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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Is Bicycle Touring in Decline?
11/20/2025
Is Bicycle Touring in Decline?
Bicycle touring numbers feel like they’re down—fewer loaded panniers on the road, Adventure Cycling Association facing major financial headwinds, and a lot of long-time tourers quietly aging out. But is touring actually in decline, or is it just shifting into something that looks different—like bikepacking, gravel, and shorter, more flexible trips? In this episode I dig into Adventure Cycling’s recent membership and financial update, talk through generational and economic trends, and explore whether we’re seeing the end of an era… or just the end of one version of it. Is Bicycle Touring in Decline? What the ACA Letter Tells Us Recent email to ACA membership on a vote regarding selling their building in Missoula Membership down from almost 40,000 in 2023 to about 18,000 today. Donations down. Demand for guided tours has softened. Sales of maps/routes have dropped with free digital tools and GPS routes everywhere. Their diagnosis Members aging out of cycling. Some people don’t feel enough value in a paid membership. Travel patterns are changing; inflation and costs are up; maybe fewer people committing to long guided tours. The building sale piece: ACA can sell their big, underutilized Missoula headquarters for ~$2.55M, then lease back just the space they need. The goal is to buy a “runway” of a few years to rebuild membership and modernize programs (digital experience, routes, tours, events). This is serious—membership halving in a couple of years is not a blip. But this is one institution. It’s a single data point, not the whole story. Is ACA’s Crisis Proof That Touring Is Dying? Possible “touring is in trouble” interpretation: If the biggest U.S. touring org is shrinking, maybe demand really is falling. Fewer people willing to pay for routes, maps, and guided tours could indicate less interest in traditional loaded touring. Alternative explanations: Value perception problem: If you can download GPX routes for free, people might not feel like they need a membership. Younger riders may not connect with a membership model or a print magazine in the same way. Business model problem vs. touring problem: Guided tours and paper maps are specific products. Those can decline even if DIY touring thrives. If a streaming-era kid doesn’t buy DVDs, it doesn’t mean movies are dead—just that the business model changed. Same question here: is ACA Blockbuster, or are movies in trouble? The Aging Out Effect The ACA explicitly mentions aging out of cycling. Talk through generational dynamics: A lot of classic touring energy came from the boomers and older Gen X. Long, multi-week tours require time, health, and often retirement or very flexible work. People aging out doesn’t necessarily mean the activity is dying, but: If younger generations aren’t replacing those numbers, you get a visible decline. Touring can look intimidating: expensive gear, big time commitments, safety fears. Possible barriers for younger riders: Student debt, unstable housing, fewer long chunks of vacation, higher baseline anxiety around traffic and climate disasters (heat, smoke, extreme weather). The Rise of Bikepacking and Off-Road Travel Ttouring may just be changing costume: More folks are drawn to bikepacking and gravel: lighter gear, off-road routes, “adventure” branding. Social media and brands push a certain aesthetic: frame bags, dirt roads, epic photography. Contrast vibes: Classic touring: fenders, racks, panniers, highways, small towns, campgrounds. Bikepacking: singletrack/doubletrack, BLM land, forest roads, more “expedition-y”, often shorter but punchier trips. If someone is out for five days with bags on their bike, sleeping outside and moving every day… and we’re calling that bikepacking instead of touring… did touring really decline, or did it just get relabeled? Is bikepacking now the umbrella term for bike adventuring? Is It Just a (pardon the pun) Cycle? Historical perspective: There was a big touring boom in the 1970s and again mini-waves around the early 2000s . We thought the 2020 COVID bike boom would impact things, but did it? Outdoor sports often rise and fall with the economy, culture, and media stories. Economic cycle: High inflation, higher travel costs, and general uncertainty can make long trips harder. At the same time, travel has become more fragmented: people take 3-day trips instead of 3-week odysseys. Cultural cycle: Right now, gravel and ultra-events (Unbound, etc.) get the headlines. Touring is slow and unsexy by comparison. Slow unsexy things tend to look “dead” for a while… until the next backlash against all the hype and burnout. We might be in the hangover phase after the COVID bike boom and a big cultural swing toward short, ‘epic’ experiences. Other Factors That Make Touring Feel Smaller Safety and traffic fears: distracted driving, speed, road rage, social media amplifying every horror story. Climate and weather extremes: heat domes, wildfire smoke, storms—touring has always danced with weather, but now the dice feel loaded. Information overload: paradoxically, infinite online info can make people freeze and not choose any tour. Shift to micro-touring: overnighters, weekend campouts, credit-card touring instead of epic cross-country runs. That looks less visible on the ACA radar but might be the real growth area. What ACA’s Plan Signals About the Future Positive outlook: Selling an underused building to buy time to modernize could be a good sign. It’s a choice to adapt instead of slowly bleed out. They’re explicitly planning to invest in: More routes and route updates Digital and website improvements Stronger advocacy tools Expanded tours and member events The big question: Can an organization built around old touring models reinvent itself for a world of bikepacking, GPS, and dispersed, remote communities? Will they pivot toward being the hub for all forms of bike travel, not just pannier touring? Final Take: Is Touring Actually in Decline? Yes, in the classic sense. Fewer people paying for memberships, maps, and guided pannier tours. The touring demographic that built ACA is shrinking and aging. No, if you widen the definition. Bikepacking, mixed-surface, overnighters, and “ride-to-your-Airbnb” trips are essentially touring by another name. People are still traveling by bicycle; they’re just doing it with different gear and routes. Mostly, it’s in a messy transition. Legacy institutions and business models are under intense pressure. New formats (digital communities, route-sharing platforms, YouTube, social media) are where a lot of the energy lives now. The story isn’t “touring is dying”—it’s “touring is migrating.” Go on any kind of bike trip—overnight, credit-card, dirt, paved, doesn’t matter. Support whichever orgs, creators, or communities actually help them get out the door (ACA, local groups, creators, etc.). If you’re an ACA member, vote on the building sale by November 24. Whatever side you land on it seems like this will likely define things for ACA for the next several years. •Bike touring has always been a niche. The question isn’t whether the niche survives—it’s what form it takes for the next generation. And we all get to shape that.
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Bike Adventure Goals Scorecard
11/13/2025
Bike Adventure Goals Scorecard
Way back in January - and what feels like ten years ago to me - I set out a bunch of bicycle adventure goals for me in 2025. In a challenging year, I wasn't sure how I'd measure up but as I always like to do, I gave the goals a once over to see how I did. So on this episode we give it a scorecard treatment, but also a sneak preview of the final piece of 2025 adventuring that manages to check one of the boxes! 2025 Bike Adventure Goals Scorecard Celebrating plans already made, and taking care of yourself Sort of? A big ebike trip – maybe two. Taking the bike on a ride only the ebike can do… extra distance per day? Twice as fast? Looking at a push west and maybe north too. Points for trying with the Lake Ontario trip. Something international – you non-US folks have been very patient with this America-centric pod. We’ll see if we can get wheels down someplace I need a passport. Check! Helllloooo Canada! I also got to do off-pod adventures in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Belgium… no biking but a lot of walking and exploring. West coast – what, you thought I wouldn’t hit the Pacific coast? Pffft… find another podcast! Probably summer. Check! Mysterious Oregon trip! More bike adjacent adventures – exploring someplace where I ride, a bike gets used, but it’s not necessarily the full focus. Europe trip was an adventure but not bike-adjacent. But I have a small one coming up in a few weeks that is absolutely out of left field in terms of location, but wholeheartedly checks the box, so CHECK. Shall we do a preview? (You'll have to listen to get that one!)
