everything else, so how could it help with bicycle travel? On this edition we dream up AI-assisted route planning, gear selection and maintenance tips from our robot overlords (kidding!) to help keep your ride smooth. AI in Route Planning for Bike Touring How AI can optimize route planning based on terrain, weather, and personal preferences. Example: AI tools that analyze hills, weather patterns, and scenic routes. AI-generated personalized routes that cater to different cycling levels and interests. Case Study: A beginner cyclist planning a scenic and easy route vs. an experienced cyclist seeking challenging terrains. Benefits of real-time updates and rerouting options based on current conditions. AI-Driven Gear Recommendations How AI can suggest the best gear based on trip length, terrain, and weather. Example: AI suggesting lightweight tents for dry conditions or more durable gear for rough terrains. Discussion on AI's role in helping cyclists choose the right bike for their journey. Example: Recommending a gravel bike for mixed-terrain tours. How AI can assist in packing lists and weight distribution for optimized bike handling. Maintenance and AI Assistance AI's role in predictive maintenance and bike health monitoring. Example: AI algorithms predicting when parts like brake pads or chains need replacement. Interactive guides for on-the-road repairs and maintenance using AI. Example: AI providing step-by-step repair instructions through an app. The future of bike maintenance: integrating AI for enhanced safety and performance. SAM as a tool for future episodes of the show Introduce SAM (Smarter Alternative to Me) as the new ocassional AI cohost. SAM's expertise in bicycle builds, ebike battery technology, and mechanics. How SAM will assist in future episodes, focusing on ebike power optimization and cycling technology discussions.
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347x: The Aftershow (feat. Brock & Aaron)
12/21/2023
347x: The Aftershow (feat. Brock & Aaron)
Dude, this is the aftershow if you want more of the Holiday Spectacular conversation with Tim, Brock and Aaron.... listen to this second. - Shifty the Elf
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347: The Pedalshift Holiday Spectacular 2023
12/21/2023
347: The Pedalshift Holiday Spectacular 2023
The annual tradition continues! Did you know that during this special season of giving I often visit the old retired podcasters home to spread some holiday cheer? Why don't you come visit with me? You never know who we might run into! (If you like the conversation, there's an aftershow in your feed too!)
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346: Slow Travel by Bike
12/14/2023
346: Slow Travel by Bike
On this episode of The Pedalshift Project, we explore slow travel and its relevance to your bicycle adventures. We also circle back to our previous discussion on eBikes, reflecting on some listener feedback and exploring the evolving role of eBikes on the future of bicycle travel. E-Biking Adventures Follow-Up A recap and appreciation for the previous episode's guest, Biking Brian. Discussion on the high listener engagement and feedback from the eBike episode. Future implications of e-bikes in bicycle travel. Addressing listener feedback on the capabilities of commercially available e-bikes for touring. Slow Travel by Bike Defining Slow Travel Embracing the Journey - the importance, the rewards, the opportunities Slow Travel Planning Slow Travel Benefits
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Best of Pedalshift 074: Fast Forward Your Bike Adventures
12/07/2023
Best of Pedalshift 074: Fast Forward Your Bike Adventures
On this edition, how to fast forward your bike adventures. It’s your ride… make it the best you can by bypassing parts you don’t want, catching up on a schedule or accommodating an extra day in a cool spot! .
