The Pedalshift Project: Bicycle Touring Podcast

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

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

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

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? 

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.

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!

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!

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.

Sometimes bad ideas go good, and good ideas go bad. And then there's the bonkers idea of a tour I had… a game of chance. In the first of two parts, let's see how random selection of route, direction and more makes for a tour. Where are we going – chance decides! Originally podcast October 21, 2011.

Four hundred episodes into this project, we gathered together on April 11, 2025 for a live show to celebrate the occasion. On this edition I revealed a new tour, announced a short spring break (with episodes, never fear!), and did some Ask Me Anythings! Pedalshift 400 Live Hey check out the video if that's your bag... https://www.youtube.com/live/EJfDdaQDgeE?si=NruP9cvgb0mgY8ip   Introduction •Tim kicks off Episode 400 live with listeners in the chat •Reflects on 10+ years of podcasting, over 1.3 million downloads •Expresses gratitude to listeners and the broader bike travel community   Shout-Outs & Tributes •Listener shout-outs: •Forrest from Whitehorse on the GAP Trail •Byron and the Sprocket listener crossover poll (results were a 50/50 split) •Tribute to The Sprocket Podcast: •Final episode recently released •Strong influence on Pedalshift's creation •Encourages new listeners to explore the Sprocket back catalog •Shared values and crossover episodes remembered fondly   Tour Reveal: Circumnavigating Lake Ontario •Dedicated to Tim's late father; the lake was important to him •Starting in Western New York, likely near Tim's mother's home •Full loop around Lake Ontario •Using the e-bike with a second battery for extended range •No camping: entirely hotel or Airbnb lodging •Expected duration: under a week •Part of 2025 goals: new route, international travel, expanded e-bike touring   Pedalshift Spring Break •First planned break in podcast history (show remains weekly) •Begins April 24, 2025 •Through May, rebroadcasting selected past mini-tours: •Game of Chance Tour •Cleanup Tour •Fill in the Blanks Tour •New content returns in June with: •Los Angeles Metro Bike Adventure (Episode 401) •Lake Ontario Tour coverage begins with Episode 402   Ask Me Anything (Live Chat Q&A)   Tour Planning and Equipment •Uses RideWithGPS, Google Maps, and Street View for route planning •Recommends overlays like RideWithGPS heatmaps for checking route popularity •Apple Notes is the go-to tool for organizing transit and fast-forward trips •Safari and Brompton are the most used bikes for local/urban riding •Gravel/dirt touring is appealing, especially with proper gear; has done C&O and Erie Canal •Tour terrain preference: tie between forested and coastal routes   C&O Canal Guidance •Cumberland to DC is a favorable direction due to logistics and parking •Recommends Harper's Ferry to Shepherdstown segment for beginners   Tour Ideas and Alternatives •Florida ride likely to be retired after repeated versions •Considering Arizona desert rides, Florida Keys, or San Diego to Phoenix •Airline logistics (especially Southwest policy changes) influence decision-making •Possibility of international touring (Europe later in 2025, Australia someday)   Fun Pop Culture AMA •Favorite Prince songs to bike to: •Let's Go Crazy •Seven (all-time favorite) •Raspberry Beret, Purple Rain, 1999 also mentioned •Brief discussion of cycling music and personal playlist choices   Future Travel Hints •Canada's Lake Ontario loop is Tim's first true international bike tour •Possibility of a short European ride in late summer 2025 •Dreaming of riding in Australia during shoulder seasons   Closing Remarks •Gratitude to listeners and live show participants •Encouragement to get out and ride, share stories, and connect with community •Next live show planned for later in the year •Spring break content begins April 24, new episodes resume in June  