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Best of Pedalshift 249: Solo Touring Women
11/06/2025
Best of Pedalshift 249: Solo Touring Women
A chat with Sylva Florence, an experienced bicycle tourist and author of many things (including her blog The Sylva Lining) on touring as a solo woman, how people who want to be allies to solo women touring can do that without being creepy, and some of her favorite adventures. .
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The Ultralight Challenge
10/30/2025
The Ultralight Challenge
What if you could tour with just what fits in a single dry bag? No panniers. Just the essentials. On this episode, we take this as a challenge - borrowing from the ultralight backpacking folks, we cut off our toothbrush handles and weigh every gram for the ultralight bikepacking challenge! “What if you could tour with just what fits in your handlebar bag? No panniers. No rack. Just the essentials.” Why: curiosity, simplicity, nimble handling, testing limits for overnighters or credit card touring. Rules: one mid-size drybag (say 10–12L). No extra frame or seat bags. Trip assumptions: 1–2 nights, shoulder season, mild weather but possible cool nights. Riding style: paved/mixed surfaces, moderate daily mileage. Shelter Options to debate: Tarp + bivy sack (light, cheap, minimal bug protection). Minimal trekking pole tarp (if you carry a pole or can use the bike). Emergency bivy + bug net (super small but spartan). UL single-wall tent (if you can compress to fit — ~1lb tents exist). Hammock Where I land: Shelter Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp 5.2 oz Dyneema, no floor; packs to fist size Groundsheet Polycryo sheet (cut to size) 1.5 oz Cheap and super compact Bug Net Sea to Summit Nano Pyramid (solo) 2.9 oz Optional if mosquitoes likely Stakes 6 titanium shepherd hooks 2 oz Can share with tarp Guyline 2 mm reflective cord 1 oz Multipurpose (also for repairs) Total Shelter Weight: ~12 oz (340 g) Sleep Kit Pad: short closed-cell foam (Z-lite cut down) vs ultralight inflatable (NeoAir Uberlite). Quilt: 40°F down quilt packs to a grapefruit. Sleep Clothing layering: puffy jacket + base layers to extend quilt rating. pillow (there are some ultralight inflatables too) Where I land: Sleep Pad Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite (small) 6 oz Packs smaller than a soda can Quilt Enlightened Equipment Enigma 40°F 13 oz Compresses to a grapefruit Pillow Exped Air UL pillow (small) 1.6 oz Optional luxury Sleep Clothes Lightweight merino top + boxer briefs 6 oz Doubles as camp wear Total Sleep Weight: ~27 oz (765 g) Cooking vs. No-Cook No-cook: bars, wraps, cold soak jar. Minimal cook: Esbit/solid fuel stove + titanium mug. Coffee strategy: instant packets vs small UL brewer. Space/weight trade-off: ditch cook kit for luxury (camera, extra clothes). Where I land: Cold Soak System Plastic PB jar 2oz Utensil Long Ti spoon 0.5 oz Mug (if separate) MSR Titan 2.4 oz Food for 2 days Wraps, instant oatmeal, nuts, bars, jerky, instant coffee ~24 oz Water 1 L Smartwater bottle (frame-mounted) Total Cooking/Food Weight (excluding water): ~29 oz (820 g) Clothing & Tools No change of clothes on this one… one base layer, puffy jacket layer. Rain shell = big payoff for little space. Simple wool hat Micro tool kit: multi-tool, chain link, tiny pump, patch kit instead of spare tube. hygiene: Dr Bronner’s in smallest travel bottle, small camp towel, travel toothbrush. Where I land: Rain Shell Patagonia Houdini or OR Helium 6 oz Ultralight but reliable Insulation Layer Montbell Plasma 1000 puffy 5 oz Packs to palm size Extra Base Layer / socks Wool top + socks 5 oz For camp Toiletries Toothbrush, mini paste, Bronner’s, wet wipes 3 oz Minimalist hygiene Headlamp Nitecore NU25 1 oz USB rechargeable Total Clothing/Personal Weight: ~20 oz (570 g) Multitool Lezyne RAP II-12 3 oz Compact essentials Mini Pump Lezyne Pocket Drive 3 oz Mount to frame if possible Chain link / tape / zip ties / patch kit Small zip bag 1 oz Field repairs Phone + powerbank 10 000 mAh Anker 6 oz Also powers headlamp Map / ID / Credit Card — negligible “Ultralight credit card touring” insurance Total Tools/Misc Weight: ~13 oz (370 g) Packing Tetris Bottom: sleep system (quilt/compressed pad). Middle: shelter/tarp. Top: food/clothing. Outside: light rain shell/camp shoes? Safety & Bail Out Options Emergency bail plan: credit card, rideshare, motel. Weather veto: if forecast turns ugly, change trip. My Packed Total Category Weight Shelter 12 oz Sleep 27 oz Cooking/Food 29 oz Clothing/Personal 20 oz Tools/Misc 13 oz Total ~6.31 lb (2.86 kg) inside dry bag Conclusion Who this works for: weekenders, credit card tourists, fair-weather minimalists. Who it doesn’t: long winter trips, remote routes with no services, the comfort-oriented The psychological side of going this minimal: what you gain (freedom, simplicity) vs. what you lose (comfort, margin).
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A Game of Chance Revisited
10/24/2025
A Game of Chance Revisited
We're bringing back one of the wackiest ideas in Pedalshift history — the Game of Chance! Using random number generators and the excellent Adventure Cycling Association routes, it's an unpredictable coast-to-coast bike tour from the Pacific to the Atlantic. When every turn is determined by chance the results are... surprisingly awesome? In This Episode: Revisiting the “Game of Chance” touring experiment from 2021 Using randomness to pick routes across ACA’s national network Riding (and re-riding) the Pacific Coast, Northern Tier, Lewis & Clark, TransAm, and more Ferry crossings, backcountry climbs, and surprise state detours How randomness can spark new route ideas and winter planning inspiration Mentioned: Pacific Coast Route Lewis & Clark Trail Northern Tier TransAmerica Trail Great Divide, Great Parks, Lake Erie Connector The Route (as determined by chance): Segment Route(s) Start → End 1 Pacific Coast Anacortes, WA → Westport, OR 2 Lewis & Clark Westport, OR → Cascade Locks, OR 3 Sierra Cascades (North) Cascade Locks, OR → Twisp, WA 4 Northern Tier Twisp, WA → Eureka, MT 5 Great Parks North Eureka, MT → Missoula, MT 6 TransAm Missoula, MT → Walden, CO 7 TransAm (continued) Walden, CO → Springfield, MO 8 Bicycle Route 66 Springfield, MO → St. Louis, MO 9 Eastern Express Connector St. Louis, MO → Indianapolis, IN 10 Chicago–NYC + North Lakes Indianapolis, IN → Northern MI 11 Lake Erie Connector Sandusky, OH → Buffalo, NY (via Ontario) 12 Northern Tier Buffalo, NY → Bar Harbor, ME
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Best of Pedalshift 295: Making Your Tent Stealthier
10/16/2025
Best of Pedalshift 295: Making Your Tent Stealthier
Stealth camping is a great skill to develop and a fantastic option to have for emergencies or maybe even your main overnight plan on a bike tour. But what if your tent is so bright it can be seen from miles away? On this episode, we talk about what worked for my last tent and what I’m trying on my newer one. Originally podcast September 8, 2022. Making a Tent Stealthier The old tent – ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2 Spray panting the tarp Tarp was orange so it needed full coverage Used a matte forest green Took 3 full cans to cover (more than I expected) Then covered with a waterproofing spray (think KIWI brand) Tarp worked like a charm – water beaded off just like before Was stiffer and heavier than before Tarp has finally failed at the zippers so it needs to be replaced Color has also worn off over time, although it still is predominantly well covered The newer tent -ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2 (again) New tent is blue and very light gray, tarp is mostly the light gray Better than orange, but still needs stealthification Redditor recommended Rit dying I was a bit skeptical but decided to go for it Got 2 dark forest greens and 1 chocolate brown that was designed for nylon A lot of boiling water (9 gallons!) and a big bin Let it get in there overnight and… It sort of worked. It’s super brown on one side, but perhaps predictably the back of the tarp, not the water repellant side So, dye job is not recommended Before, during and after shots: What am I going to do? I have one tarp that is forest green but not terribly suitable for heavy rain I have another tarp that is very light gray and perfect for rain The reverse side is dark brown and not suitable for anything but dry weather I’m bringing *both* tarps for my next tour I can see where a brown tarp and a green tarp could help depending on where I’m tucked in I need to know I have a good rain option I don’t always need to be stealth The lineup No need for stealth? Use the new tarp in the normal position regardless of weather Stealth and dry? Use green tarp for tent and brown side out tarp for the bike (or maybe vice versa) Stealth and rain? Use the green tarp over the proper-side-out gray tarp. This is the least likely scenario in a way… if it’s really storming would people be out? Takeaways Folks, best bet is to get a tent with a slealthy tarp. They are weirdly hard to come by Dye? Not recommended Spray paint? Effective, but with its flaws.