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345: eBike Adventures with Biking Brian
11/30/2023
345: eBike Adventures with Biking Brian
On this episode of The Pedalshift Project, we welcome eBike expert Biking Brian to chat about his eBike touring and adventures. We discuss his background in bicycling and touring, his experiences with building eBikes and battery packs, and the future potential of eBike travel. eBike Adventures with Biking Brian Brian's eBike touring experience Brian's charger and battery pack Brian's background and early bicycling experience Building eBikes and battery packs The ease of installing eBike components Potential future eBike tour routes The challenges of finding charging spots during the day The availability of online videos for guidance in installing eBike components The future of eBike touring and its potential popularity The complexity and process of building eBikes and battery pack Future adventures Watch this conversation Biking Brian on YouTube - Brian's Indiana to Boston ride route -
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344: Delaware Double Cross + Takeaways
11/23/2023
344: Delaware Double Cross + Takeaways
As an aficionado of crossing states by bicycle, there's big ones on my list like NY, CA and OR... and then there's less impressive ones that still absolutely count. Welcome to the Delaware Double Cross! Delaware Double Cross 00:03 Intro 01:05 The Start of the Delaware Double Cross 02:01 Challenges of the Journey 02:49 Exploring the Eastern Shore 07:45 The Journey Continues: Crossing the State 15:56 Arrival at Delaware City 17:52 The Return Journey 25:16 Takeaways on the Adventure 27:04 Closing STATISTICS Miles biked 30 Wheels on Brompton when I left Chesapeake City 6 Wheels when I got to Delaware City 5 Numbers of people who asked me how much my bike weighed 2 Melty ice creams eaten 1 Beers imbibed 1 States crossed 1 (x2) Flats 0
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343: Delaware Double Cross Preview
11/16/2023
343: Delaware Double Cross Preview
My fall 2023 adventure checks the box on one of my goals from the beginning of the year... I love crossing states by bike, and is it my fault that some of them are very, very skinny? Ok, fine I'll cross it TWICE to make it count! Previewing my next ride... the Delaware Double Cross! Delaware Double Cross Preview 2023 goal... cross a new state by bike DELAWARE! First plan... the one I didn't choose ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ All transit and bike MARC to the northern terminus in Perryville Bus to Elkton Ride across to Delaware City Ride to Wilmington Amtrak to DC Why didn't I choose this? Safety! Bike situation near Elkton was even dicier than the Florida sidewalk and shoulder riding I've done that is pretty marginal Google Street View revealed possible options, but the more I scratched at the surface, the worse it looked What I chose - the LaCrosse! and a simpler off-road option Drive to Chesapeake City MD Ride the Mike Castle Trail to Delware City along the Delaware and Chesapeake Canal to the Delaware River AND BACK! 30 miles of riding Brompton Very minimal gear (snacks and water) Weather - could be hot, could be rainy... will dress as appropriate Some cool towns to explore - all new to me! No camping or overnighting... just a day tour that checks a box. Twice in fact! Skinny state? #notcheating
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342: Solo vs. Group Riding
11/09/2023
342: Solo vs. Group Riding
On this episode... why you might choose solo touring compared to group bicycle adventuring (or vice versa!) Solo Riding Freedom and independence Opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth during solo tours. Much easier to plan - no schedule coordinations with other riders Much easier to pace Solo Touring Challenges Safety concerns Loneliness Gear watching when inside stores Expenses not split Mitigating these challenges Listen to episode 340 on safety - planning and prep is key Listen to episode 341 on mental side and lonliness - be present and in the moment and have ways to connect when you need to Your gear is safer than you think, but choose where you stop mindfully Find ways to reduce costs - check out Pedalshift 045 (camping over hotels, cook your food, etc.) Group Riding Camaraderie and sense of community Benefits of sharing experiences and responsibilities with fellow cyclists. Memories maybe deeper? Group Touring Challenges Logistics of planning and executing a group tour Clashing personalities Differing speeds Differing expectations Differing priorities Mitigating the challenges Importance of communication, leadership, and teamwork within a group. Tips from our chat with Guthrie Straw in Pedalshift 163 Making the Decision: Solo, Group, or Both? Solo or group touring is a personal fit for your preferences and goals. Consider best of both worlds - combining solo and group touring on the same journey. Conclusion There is no one size fits all answer The choice between solo and group touring depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Reflect on their touring goals and consider trying both solo and group touring at different times. November on the Pod Fall tour preview next week - a box checker! Tour journal! Interview in the works on a topic I've been really wanting to cover!
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Best of Pedalshift 228: My Bike Tour Planning Process
11/02/2023
Best of Pedalshift 228: My Bike Tour Planning Process
On this edition, I open up my bike tour planning process and technique for a tour I’ve been mulling over for years. .