It's planning season for spring and summer tours! But if you're in the US or planning a bike adventure here, there's some real question marks about our national park system. From budget cuts to layoffs and reinstatements to ever-increasing demand… is this the right year to consider a trip through Yellowstone or Shenandoah?  Pedalshift 400 Live Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET - 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well? What's Happening with US National Parks in 2025? •Brief overview of the budget situation: potential closures, service reductions, delayed seasonal openings February firing of a category of federal employees Buyout offer to some employees Just recently a court order led to reinstatement of them Still a huge gap in the staffing needed for the increasing demand •Types of services at risk: ranger programs, campground availability, road maintenance, shuttle systems, water access •Examples of parks most likely to be affected - Yosemite, Yellowstone and most of the majors that are on bike routes. Impacts on Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking •Common bike routes through or around National Parks (e.g., Skyline Drive, Natchez Trace, Blue Ridge Parkway, Yellowstone Loop, etc.) •How closures or reduced services complicate trip planning •Campgrounds unavailable or unmaintained •Fewer refill spots for water/food •Riskier road conditions due to lack of maintenance or ranger presence •Potential increase in car traffic on fewer open roads •Implications for car-free or low-impact travelers Tips for Bike Travelers Navigating These Changes •Research and plan ahead: how to track park-specific updates •Use apps and websites that reflect real-time closures (NPS.gov, iOverlander, RideWithGPS updates, ACA forums) •Be prepared for self-sufficiency: water filtration, food storage, backup shelters •Consider alternative routes: National Forests, state parks, BLM lands •Join or support advocacy efforts for bike access and funding for parks

We're often asked what you should get someone into bike touring… but what about a gift for a friend or loved one who is literally in the middle of a bike tour? Inspired by a Reddit thread, but not one of *those* Reddit threads… some fun ideas that would really help make someone's tour! Originally podcast July 21, 2022.

The Florida adventure is in the rear view mirror but I have so many lessons learned from this trip… and I'll share a bunch of them with you here on the takeaways edition to close out the trip. Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET - 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well? Takeaways from the Jacksonville-to-Orlando Bike Tour Day 1 (Jacksonville to St. Augustine) 1. A Ferry Ride to Kick Things Off – The journey began with a ferry ride across the St. Johns River, adding a scenic and unique element right from the start. Incorporating ferries into bike tours always makes for an enjoyable experience. 2. Gate Code Saves the Day at Anastasia State Park – The planned shortcut to the campsite led to a locked gate, but having the code allowed access without a detour. Avoiding extra miles at the end of a long day was a major win. 3. Improvised Gear Setup on the Brompton – A key piece of the backpack-mounting system was missing, requiring an improvised fix using a monopod and zip ties. The setup held up well throughout the ride, proving that adaptability is key in bike touring.   Day 2 (St. Augustine to Flagler Beach Area) 4. Bananas Are the Best Electrolyte Solution – Instead of relying on electrolyte pills, which can cause nausea, bananas proved to be an effective way to prevent leg cramps. A simple, natural solution that made a big difference in managing hydration and muscle recovery. 5. A Route Adjustment Shortened the Day, but It Was Still Challenging – The original 57.7-mile plan changed with a 20-mile fast forward, making for a shorter but still demanding day. Even with the adjustment, Florida's heat, humidity, and terrain required careful pacing and hydration.   Day 3 (Port Orange to Rural Central Florida) 6. Headwinds and Humidity Made for a Tough Solo Ride – With no fast forward on this leg, the ride covered the full planned distance through sticky, muggy conditions. After the challenging conditions of the previous day, endurance and smart pacing were crucial to finishing strong. 7. Road Noise at Campgrounds Was a Constant Issue – Unlike remote wilderness bike tours, the campgrounds on this route were consistently noisy, with traffic sounds carrying late into the night. Sleeping conditions were impacted by a combination of humidity and the urban-adjacent settings.   Day 4 (Final Push to Disney) 8. A Pre-Dawn Start Took Advantage of Cooler Temperatures – The ride began at 6:15 AM, allowing for several miles before the sun and heat became overwhelming. The early start also meant less traffic and a peaceful stretch along the trail. 9. A Fast Forward to Winter Garden Allowed for New Route Exploration – Instead of repeating a previously ridden portion of the Florida Coast-to-Coast Trail, a fast forward brought the ride to Winter Garden, where new routes could be explored. This decision balanced efficiency with the excitement of seeing something different. 10. A Challenging Finish with More Traffic Than Expected – The final approach onto Disney property was busier than usual, making the last miles more hectic than anticipated. Despite the increased traffic, the ride concluded at the planned finish line, maintaining a long-standing tour tradition.