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Takeaways
10/09/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Takeaways
The Mysterious Oregon Coast adventure is in the rearview mirror, but we always like to peek back before moving on. On this edition we marvel at the fun we had on a fairly cursed tour of some of our favorite parts of the Pacific coast! Bike prep is key — but stuff still breaks. Even a tiny crank arm pin can end a day. Know shops and backup transport. Have Plans A–F ready. Flexibility and quick pivots kept the ride alive when mechanicals hit. Buses & rideshares save tours. Coastal transit and surprise Ubers kept us moving. Greatest hits still feel fresh. Cape Lookout, South Beach, Newport — new vibes, upgrades, and slower pacing. Weather’s shifting. Got one classic foggy Yachats day, but most were sunnier/warmer — pack for both. Shorter mileage = more joy. 30–40 mi days let us linger in towns and stay energized. Hydrate & fuel early/often. Morning “camel up,” steady snacks, and Red Bulls beat last year’s bonk. Hotel nights reset morale. Lincoln City, Yachats, Florence stays turned stress into mini-vacations. Logistics flexibility saves cash. Mid-trip flight/car/hotel changes avoided big losses. Ditch the perfect plan. Embracing detours and improvisation brought back the adventure and fun
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 6
10/02/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 6
A leisurely morning at South Beach State Park sets the stage for what should be the triumphant finale, but James's bike has one last surprise in store. Sometimes a cursed bike adventure is the best kind. But with tire splits threatening the final miles and Eugene's punishing heat waiting ahead, will we actually make it to the finish line or become stranded out on the coast? Key Highlights South Beach State Park downgrade - Charging lockers removed, replaced with non-charging metal versions Classic Oregon coast weather returns - Fog, cool temperatures, and the riding conditions that originally attracted them Yachats exploration - First real visit to Tim's long-desired coast town (population: 800) Cape Perpetua finale - Tackling one of the coast's most challenging and scenic climbs Tire crisis intensifies - James's rear tire split worsens but limps to the finish Eugene revelation - $5 bus ride opens new coast access possibilities Route Details Day 1: South Beach to Yachats Short, rolling ride through Waldport and Seal Rock Classic foggy conditions with seagull air-surfing entertainment Hotel night in Yachats for town exploration Day 2: Yachats to Florence 25-mile challenge over Cape Perpetua Multiple climbs through "the windiest part of the Oregon coast" Cape Creek Tunnel navigation Final descent to Florence via Sea Lion Caves Yachats Assessment Population: 800 residents Vibe: Full spectrum from blue collar to "bougie-est of bougie" Tim's verdict: "Punches above its weight" for a small coastal town Accommodation: Ocean view hotel with perfect fog viewing Mechanical Drama Final Act James's tubeless tire split progressively worsens Tube begins protruding through tire damage Bike shop in Florence (Bicycles 101) permanently closed Tire successfully limps final 52 miles to completion Post-ride tire replacement arranged in Eugene Transportation Victory Florence to Eugene bus: Only $5 (compared to $17-20 Portland routes) Bus rack accommodates James's 29+ tire width with minor deflation Direct connection to Eugene's Amtrak station and airport Opens new coast access strategies for future tours Cultural Observations South Beach platforms: Composite decking mystery continues Book club continuation: Tim's author criticism ongoing Charging infrastructure: State park downgrades noted Coast tourism patterns: More cyclists spotted this year vs. last Food & Fuel Strategy Yachats: Fresh fish and chips (James's rare fish consumption) Cape Perpetua prep: High-calorie loading for big climbs Florence finale: Safeway provisions for final night Eugene heat preparation: Dramamine procurement Eugene Transition 89-90°F heat shock after cool coast weather Travel Lodge fan so impressive Tim orders same model for cabin Cold Fire Brewing pit stop with brisket and low-alcohol beers Hotel early check-in for heat recovery Statistics Miles Biked Day 1: 25 Miles Biked Day 2: 25 Total tour mileage: ~52% of original plan Florence to Eugene bus cost: $5 Eugene temperature: 90°F Flats: Zero
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 5
09/25/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 5
A well-rested morning in Lincoln City spawns what seems like a reasonable plan to salvage the cursed tour, but James's borrowed bike has other ideas entirely. But with tubleless tire disasters forcing yet another major pivot, will this newly condensed coastal adventure finally find its groove or continue spiraling into beautiful chaos? The New Plan (Before It All Changed Again) Today: Lincoln City to South Beach State Park via Newport Tomorrow: South Beach to Yachats for hotel exploration Final day: Yachats to Honeyman State Park near Florence Split: James continues south, Tim buses north to Eugene for flight home The Reality Check James's tubeless rear tire completely fails outside Bike Newport, requiring conversion to tube setup. Tire damage deemed too severe for continued long-distance touring, prompting complete itinerary overhaul. Key Highlights 5 AM Red Bull run - James's thoughtful breakfast procurement while Tim sleeps in Equipment curse continues - Second bike, same problems for James's borrowed setup Bike Newport saves the day - Last major bike shop on coast provides crucial tire conversion Strategic retreat activated - Both riders pivot to Eugene ending for maximum certainty Financial silver lining - Trip changes actually save money on cancelled Medford logistics Route Details Lincoln City to Newport: ~25 miles through official bike route (hilly and exhausting) Extended stop at Bike Newport for mechanical crisis management Final 4 miles to South Beach State Park Tomorrow: Abbreviated plan toward Florence before Eugene bus Mechanical Drama Timeline Morning discovery: Slow leak confirmed in James's tubeless rear tire Newport arrival: Tire immediately starts "spitting sealant" Shop diagnosis: Tire damage too severe for tubeless repair Solution: Convert to tube in rear, maintain tubeless front ("mullet setup") Reality check: Tube setup is temporary fix, not permanent solution Cultural Observations Newport bike route: Scenic but punishing for loaded touring South Beach State Park: Tim's favorite coast campground (tied with Cape Lookout) Yachats mystique: Tim's long-desired exploration of this coast town finally abandoned Eugene adventure: First-time visit for longtime Portland resident Tim Food & Beverage Strategy Breakfast: Red Bulls and bananas (James's 5 AM procurement mission) Newport: Extended hydration break during mechanical crisis Dinner: Beer One brewery (skipped lunch strategy) Evening: Junior Rangers fire ecology program spotted but not attended The Ship of Theseus Situation James notes he'll return a completely different bike to his friend after replacing virtually every component during the tour - a philosophical equipment conundrum. Statistics Miles Biked: 25 Original plan survival rate: 0% Hours spent at Bike Newport: 1.5 Ounces of tubeless sealant sacrificed: 6 Tubeless fails: yes Nontubeless flats: Zero
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 4