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341: The Mental Side of Bikepacking and Bicycle Touring
10/26/2023
341: The Mental Side of Bikepacking and Bicycle Touring
On this edition, we explore the mental challenges that bikepackers and touring cyclists face during their journeys, and some tips on how to handle them. The mental side of bikepacking and bike touring Intro Exploring the mental challenges that bikepackers and touring cyclists face during their journeys. I am not a mental health professional - these are tips from my experiences. Work with a therapist or other mental health professional for deeper connection on these issues! Mental stamina is possibly more important than physical ability when it comes to long-distance cycling adventures. The Psychological Side of Bikepacking and Bike Touring Mental and emotional aspects of bikepacking and touring highs and lows of the journey loneliness and isolation Setbacks and adversity Post adventure depression Loneliness and Isolation If this is an issue, consider group adventures If you encounter this, find ways to connect but know that can sometimes reinforce the feelings after a call, etc. Find ways to deflect - focus on what's around, be present... or connect with what grounds you (work on the bike, listen to music or podcasts) Dealing with Setbacks and Adversity equipment failures adverse weather navigation errors maintaining a positive mindset and resilience in the face of adversity mindfulness, positive self-talk, and visualization in maintaining mental stamina. Finding Inspiration and Joy - scenery, encounters with locals, and personal growth The power of gratitude and staying present to enhance the touring experience Post adventure depression Stunningly common Readjusting to normal life after long tours is challenging Give yourself some buffer time rather than just jump back in
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340: Staying Safe on Bicycle Adventures
10/19/2023
340: Staying Safe on Bicycle Adventures
Look, we all know there’s some inherent risk in bikepacking, bike touring and even bike commuting. Between bad infrastructure and inattentive drivers, we assume some degree of risk every time we’re in the saddle. But as with anything, there are things we can do to make our bicycle adventures safer than by doing nothing. On this episode, some thoughts on all the things you can do to have a safer ride! Safety Considerations on Bicycle Adventures Route and Destination Safety Traffic and Road Safety Gear and Equipment Health and First Aid on the Road Wildlife and Environmental Safety Personal Security and Theft Prevention Emergency Preparedness
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339: PDX-SF2x - Takeaways
10/12/2023
339: PDX-SF2x - Takeaways
Weeks after the conclusion of my unusually successful adventure combining cycling and transit, what are my big takeaways? On this edition, the benefit of hindsight helps to put the trip into perspective! PDX-SF2x - Takeaways Day 1's takeaway - it's never as bad as you think it is (unless, of course it is) Disappointed in the bike work but it could easily be my mistake too The rack bolt shearing off was absolutely saved by work they did too Not sure if the lost gear inches are worth throwing out a perfectly good cassette. Will have plenty of time to mull it over Day 2's takeaway - always be ready for bus racks that are broken or missing It turned out fine, but it's a great reminder that reliance on transit puts you at the whims of all sorts of elements beyond the schedule! Day 3's takeaway - triple check for that phone (and your wallet and...) There are 2 things I really need to make sure are on me at all times and really one Phone can somewhat replace a wallet, wallet can get you a new phone ID for travel may be most important of all Phone does so much for so many of us - entertainment, communications, directions Charger may be as important too First time I may buy into the no-electronics argument. Overreliance? Day 4's takeaway - touring is about people more than biking The longish bus ride down the coast exposed me to the mini community of the driver and locals that rely on the service So many of us have multiple options to move, so it's great to have the perspective of those that don't and a great driver that facilitates it Transit does more than move people, and that's why we shouldn't demand it drive a profit Day 5's takeaways - It's definitely Newark and connecting systems are magic It's Newark, it just is Reflecting on MJ's comment about how all of the chances of failure balanced with how the busses from Brookings to Fortuna just... worked! One of the two or three transit flips that were critical to this not ending with a thud Day 6's takeaways - zip ties are non-negotable brings and I'm glad I pushed myself Zip ties saved the trip and I'm not sure what my options were without them Day 6 was pretty much my limit but an earlier start may have made it easier, even though it wasn't possible with the bus schedule (Another critical bus!) Day 7's takeaway - CA gets hot people! There wasn't a chance in hell I could have cycled in that More power to people that do, but I'm actively choosing against rides with any possibilith of that heat and I know that really limits things Final days takeaways - it was a quick stay in SF but the Golden Gate Bridge is a stellar finish line
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Best of Pedalshift 188: Grocery Store Strategies
10/05/2023
Best of Pedalshift 188: Grocery Store Strategies
Almost everywhere, the cheapest bet to stay fed on bicycle tour is a town’s grocery store. On this episode, I cover my grocery store strategies on bike tour… from prep to pedaling off with panniers full of treats to chow on later! .
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