The previous day's winds having ebbed, it was time to ride a full day again. And with grayer skies and the winds more at my back than my face, day 3 got things back on track. Would last year's free campsite be as welcoming on this trip? Pedalshift 400 Live Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET - 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well? Florida Coast Part 4 Statistics Prę dawn cycling sections 1 Miles biked part 1 - 10 Miles biked part 2 - 20.1 Ubers 1 Towns with beach in the name 0 Flats 0

The previous day's winds having ebbed, it was time to ride a full day again. And with grayer skies and the winds more at my back than my face, day 3 got things back on track. Would last year's free campsite be as welcoming on this trip? Pedalshift 400 Live Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET - 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well? Florida Coast Part 3 Statistics Miles biked - 37.8 Ubers 0 Towns with beach in the name 0 Free camps 1 Flats 0

I used to do a beginners series on the show (and hope to do another again) but never did a whole show on “don't make the same mistake I did.” So, on this episode… mistakes to avoid as a beginner! Originally podcast July 21, 2022.

There are few rules in bicycle adventures, but I am a firm believer in the one that says you do not taunt the bike touring gods. Day 1 was a breeze, I said! The bike gods respond with a breeze of their own. Would their wrath of headwinds push me to screeching halt on my way to Daytona? Pedalshift 400 Live Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET - 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well? Florida Coast Part 2 Statistics Miles bikes 30.4 Miles not biked 27.4 Ubers 1 Towns with beach in the name 6 Flats 0

The first day of the Florida Coast adventure starts from the cooler air of Jacksonville, carrying me south through a series of beach towns on the way to a state park outside of St. Augustine with two entrances… the short way has a locked gate… would I be able to get through or have to go all the way back around (complete with extra miles) to get to camp? Pedalshift 400 Live Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET - 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well? Florida Coast Part 1 Statistics Miles bikes 52.5 Miles ferried .3 Towns with beach in the name 7 Regrets for not stopping for a cuban coffee 1 Flats 0

My annual tradition of a winter ride in the sunshine state continues! Unlike past years, I'm shaking things up with the start and focusing on a coastal ride along the East Coast Greenway before turning inland. But the Florida Coast is the name of the game for this adventure, and on this episode we preview the ride! Florida Coast Preview The ride Jacksonville to WDW over 4 days! East Coast Greenway! A ferry! Mostly coastal riding with the ocean over my left shoulder (who knew?) Revisting the Florida Coast to Coast Trail Riding all the way to my finish line resort at WDW (no Lyfts at the end this time!) The gear Brompton 3 days of camping Backpack mode with front pannier (same as last year) Keeping things minimal as the camping gear takes up some room No stove Details JAX-St. Augustine St. Augustine - Daytona Daytona - Lake Monroe Lake Monroe - WDW Highlights Day 1 St. Johns ferry and St Augustine Day 2 All coastal riding to Daytona Day 3 Reuniting with the FLC2C trail and camping at the free Lake Monroe campground Day 4 Eff it we're doing it live! Another thrilling ride into the belly of the beast errr Mouse and then celebrating by flying the Falcon and drinking blue milk and hitting the cantina Potential issues I need this trip more than I've ever needed a bike adventure so there's a lot of mental energy riding on this one… so you just KNOW shit will go sideways! Have not gotten the Brompton checked and likely won't have an opportunity as I have only a day or two in DC before I fly down to JAX. What could possibly go wrong? Tour Journal episodes start… next week, AND this gets us almost all the way to episode 400. Stay tuned for a live show announcement for mid-April!

I ride three different bikes for touring, and each one has plusses and minuses depending on what kind of ride I'm looking for. But if you're new to bike touring or looking for another bike, what should you be thinking about? On this episode, the things I look for in a touring bike! Originally podcast August 11, 2022.