09/18/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 4
The morning starts strong at Cape Lookout with perfect James and Tim weather, but what begins as a confident push toward Beverly Beach slowly unravels into mechanical mayhem and decision-making paralysis. But with the original plan officially in shambles and multiple escape routes beckoning, will we unleash a suffer fest or pivot to something unexpected? Key Highlights Perfect weather conditions - cloudy and cool, exactly what Tim and James prefer for cycling Hydration revelation continues - Tim credits proper hydration for yesterday's success and focuses on "cameling up" each morning Pacific City pit stop - Tim's favorite Oregon coast town, featuring Stimulus Coffee House for snacks and wifi Mechanical troubles return - James's borrowed bike proves problematic again with rear tire issues Strategic retreat - Quick pivot from camping at Devil's Lake to a tiki-themed hotel in Lincoln City Planning paralysis - Original trip itinerary officially in question with multiple options on the table Route Details Departed Cape Lookout State Park early morning Stopped at Stimulus Coffee House in Pacific City (quarter-way point) Break at Neskowin Market before the big Lincoln City climb Final destination: Lincoln City hotel instead of planned Devil's Lake camping Bike Performance Notes Tim's bike performing excellently with great rolling and shifting Occasional gear hopping suggests minor tune-up needed Mostly riding in middle and first chainrings James's borrowed bike continuing to present challenges Food & Fuel Strategy Morning: Hydration focus plus caffeine Pacific City: Egg burrito repeat from successful Day 3 strategy Mid-ride: Red Bull for energy boost Lincoln City: Local Mexican restaurant meal (lunch/dinner hybrid) Decision Point Analysis Short day option: Devil's Lake camping (~40+ miles) Original plan: Beverly Beach (would have required 20 more miles plus significant climbing) Actual choice: Lincoln City hotel night for recovery and planning Statistics Miles Biked: ~40+ miles (shorter day due to mechanical issues) Hotel theme: Tiki (delightfully not high-end but perfectly located) Bird species that defeat earplugs: 1 (mystery frequency specialist) • • Flats: Zero
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 3
09/11/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 3
Mysterious James and I emerge from our three-night Cannon Beach odyssey to accidentally unlock our cycling superpowers, turning a modest Tillamook target into a shocking 52-mile triumph. It’s the usual stuff: ice cream as performance enhancer, and the stunning revelation that hydration might actually matter. But with tomorrow's weather turning and our schedule still behind, will this newfound confidence carry us forward or set us up for an epic crash? Key Highlights Morning departure from Cannon Beach with sunny weather (rain expected tomorrow) Arch Cape Tunnel challenge - one of the less enjoyable parts of the Oregon coast, but navigated successfully with proper lighting and safety gear Strong riding performance despite variable winds - tailwinds providing good speed, headwinds creating challenges around rivers and inlets Confidence boost as both riders felt strong throughout the day, a marked improvement from their struggles the previous day leaving Beaverton Hydration success - Tim credits focused hydration efforts for dramatically improved performance Cape Lookout State Park arrival - described as potentially "the best camp on the coast" with individual pod-like clearings and ocean wave sounds Route Details Departed Cannon Beach early morning Climbed through Arch Cape Tunnel to Manzanita (20-mile checkpoint) Continued south past Garibaldi and Bay City to Tillamook Extended ride from Tillamook to Cape Lookout State Park Riders met at Safeway in Tillamook for resupply (chicken strips and ice cream) Camp Review: Cape Lookout State Park Pros: - Excellent location directly on the coast - Individual pod-like campsites with perfect flat ground - Beautiful ocean wave sounds - Great overall facilities Cons: - Long walk to bathhouse/showers - Charging stations only have USB-A ports (no USB-C or standard 110V outlets) Tomorrow's Plan Targeting Beverly Beach as the main goal South Beach as potential stretch goal (though 70 miles seems too ambitious) Weather forecast: overcast and cool - ideal "James and Tim weather" Still working out end-of-week logistics due to being behind schedule Technology MVP Perplexity AI proving invaluable for route planning and logistics, including confirming their direct route choice over the longer ACA (Adventure Cycling Association) scenic route. Statistics Miles Biked: 52 Times Tim arrived before James: 2 (hmm… that’s not normal. Foreshadowing…) Power of James's insane phone charger: 100 watts Consecutive nights at Cannon Beach: 3 (do I need to declare it as a part time residence this year?) • • Flats: Zero
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 2
09/04/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 2
Day two and three of the Oregon Coast tour evolve into an epic quest for an elusive bicycle part. Is this a mere repair mission or a saga worthy of Greek mythology with adaptive problem-solving, multiple contingency plans, long-distance bus adventures, heat stroke avoidance, and kind bike shop professionals who go above and beyond? Day Two Morning - Plan Multiplication Late wake-up due to flexible schedule Pig and Pancake breakfast at classic Oregon Coast institution 10:30 AM: First Seaside shop call - negative result 12:00 PM: Multiple plan permutations discussed off-mic Decision to purchase additional campsite night for gear security The Great Plan Cascade Plan A: Dead on arrival (Seaside shop #1) Plan B: Dead at noon (Seaside shop #2) Multiple Portland options considered and analyzed Ian consultation reveals Monday/Tuesday availability conflicts Plan F: Warrenton option with Ed the Legend emerges 50/50 assessment of success probability based on Ed's memory Day Two Leisure Activities Haystack Rock exploration and beach time Two consecutive meals at Pelican Brewery Server confusion when Tim and James reversed their lunch/dinner orders Extended campsite stay and gear planning sessions Day Three - The Portland Pivot Early morning departure preparation and coffee Bus route research reveals 2.8-inch tire compatibility issues Warrenton bus only runs twice daily, next departure at 5:50 PM Strategic decision: Portland certainty over Warrenton uncertainty Critical discovery: Portland bus stops in Beaverton near Universal Cycles The Beaverton Solution Successful mid-route bus exit in Beaverton 12-18 minute walk to Universal Cycles in 90-degree heat Online inventory confirmation: 8 units in stock Successful charm deployment for installation service Same-day return bus to Cannon Beach secured Statistics Plan iterations reached: 26 maybe 100 Bus route options analyzed: 3 Bike shops contacted/visited: 5 Days with minimal cycling: 2 Temperature differential: 30 From a chilly marine layer in Cannon Beach to 90°F blazing sun in Beaverton Flats: 0 Notable Quotes "Plan F. We think from plan double Z" - Tim on the ever-evolving situation "It's a coin flip" - James assessing Warrenton success probability "Don't let us down. Don't let us down." - High expectations for Universal Cycles "We need a win" - Emotional state after multiple plan failures
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 1
08/28/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 1