So I successfully rode 75 miles on a single charge of my eBike battery (with a little bit of a top off!). What did I learn from the adventure and what does it mean for future trips with my ebike?  eBike Range Test Takeaways 75ish miles is pretty great with a little top off… that's amazing for the C&O and other reasonably flat terrain! 1.Battery Management is Key •The ride underscored the importance of efficient battery use. Keeping the e-bike battery between 20% and 80% for everyday use is recommended, but for extended trips, charging to 100% proved essential. However, overuse of higher pedal-assist levels (like Level 3) quickly drained the battery, emphasizing the need to stick to lower levels (1 or 2) to maximize range. 2.Comfort Adjustments are Ongoing •Experimentation with the saddle and handlebars revealed that finding the right configuration for long rides is a process. While the new saddle and bar extensions offered some comfort, they weren't perfect, suggesting that further adjustments or a different saddle type (like a Brooks) may be needed for better ergonomics. 3.Weather and Trail Conditions Impact Performance •The dry, cool weather and improved trail conditions (like the newly paved Western Maryland Rail Trail) enhanced the ride experience. However, headwinds were a challenge, requiring adjustments in effort and assist levels to maintain speed. 4.Range and Effort Balance •The ride confirmed that the e-bike could cover about 70-75 miles on a single charge, with minimal hills and strategic use of pedal assist. This opens possibilities for long-distance touring with the addition of a second battery but highlighted that even with assist, significant physical effort is still required, particularly on longer rides. 5.Preparation and Redundancy are Crucial •While the ride was successful, minor issues like forgetting a bike lock, misplacing microphone components, and underestimating hydration needs pointed to the importance of thorough preparation. Carrying a spare battery, hydration supplies, and tools for adjustments proved beneficial. The ebike is absolutely in my plans for some adventures - Train and bike to/from DC - really anyplace but emphasis on east coast - Circumnavigation of Lake Ontario - More east coast greenway riding - Another segment of the cross country ride

On this episode we ride from my cabin to Cumberland, MD on the C&O towpath to see if we can squeeze 75 miles out of my eBike battery! With only one real opportunity to top off, this is a real test with fairly unfun consequences if I run out… did I make it or did I have to pedal the last bit without that little extra boost?    Quick programming note… this episode is a beast, so I'm going to do takeaways next episode… feel free to listen to this one in chunks as it's over an hour!

On this episode we turn the page back to last fall when I did a secret mini tour with a big purpose… to test the range of my eBike battery on the C&O trail! Can I stretch one full charge enough to get a full day's ride in with all of the pedal assist I want? Let's find out the hard way!  eBike Range Test Preview The ride Cabin to Cumberland, road and trail 1 day, 1 charge* eBike! The idea Can I stretch the battery enough to get me 75.1 miles from cabin to Cumberland? Learning about range Learning about methods to conserve power Can I pedal this bike comfortably without pedal assist? Will I have to? The weather We haven't had rain in the region for a month, so of course we are forecast for rain the night before the ride BUT it should be dry day of, with a cold start and low 60s as a high The gear No camping this trip… doing a hotel in Cumberland and taking the train back No camping? A lot less gear! Bringing two emptyish panniers Charger Clothes for next day May bring my sleeping bag for emergency's sake Extra chain and tools The plan A chilly start after sunrise Ride to Hancock Hour break to get a few more miles of charge Pedal assist level 1 or maybe level 2 on the C&O to keep pace up but conserve battery Assessing battery in Paw Paw (may have an opportunity to top up) Will turn off pedal assist as necessary… or keep it up to improve pace What is success? 2x speed 1/2 effort! Knowing the range in real world conditions Giving the bike its longest test yet Feeling out the comfort situation - do I need to do more? Next week… the ride!

On this edition of the pod, we kick off 2025 with the intent to make it a year of celebration in a time of loss for me. But celebration is more fun, so let's do that.   2014's trip was a shout out to my grandmother and 2025 now has to be the same for my dad, who passed away at his home in NY just before Christmas. So, what are we doing by bike to celebrate his life and all sorts of other things?   Celebrating plans already made, and taking care of yourself - yes, I'm in western NY for a few weeks this winter but I'm taking some time to ride my ride in Florida. Familiar trip to be sure… the finish line is the same, but the route is so much more. Details in a few weeks!   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.   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.   West coast - what, you thought I wouldn't hit the Pacific coast? Pffft… find another podcast! Probably summer.   More bike adjacent adventures - exploring someplace where I ride, a bike gets used, but it's not necessarily the full focus.   Next week… I ran out of 2024! How about another tour journal to catch up?

With a bunch of snow and ice on the ground where I'm at, it's a good time to focus on things that will help bike tours coming after the thaw. On this episode, an update on my winter fitness goals, what I'm doing to keep it going plus some ideas on winter bike maintenance. Originally podcast January 20, 2022.

Shifty Saves the Holidays! It's an annual tradition around here that we celebrate the holidays with my senior executive producer and best buddy Shifty the Elf celebrating the year that has been. This year, in a nearly all elf-driven plot, our guy Shifty finds the magic in 2024 to make the holidays special once again. Happy holidays all, and see you in 2025! 