Day one of an Oregon coast adventure - what could possibly go wrong? As Mysterious James and I began our journey from Astoria after navigating July 4th rental car details, we encounter (because of course) the first of many issues we’ll encounter on the most mysterious of Oregon Coast adventures ever. Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Part 1 Morning, Turned Afternoon Departure 1:00 PM start time after bike assembly and hotel checkout Bikes transported in rental car not designed for two bikes TSA inspection didn’t damage gear (deraileur hanger protection removed) Successful bike reassembly and adjustment The Ride Begins Largely flat terrain - unusual for Oregon Coast Two notable climbs between departure and Seaside Decision to shorten day from Nehalem Bay to Cannon Beach Use of Perplexity AI to find alternative "off-book" campsite a success Seaside Stop & Food Strategy Delightful lunch that both riders "really needed" Tim's nutrition timing issues affecting performance Plan to shop for breakfast supplies at local market The Mechanical Crisis James's left crank arm completely falls off while riding to market Discovery of tiny pin mechanism in Shimano crank arm Initial DIY repair attempts fail spectacularly Kind local offers help but problem proves beyond field repair Professional Intervention Bike shop discovery 470 feet away in Cannon Beach Ian at local rental shop (also starting bike repair services) Diagnosis: stripped internal teeth, unrepairable in field Shop closing at 7:30 PM but Ian stays to help The Damage Assessment Left crank arm completely stripped internally Cannot be field-repaired Options: Replace single crank arm or entire crankset Potential multi-day delay due to Sunday/Monday shop closures Contingency Planning Morning departure to Seaside bike shops (two available) Transportation options: Uber (surprisingly available) or bus service Multiple backup plans if repair takes longer Flexibility to modify entire tour routing if needed Technical Details Equipment failure: Shimano crank arm with pin retention system Daily mileage: Approximately 30 miles completed Terrain: Two moderate climbs for Oregon Coast standards Upcoming challenge: Arch Cape Tunnel (uphill tunnel on Highway 101) Local Insights Cannon Beach: Block-by-block character variation Seaside: Extremely crowded July 5th weekend Tourism impact: Half of Portland/Seattle metro areas visiting simultaneously Bike infrastructure: Limited bike parking in tourist areas Lessons Learned Try DIY first - But know when to seek professional help Rental shops can be repair shops - Ian's dual business model Community support - Locals willing to help stranded cyclists Flexibility is key - Every PedalShift tour goes sideways at some point Tour Philosophy Discussion Expectation that something will go wrong on every tour Value of riding companions with compatible problem-solving approaches Benefits of building in extra days and flexible routing Options to modify tour scope based on circumstances Looking Ahead Immediate goal: Get James's bike repaired in Seaside Backup plans: Shortened tour, bus connections, or complete rerouting Distance flexibility: 20-30 mile days vs. 55-mile days depending on circumstances Route options: Continue south vs. return north via Portland Notable Quotes "All bike tours in the PedalShift universe go sideways at some point" "There are worse places in the world to be stranded" "It depends on the block you're on" (describing Seaside) "We expect something to go sideways at some point, and you just deal with it" Statistics Miles biked 30 Percentage of crank arms that did not fail 75 Distance in feet from Ian’s Cannon Beach bike rental -slash- shop 475 Cumulative nights spent in Cannon Beach (so far) 1 Flats zero
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Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Preview
08/21/2025
Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Preview
We are so back.... on the Oregon Coast with the Mysterious James for another round of two-wheeled mayhem. Ten days, 360 miles, zero expectations, and maximum potential for randomness. The Safari's ready, MJ is in, and we're about to find out if bike touring is really dying or just hiding. Spoiler alert: it's gonna be a wild ride. Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 Preview Route Preview •Start: Astoria, OR (mile marker 0 or 360, depending on your perspective) •End: Crescent City, CA (for Tim); James continues on to the Bay Area •Duration: 10 days with a flexible buffer day •Notable overnight stops (planned or likely): •Nehalem Bay State Park (newly renovated!) •Pacific City (Webb Campground… maybe) •South Beach State Park (for access to Newport breweries) •Honeyman State Park (newer, flatter hiker/biker site) •Humbug Mountain State Park •Harris Beach State Park •Potential zero day or break-up of the tough Humbug → Harris Beach stretch •No planned fast-forwards, unless absolutely necessary. Camping and Lodging Notes •Prioritizing Oregon’s legendary hiker/biker campgrounds. •Watching for options to split up tougher days if needed. •No hotels booked mid-ride… but maybe one after. Health & COVID Precautions •Recent exposure to COVID before departure. •Testing negative but traveling with: •N95 masks •At-home test kits •A solid commitment to not being “that guy” on the coast Gear and Bike Setup •Bike: The classic Safari (not the e-bike — those batteries don’t fly) •Derailleur hanger fixed after some Oregon baggage trauma last year •Bags and Packing: •Rear panniers only (probably no front rack) •Dry bag strapped to handlebars •Possibly a rack-top bag or extra dry bag for groceries •Tent & Sleep Kit: Same trusty gear as usual •Clothing: •Two sun hoodies, maybe a few tees •Minimal civilian clothes •One pair of riding pants, maybe a second pair •Hat, gloves (maybe), sleep clothes •Kitchen: •Might skip the stove — James likely bringing one •Planning to mooch hot water as needed •Hydration & Nutrition: •Bringing water cube + personal bottle •Salt/electrolyte tablets recommended by a listener •Stroopwafels as ride fuel (solid choice) Weather Forecast •Classic Oregon coast summer: mid-60s highs, mid-50s lows, mostly dry •Tailwinds expected •Perfect conditions for coastal touring The State of Touring •Fewer cyclists seen in recent years — why? •Aging of the boomer “bikecentennial” generation •More folks opting for trail or gravel rides •General safety concerns on roadways •ACA is selling its HQ in Missoula and going fully remote — a sign of shifting tides? •This ride may be another data point in the evolution of bike touring What to Expect •Conversations and stories with James •Challenges, route decisions, campground reviews, and food stops •A mix of reflective commentary and classic on-the-road storytelling Coming Up… •Next episode kicks off the Mysterious Oregon Coast 2025 tour proper •Get ready for on-the-ground updates, audio postcards, and the real-time unfolding of the adventure
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Best of Pedalshift 321: East Coast Greenway
08/14/2025
Best of Pedalshift 321: East Coast Greenway
Despite living on the east coast, we spend a whole heck of a lot of attention on bicycle adventures on the west coast, right? Well, it’s time we changed that! On this episode, we chat with Regina Yan about the East Coast Greenway, her epic trip and how she and the East Coast Greenway Alliance is making this route a contender for all of our future cycling adventures! Originally podcast April 28, 2023.