I'll admit, I've been bikepacking curious for a while. As my touring continues to expand and evolve I'm thinking more about bikepacking options and I thought I'd share the process on the pod. Join me, won't you? Originally podcast January 28, 2021.

A repodcast of Pedalshift Live from December 6, 2024 featuring special guest Mysterious James and YOUR questions for a big round of Ask Us Anything. Huge shoutout to the folks that came and made this one of the best live shows yet! 1. Top 3 Must-Have Items for Bike Touring • James: Once considered a cook set essential but now tours stoveless. Values minimal gear and adaptability. • Tim: iPhone (multi-use tool), foldable backjack chair, and positive vibes for motivation. 2. Best Place for Car-Free Living with Transit and Nature Access • James: San Francisco for its bikeability, walkability, and access to nature in all directions. • Tim: Portland, Oregon, for its bike-friendly culture, infrastructure, and scenic options for bike tours. 3. Trail Recommendations • Greenbrier River Trail (WV): Tim considers it for future e-bike touring despite challenging accessibility and trail conditions. • Pine Creek Trail (PA): Known but less explored by Tim and James. • Cowboy Trail (NE): On Tim's radar, but accessibility challenges persist. 4. Approach to Bike Adventuring • James: Minimal planning, go-with-the-flow mindset, and preference for off-road routes. • Tim: Focuses on enjoying the experience rather than completing every mile, with flexibility to adapt plans as needed. 5. East Coast Greenway • Highlighted as a potential cross-country ride option. Discussed challenges with camping and infrastructure but praised for its connectivity. 6. Tire Preferences • James: Schwalbe Marathon and Mondial tires for durability and versatility. • Tim: A long-time fan of Schwalbe tires for touring and e-bike use. 7. Mud Guards vs. No Mud Guards • James: Initially used mud guards but removed them due to travel difficulties and now prefers to ride without them. • Tim: Appreciates their value but acknowledges challenges with mud accumulation on trails like the C&O. 8. Motivation on Long Rides or in Bad Weather • James: Allows trips to end naturally when motivation fades, embracing the experience regardless of completion. • Tim: Stays motivated by focusing on the overall experience and prioritizing safety, especially in adverse weather. 9. Warm Showers Experience • James: Prefers camping or hotels due to flexibility and introversion. • Tim: Values the concept but hasn't fully embraced it due to similar concerns. 10. Cross-Country U.S. Route Priorities • James: Interested in rail trail-based routes for safety and scenery. • Tim: Eastern Express and routes through national parks like the Lewis and Clark Trail. 11. Cycling Southeast Asia • James: Enthralled by Cambodia's culture and affordability but wary of heat, rain, and traffic. • Tim: Intrigued but cautious about climate and road conditions. 12. Cycling Quebec • Tim: Keen to explore Quebec's Route Verte and its cultural richness, possibly linking it to U.S. rail trails for a larger tour. 13. Gap and C&O: Pittsburgh to DC vs. DC to Pittsburgh • Tim: Initially preferred Cumberland-to-Pittsburgh for the downhill experience but now considers both routes equally, emphasizing convenience based on starting point. 14. Bikepacking Regions to Highlight in a U.S. Cross-Country Tour • Must-see trails include the Great American Rail Trail, Katy Trail, and Northern Tier's scenic sections.   Special Mentions: Regina Yan (East Coast Greenway), Adventure Cycling Association (route inspiration), and Schwalbe Tires (consistent performance).  

Back from North Dakota and the bike-adjacent adventures with national parks, bison and Bromptons... I've got some takeaways to share!   Housekeeping  Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course it'll be the pod for the next week if you can't make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live. Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!   Takeaways Folks, North Dakota is worth the trip! When checking a bike, pay attention to all the vulnerable parts that jut out and don't shirk the corner padding Wild bison are worth seeing in person, but don't expect them to get out of your way TR NP is an excellent place to bike, but be aware that bison can and do come into the roadway and might scuttle your riding plans The northern tier route is a good place if you want solitude Bike adventures can mean a lot of things Our national parks are treasures worth protecting, but so are our state parks and other public lands

The final day of the NoDak adventure (finally?) explored the beauty of Medora, North Dakota, on bike, reflecting on the unique experience of cycling the Northern Tier Route. Beautiful views of TR NP, offbeat historical tidbits and some reflections and "what ifs" that prevented me from getting there earlier… all part of the adventure!     Housekeeping  We're shifting the schedule around a bit here as we close out the year… we're going to delay the final best of for 2024 so we can go straight through to finish the NoDak Adventure with no interruptions. But also… Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course it'll be the pod for the following week if you can't make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live. Best of will be the week of the 19th, then you Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!   Highlights: • Cycling the Northern Tier Route: • A ride along the official Northern Tier Route through Medora, including scenic stops by the Little Missouri River and the Medora campground. • Observations on the route's history and recent adjustments due to safety concerns in northern North Dakota. • Historical Nuggets: The tale of William Riley Luffy and a historic gunfight near the Little Missouri River. • Wildlife and Natural Beauty: Reflections on bison herds, prairie dog cities, and the stark beauty of the Badlands. • Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park: • Exploring the charming Wild West vibes of Medora and its support for cyclists. • Insights on Theodore Roosevelt's complex legacy and the transformative power of the landscapes that inspired him. • Personal Reflections: • The joys and challenges of biking in cold weather. • Thoughts on the unique beauty of oft-overlooked places like North Dakota.   Takeaways: • Cycling Lessons: Even short rides can offer profound connections to the landscapes and communities you explore. • Travel Wisdom: Embrace the unexpected, whether it's historical surprises or the realization that your bike can take you farther than you think. • Gratitude for Adventure: Recognizing the privilege of discovering new places and bringing listeners along for the journey.   Resources: • Plan your Northern Tier adventure with the Adventure Cycling Association. • Discover Medora and Theodore Roosevelt National Park on the official websites and NPS site.   Statistics Miles biked 5 Cyclist encounters 1 Cowboy themed museums and shops in Medora 5 Flats 0

A frosty start leads to adventure, navigating through Theodore Roosevelt National Park! From a sub-freezing camping morning to a literal standoff with a bison, listen in as we explore the unique challenges and rewards of fall adventures in one of North Dakota's most scenic landscapes.   Housekeeping  We're shifting the schedule around a bit here as we close out the year… we're going to delay the final best of for 2024 so we can go straight through to finish the NoDak Adventure with no interruptions. But also…   Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course it'll be the pod for the following week if you can't make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.   Best of will be the week of the 19th, then you Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year!   Folks, heads up this episode contains zero biking, but the next one does as temps eventually warmed up. And as you'll hear… probably for the best it was too cold, because one particular TR NP resident was not interested in yielding to any of us….   Highlights: • Cold Camping Realities: Waking up to 31°F in a frosty tent, layering up for warmth, and reflecting on the joys and challenges of camping in such conditions. • Wildlife Encounters: • Visits to “prairie dog cities” and observing their fascinating social behaviors. • Sightings of deer, jackrabbits, and a variety of birds, including a mysterious pheasant-like species. • A memorable standoff with “Gandalf,” a bison blocking the road for over 30 minutes. • Reflections on Theodore Roosevelt: Insights into the history and legacy of TR's connection to the park, alongside a discussion of his mixed-bag of a legacy. • Midwestern to Western Transition: Observations on how North Dakota's geography and culture bridge the Midwest and the West. • Prairie Dog City Philosophy: The ecological role of prairie dogs and their perception as pests versus vital contributors to their ecosystem.   Takeaways: • Gear Tips for Winter Camping: Always pack gloves and insulated footwear to keep extremities warm. • Embracing Flexibility: Knowing when to pivot plans, like transitioning from biking to exploring by vehicle when temperatures and wildlife dictate. • Respecting Wildlife: Acknowledging the park as the animals' home and adapting to their presence rather than forcing interactions.   Resources: • Visit the official Theodore Roosevelt National Park website for information about visiting this stunning location. • Learn more about the Northern Tier Trail here.   Statistics Morning temp range 21-32 F Percent of "loop" covered 40 Lord of the Rings wildlife namings 1 Prairie Dog sightings 18 bazillion Flats 0