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Lake Ontario 2025 Takeaways
08/07/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 Takeaways
Six days, two countries, multiple ferries, and one very stubborn e-bike brake magnet later, the Lake Ontario circumnavigation attempt has wrapped up in ways both expected and completely unforeseen. What started as an ambitious 540-mile loop around one of the Great Lakes became a masterclass in adventure adaptation, international border logistics, and the reality of shoulder season touring. On this episode, takeaways from a trip that delivered lessons extending far beyond the original route plan. Lake Ontario 2025 Takeaways 1. Plan for Ferry Contingencies Ferry schedules can be unreliable, especially early or late in the season. The US-Canada ferry that was supposed to be running for Memorial Day weekend simply wasn't operational, despite being a critical piece of the route. Always have backup plans for ferry-dependent routes and call ahead rather than assuming seasonal schedules are accurate. 2. E-bike Mechanical Knowledge is Essential This adventure nearly ended before it began due to a simple brake magnet issue that couldn't be initially diagnosed. If you're planning to tour with an e-bike, invest time in learning the electrical components and common failure points. Carry backup magnets, electrical tape, and basic electrical tools. 3. Weight Distribution Matters More on E-bikes The combination of heavy batteries, chargers, and touring gear created concerns about spoke and wheel integrity on a bike not designed for that load. Consider front panniers or other weight distribution solutions when carrying substantial battery backup systems for longer tours. 4. International Border Crossings Require Flexibility International bike touring adds layers of complexity that can derail plans. Without vehicle backup, a cyclist would have been stranded when the expected ferry crossing wasn't running. Research multiple crossing points and have contingency transportation options for international routes. 5. E-bikes Excel at "Twice the Speed, Half the Effort" Consistently maintaining 20+ mph with moderate effort effectively doubles your range compared to acoustic cycling. This opens up longer day rides and different touring philosophies - you can cover more ground in less time or take more time to explore without distance pressure. 6. Shoulder Season Has Trade-offs Riding in late May meant fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, but also meant many seasonal services weren't yet operational. Consider what matters more for your trip: solitude and cooler weather, or full service availability and guaranteed open businesses. 7. Battery Management is Both Psychological and Practical Having two batteries completely eliminated range anxiety and changed the entire riding approach. The faster-charging newer battery became primary, with the backup providing peace of mind. Invest in quality charging equipment and understand your system's charging capabilities and timing. 8. Vehicle-Supported Adventures Have Merit While purists might prefer self-supported touring, hybrid approaches can still deliver meaningful bike experiences while providing important safety nets. Sometimes adapting your adventure style is better than canceling entirely when plans go sideways. 9. Memorial or Meaningful Rides Can Evolve Despite not completing the original circumnavigation plan, the spiritual goal of honoring family through cycling around meaningful places was still achieved. The intention and connection to place often matters more than perfect execution of your original route. 10. Equipment Confidence Takes Time and Experience The relationship with the e-bike evolved from skeptical to confident over the course of the trip. Don't expect immediate comfort with new bike setups - allow for a learning curve and consider adventures like this as extended shakedown rides for future longer tours. Bonus Insight: Toronto Island proved to be an unexpected highlight, demonstrating that some of the best bike touring moments come from unplanned discoveries when you maintain flexibility to explore interesting detours.
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 7
07/31/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 7
What was supposed to be a triumphant border crossing and final push from Niagara Falls back to the starting point became something entirely different when family health concerns required an immediate pivot. But sometimes the best laid plans need to be set aside for what actually matters, and day six became about completing the ride in the way it was always meant to end - with a proper beginning and a proper finish, both by bike, both connected to the places and people that made this whole adventure meaningful in the first place. Lake Ontario 2025: Part 7 Statistics Miles biked: 10.2 Number of times the difference between towns and villages in New York was explained: 1 (and hopefully that's enough) Conversations with Good Samaritans about unconscious people on bike paths: 1 Root intrusions that could be classified as kidney shakers: 4 Battery anxiety level on a scale of 1-10: 0 Municipalities referenced 4 Flats: 0
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 6
07/24/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 6
Transitioning from from the peaceful Toronto Island back into the urban sprawl of southern Ontario is a bit of a record scratch I’ll more thoroughly experience when I eventually ride this ride, but a fast forward to a stunning Niagara Falls hotel leads to an extensive e-bike exploration of the Niagara River and Falls area. But plans always have a way of changing and this day was no different. Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 6 Toronto Island Farewell Final morning walk through the quiet island community Observations on the unique housing stock and lifestyle Discussion of waiting lists and the appeal of island living Apple tree sightings continuing the Lake Ontario apple theme Hotel with a View Check-in at a dated but perfectly positioned Niagara Falls hotel Room with an "outrageous" view directly overlooking Horseshoe Falls Plans to bring dinner back to the room due to the unbeatable vista Discussion of off-season pricing and business travel perks Vehicle Talk Introduction to the new Toyota RAV4 plugin hybrid Upcoming camping drawer system installation Comparison to previous vehicle setups Teasing of a major summer adventure Navigation Adventures Challenges finding the proper cycling route to Niagara Parkway Discovery of abandoned rail right-of-way Multiple elevation changes due to the Niagara Escarpment Eventually finding the correct riverside path Hydroelectric Discovery Learning about the Niagara Tunnel Project - 10.2 km underground tunnel Understanding how power generation works 40 meters below the river surface Observing the transformation from calm upstream waters to rushing rapids Multiple spillways and control structures Falls Experience Cycling directly along the Niagara River as it approaches the falls Walking the bike through crowded tourist areas Experiencing mist from both American and Horseshoe Falls International tourism observations Discussion of why this isn't a national/provincial park Family Matters Mid-episode phone call requiring attention to family health issues Decision to return home earlier than planned Reflection on how circumstances aligned properly for the situation Looking Ahead Announcement of a "proper" Day 6 episode Plans to complete the original intended route from mother's former home to current home Postponement of international border crossing for future adventure Statistics Miles biked 6 Number of Superman II references 3 Outrageous parking cost at the hotel 45 CAD Length in seconds of the full color cycle of the falls lighting at night 69 (nice) iPod dockable clock radios in the hotel that are so vintage as to be worth way more than the hotel probably thinks 1 Flats 0
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 5
07/17/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 5
Toronto! The biggest city in Canada beckoned with its record shops, high energy and criminally underrated cycling on the islands off shore. With a basketball arena parking spot and my kind of weather, TO was ready to welcome me with open arms… Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 5 🚗 Parking + Arrival in Toronto •Parking garage setup with EV charging — 24 hours for 24 CAD, prime downtown location. •Thoughts on Cybertrucks (spoiler: not a fan). •Quick record shop detour before rolling out. 🚲 Urban E-bike Sprint to the Ferry •Navigating Toronto traffic to make the ferry in time. •First glimpses of the Harborfront Trail and ferry terminal success. ðŸ›³ï¸ Ferry to the Islands •On board the William Lingus (insert SNL reference). •Observations on Toronto Island’s regulars and off-season calm. ðŸï¸ Exploring Toronto Island by E-bike •Discovering the island’s unique layout — car-lite, license-limited. •Big marina views and rear-view cityscapes. •Moody, Oregon Coast-like weather setting the tone. ☕ Cafés, Birds & Black Squirrels •Coffee shop scouting and parking time calculations. •Noticing Toronto Island’s charm: cardinals, fire stations, and disc golf. 📸 CN Tower Skyline Shot of the Day •Photo stop at a postcard-perfect harbor: ducks, loons, and urban backdrop. •Tangent on the CN Tower’s claim to fame and photographic techniques. ðŸŒ§ï¸ Light Rain, Green Spaces, and Island Vibes •Embracing the drizzle in classic bike touring style. •Pedal-assist set low to savor the scenery and solitude. •Disc golf, beaches, and lots of benches — the quiet off-season character. 🎡 Amusement Park Detour •Riding through a closed kiddie amusement park and petting zoo. •Peacock spotting and the return of Muppet-inspired names (Kermit Fog, anyone?). •Funnel cake cravings and childhood park nostalgia. 🕠Center Island + Beer Dreams •Discovery of the Toronto Island BBQ and Beer Co. •Harbor views and light snack planning before continuing the ride. âœˆï¸ Quest for the Airport •Meandering west toward Hanlan’s Point and the Billy Bishop City Airport. •Geeking out over planes, windsocks, and off-limits fencing. •A side of Toronto most tourists never see. ðŸ³ï¸ðŸŒˆ Historic Discovery: Canada’s Oldest Queer Space •Hanlan’s Point signage reveals a legacy of LGBTQ+ community since 1971. •Reflections on inclusivity, history, and the spirit of the island. ðŸ—ºï¸ Full Island Traverse & Wrap-up •Realization that the “Toronto Islands” are really one big, bikeable park. •Rain resumes just in time for the ride back. •Cozy Airbnb vibes: lilac trees, woodland cottages, and coffee-fueled reflection. 🚨 Day 4 Reflections •Just 10 miles ridden, but packed with discovery and beauty. •Looking ahead to Niagara Falls and planning the next cycling routes. Statistics Miles biked 10 Closed amusement parks featuring obvious IP theft 1 High temperature in Celsius 12 Records purchased 1 Poutineries visited 1 (a solid 8 stars) Flats 0
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 4
07/10/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 4
This portion of the trip was always going to be a question mark - what kind of biking will there be? Will it be fun? Will I be looking too much ahead to more obviously notable places like Toronto and Niagara Falls? Wolfe Island once again answers the call! Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 4 🚲 Ride Overview •Starting the day from Wolf Island, Ontario •A late start, but with a scenic route west to Sandy Point •Focus on a relaxed e-bike ride due to a tight ferry schedule 🌞 Weather & Ride Conditions •Sunny and pleasantly warm, a bit hotter than ideal •Wind off the lake keeping things cooler •Reflections on how the late May weather still feels like early spring in Ontario ðŸ› ï¸ Gear & Tech Check •E-bike powered up and performing well •Toolkit left behind—risky move noted •Ongoing commentary on wide tires, limestone trails, and pedal assist levels •Big win: no brake issues from frequent wheel removal 📠Destinations & Detours •Attempt to visit Big Sandy Bay—blocked by entry fee and bike restrictions •Scenic return loop around the island •Stop in Bath, Ontario for a legendary lakeside poutine at Fry 33 🧠Navigation Notes •Avoiding Highway 401 in favor of more bike-friendly, scenic backroads •Provincial Route 33 (aka Loyalist Parkway) praised for good shoulders and low traffic •Transition from island terrain to mainland cottage country ðŸ›³ï¸ Ferry Fun •Quick ferry crossings as part of the day’s travel •Love letter to ferries: bike, vehicle, passenger—doesn’t matter, all good •Plans to use ferries again in future trips (Seattle foreshadowing) ðŸ Accommodations •Overnight stay in Colborne, Ontario •Modest Airbnb geared toward truckers, with diner and Tim Hortons nearby 🧠Reflections & Takeaways •E-bike confidence fully restored (it was just a magnet issue!) •Ride offered a mix of natural beauty, tech success, and route experimentation •Anticipation builds for upcoming Toronto exploration at the “speed of bike” Statistics Miles biked 15 Poutine stops 1 Number of stars for the poutine stop 44 Ferries ferried 2 Flats 0
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 3
07/03/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 3
So the ebike is a brick in the back of my Rav4, but it still works like a normal bike, so let’s keep going! But a sudden realization may provide the solution to unlock all the battery goodness, just as another stunning discovery makes me realize, this trip’s Plan B was all meant to be. Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 3 Hotel pack-up & quick diagnosis Morning in Oswego, NY. Realizes the motor cut-off is just a loose brake-lever magnet. Simple electrical/duct-tape fix brings the e-bike back to life. Route planning & launch Scraps the closed Cape Vincent ferry idea decides to drive the east shore of Lake Ontario, scouting state parks and quieter wildlife areas instead of sticking to busy parks. Lake-side stops Quick visit to Black Pond Wildlife Management Area (too restricted for bikes). Heads north to Westcott Beach State Park for a short beach walk, photos, and a quick battery test run. Drive to Canada Long detour to the Thousand Islands bridge (the only open crossing) because the south-end Wolf Island ferry is closed. Smooth Canadian customs stop; grabs ice cream and activates a Canadian eSIM for data. Kingston → Wolf Island ferry Misses the boat by two cars; 80-minute wait becomes a snack-and-people-watch session. Free ferry ride over; hotel is literally a block from the dock. Marysville check-in Rustic ground-floor room, lake view, no A/C needed. Drops bags, scopes dinner options (hotel café). Evening e-bike shake-down 14-mile out-and-back along Route 95 to the shuttered U.S. ferry dock on the south tip. Cruises at ~20 mph, marvels at wind turbines, farmland scenery, and micro-climates. Confirms minimal battery draw and re-affirms “twice the speed, half the effort” mantra. Wrap-up reflections Happy the brake glitch happened early—it forced a car assist and avoided being stranded. Wolf Island deemed a stellar, low-traffic cycling spot; sets intentions for next day’s ride and keeps an eye on looming Toronto weather. Statistics Miles biked 15 Closed ferry terminals visited 2 Open ferry terminals visited 2 Missed ferries 1 Denomination of Canadian currency that may or may not smell like maple syrup unless the bartender was trolling me 50 Flats 0
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 2
06/26/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 2
Episode 404? Isn’t 404 a website error? Well part 2 of the Lake Ontario adventure corrects for the very serious 404 we had with the ebike. Still a mystery, but we’re recovering and adventuring by bike in amazing towns like Sodus Point and Oswego, exploring apple orchard memories and historic nuclear power plants in between. Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 2 Abandoning the E-Bike Dream (For Now) The electric bike project is benched due to reliability issues Reflections on bike trust, touring logistics, and rethinking the approach New trip plan: use the RAV4 Prime to support bike day rides Pre-Booked Lodging Dilemma All lodging was pre-booked and non-refundable How that shifted priorities to maximize the trip by driving to each spot The “acoustic” bike becomes the tour hero Day One Route & Destination Base: North of Webster, NY Original plan scrapped; new mission: mini bike adventures in each locale Exploring route options en route to Oswego, NY Riding Past a Nuclear Legacy Passing the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant on Lake Road A personal memory and historical reflection on the 1982 radioactive steam release Commentary on U.S. nuclear energy anxiety vs. European acceptance Beechwood State Park to Sodus Point Ride Decides to ride directly from Sodus Point due to better parking and facilities Observations of the ride: comfortable unloaded, with scenic lake views Reflections on Sodus Point, tiki bars, and surprisingly modern homes A Sentimental Apple Orchard Memory Flashback to camping with dad in a lakeside orchard Emotional moment recalling powdered milk, childhood camping trips, and family history Reflection on development replacing orchards with McMansions Lunch, Tiki Bars, and Town Vibes Tiki bar surprise: Jack’s Good Time Tavern! Bike parking logistics and electric vehicle charging frustrations Exploring local businesses Bonus Ride to Sodus Point Beach Park Beautiful weather, sandy beach, and kite-filled skies Soaking in the views with the acoustic bike and good mic in tow Ferry Fiasco Averted Critical discovery: the expected ferry from Oswego isn’t operating Realization: the whole trip could’ve collapsed if not for the car-based pivot Learning: Always confirm ferry schedules Oswego River + Downtown Bike Loop Late-day ride along Oswego’s waterfront and Cahill Pier Thoughts on Oswego’s economic history, SUNY Oswego, and bike-friendly waterfront Scenic photo ops with a sailboat and lighthouse Infrastructure Observations Comments on visible power plants, nuclear and traditional Reflections on energy production, environment, and how the infrastructure shapes the town Memory-Making in Motion How a disappointing start turned into a meaningful, flexible, and scenic experience New appreciation for blending car support with bike touring Looking ahead: next stop, Canada – via car, not ferry Statistics Miles biked 10 Nuclear power plants 2 Tiki bars in Sodus Point 2 Kite flying festivals attended 1 Misidentified rivers 1 Flats 0
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Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 1
06/19/2025
Lake Ontario 2025 - Part 1
Folks, if you've followed this pod for any length of time you know my bike adventures usually have a component that goes sideways. But has it ever happened before a single pedal stroke? Can the Lake Ontario adventure survive something like that? Lake Ontario 2025: Part 1 Packing anxiety: two batteries, 90+ mile days, and a lot of unknowns My ride strategy: charging on the go and treating watts like water Leaving from my parents’ home—why this ride had emotional weight First day jitters: range, elevation, and pannier paranoia The moment everything stopped working: my e-bike breakdown in real time How I pivoted the tour and found a way to ride anyway Preview of what’s next: Plan B Statistics Miles Biked 0 Borked ebikes 1 Flats 0
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402: Lake Ontario 2025 Preview
06/12/2025
402: Lake Ontario 2025 Preview
After years of circling this ride (pun intended) it’s time to do a lap of the lake that I’ve lived near for a big chunk of my early life. Would it have been easier to pick a smaller lake? Sure. But Lake Ontario truly is a Great Lake in the sense it is surrounded by diverse and interesting places we’ll discover together. Lake Ontario 2025 Preview The basics About 540 miles Two countries, two border crossings Ferries galore All roofed lodging Rural stops and big cities Driving ebike to WNY that is the beginning and end of the loop The weather Warm days and cool nights Mixed bag for rain and dry The gear eBike - biggest ride yet! Brooks saddle pulled from Brompton for more comfort Rewrapped my bar end extenders to improve comfort Batteries and chargers = biggest weight Riding very light otherwise… 2 days of riding clothes I’ll wash each night plus a set of "civilian" clothes and rain gear Bringing more tools in to handle bigger ticket issues Tightening down everything in advance The highlights Memorial trip for my dad Checking off some boxes - new to me, international, cool places Lakeside lodging in a few places Multiple ferries, including intl crossing Toronto island stay - true Lake Ontario vibes with killer views of TO Niagara Falls (probably!) Weird Tim tourism: Love Canal! Be ready for history talk of American pollution! A different route to the Erie Canal towpath The challenges Distance - despite the ebike, we’re looking at some 90 mile days and that could be rough? Time in saddle - haven’t had good long days in the saddle since February ebike - can it handle this? Sure? Maybe? rural spots tough for a bailout unfamiliar places in Ontario until Toronto and even then… new to me by bike
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401: LA Metrobike Adventure
06/05/2025
401: LA Metrobike Adventure
What happens when you’ve only got one day in Los Angeles, a conference that demands your physical presence, and a red-eye flight back home? You grab a Metrobike and explore, of course! On this edition, it’s a whirlwind bike share adventure from the hilly streets of Westwood to the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk and a race for that flight home. Los Angeles Metrobike Adventure Intro: •Location: Westwood, California •Reason: Quick trip for an AI conference •Game plan: Metrobike adventure from UCLA to Venice Beach and eventually towards LAX The Plan: •$5 Metrobike day pass – unlimited rides, 30-minute increments •The challenge: avoid overage charges by dock hopping •Route: UCLA → Santa Monica → Venice Beach → Marina Del Rey → Playa Vista The Adventure: •First leg: Downhill from UCLA, navigating LA traffic with Google Maps guidance •Observations: •Westwood’s hilly terrain •Santa Monica’s tight bike dock situation •Smooth greenways mixed with sketchy alley shortcuts •A visit to the Bad News Bears park and some nostalgic nods •Quick Trader Joe’s stop for hydration Beach Time: •Arrival in Venice Beach—Paddle Tennis, Muscle Beach, and all the usual suspects •The surprising absence of a convenient bike dock near LAX •Decision point: Walk or hop on the #3 bus? •Marina Del Rey and the bougie vibes… plus the quest for fish tacos The Wrap-Up: •Arrival back at the Hyatt Regency by LAX •Final thoughts: A grand adventure squeezed into a single LA day •Reflections on the joy of exploring with a time crunch and a bike share pass Statistics Miles Traveled: 15 Metrobike Docks: 5 Elevation Change: 400 feet Cost of the Entire Ride: $5 Flats: Zero
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Spring Break: Filling in the Blanks Part 2
05/29/2025
Spring Break: Filling in the Blanks Part 2
Part 2 of 2. My three day weekend tour was about to be washed out by the remnants of yet another hurricane rolling through the area. And since the C&O isn’t exactly the best trail in a soaker, it was a good idea to reverse course and head back to my cabin. But would the tropical gusher wipe me out or would my “special” river crossing be impossible to traverse?
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Spring Break: Filling in the Blanks Part 1
05/22/2025
Spring Break: Filling in the Blanks Part 1
They say you only live once and some people shorten that up to YOLO, turn that into a verb and make questionable decisions. Sometimes that’s a pathway to adventure. And sometimes, it’s a convenient excuse to do things you aren’t supposed to. On my first day to complete a full ride of the C&O in 2020, I YOLO’d more than I typically YOLO.
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Spring Break: Clean-Up Tour Part 2
05/15/2025
Spring Break: Clean-Up Tour Part 2
I'd ridden an ok amount that year, but to be honest, as the year was winding down I realized there were two spots I always hit that I haven't been to yet. So I needed to play a little clean up and get wheels down on those two gems! In part 2, I revisit one of my favorite campsites… maybe one of my single favorite places I can get to from home, by bike!
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Spring Break: Clean-Up Tour Part 1
05/08/2025
Spring Break: Clean-Up Tour Part 1
I'd ridden an ok amount that year, but to be honest, as the year was winding down I realized there were two spots I always hit that I haven't been to yet. So I needed to play a little clean up and get wheels down on those two gems! In part 1, I tackle the big hill on the Cumberland side of the Great Allegheny Passage!
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Spring Break: A Game of Chance - Part 2
05/01/2025
Spring Break: A Game of Chance - Part 2
As I said last time… sometimes bad ideas go good, and good ideas go bad. And then there’s the latest bonkers idea of a tour I had… a game of chance. In the final installment, we learn preparation can sometimes be the key to a good tour, or it can mean you carry a lot in your panniers more for show. Originally podcast October 28, 2021.
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