Starting from Fargo and driving clear across North Dakota, I had little to prepare me for what awaited on the western edge of the state. But would I see the bison that I low key really wanted to see, and would some discovered damage on the Brompton scuttle the bikey part of this bike adjacent adventure? Housekeeping We're shifting the schedule around a bit here as we close out the year… we're going to delay the final best of for 2024 so we can go straight through to finish the NoDak Adventure with no interruptions. But also… Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course it'll be the pod for the following week if you can't make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live. Best of will be the week of the 19th, then you Shifty the Elf fans? The Holiday Spectacular returns Dec 26th to close out the year! NoDak Northern Tier Adventure Part 2 Driving North Dakota Adventures - Reflections on the landscape: vastness, agriculture, and wildlife sightings along the drive - Observations on North Dakota's scenic beauty, especially during fall - Jamestown Buffalo Museum mention and the fascination with the changing golden hues of the farmlands Arrival in Theodore Roosevelt National Park - Excitement for the park's wilderness, iconic buffalo herd, and camping at Cottonwood Campground - Insight into campground conditions: first-come, first-served, no water or services, and gear preparations - Planning for a night in the chilly North Dakota weather Camping and Wildlife Encounters - Capturing buffalo sightings, exploring the park, and photographing the scenic Badlands - Cycling experiences within the campground and nearby closed loops, including brief cycling issues - Observations on the local flora, geology, and prairie dog sightings Unexpected Gear Lessons and Camping Essentials - Discussing travel gear logistics: food, fuel, and camping supplies for a no-service campground - Bike challenges: saddle issues and minor damages to bike parts during transport - Lessons learned for future trips, particularly with bike handling and protection Biking and Buffalo Close Encounters - Memorable encounters with buffalo while biking, and the unique thrill of seeing them up close - Reflection on safety tips and maintaining distance with wildlife while biking - Experience of witnessing prairie dogs and other local fauna in their natural habitat Wrapping up the Day and Reflections - Preparing for a chilly night with layered gear and warming up with hot food and drinks - Reflections on the uniqueness of North Dakota's landscapes and the satisfaction of fully exploring the area - Plans for a cold morning bike ride, additional wildlife sightings, and beginning the drive back to Fargo Statisitics Miles driven 333 Bison sightings 1 herd, 1 lone, um, wolf Bashed Brompton rack tires 1 Impending temperature drop - 34 degrees F, 19 degrees C Lighters forgotten, and subsequently purchased 1 Flats 0

We all want to do the right thing, hopefully, and within any community there's an unwritten code of conduct for proper behavior so we can all get along. On this episode, we cover some of those rules of bicycle touring etiquette! Originally podcast August 15, 2019.

On this episode, we start the long journey to bike in the badlands of North Dakota… it turns out, perhaps the biggest reason I haven't had a chance to visit North Dakota before is because it is tucked out of the way in the US northern plains. Maybe its remote nature is a part of its draw? Its largest city of Fargo is the gateway to the adventure… would it surprise me from the start? NoDak Northern Tier Adventure Part 1 Statisitics Miles driven 249 Miles biked 0 States visited 49 Number of campers in camp 1 Number of bikes in camp 1 (Mine!) Dashed expectations for a cowboy bar because Fargo is way more of a city than I expected and really that's my own fault because I should have done a minimal amount of research into the vibrant community that Fargo clearly is, and for that I'm a bad podcaster and I'm sorry? Wait… is there a number here? 9! Flats 0

I'm going to North Dakota and I am unreasonably excited about it! For years I have been stuck at 48 states visited (and for real, not just airport states) BUT the final two were ND and Alaska, and no disrespect to North Dakota but Alaska needs to be my 50th. But the opportunity to get there was shattered ten years ago when my original ride on the Northern Tier route was scuttled by a heat wave I wasn't interested in riding through. But now… I'm doing it. With a bike. And buffaloes.   The Adventure   Heavily car aided. Very heavily. Like, mostly. Starting and ending in MSP (there for a work thing) All camping Brompton riding daily Crossing the state TWICE Urban camping in Fargo! Theodore Roosevelt NP! Buffalo! Camping! Riding! Finally getting wheels down on the Northern Tier bicycle route! Rest stop car camping in the very friendly sleep-in rest stops of ND! Did I mention the 49th state visit?   Itinerary    Day 1  Car rental  Camping in Fargo and Lindenwood Campground Biking into town for dinner and all the Fargo nightlife I can handle   Day 2 Pre dawn departure  Gain an hour driving across the state into MT Camping at TR NP at Cottonwood Campground Buffalo herds nearby and sometimes they saunter into camp?   Day 3 Half day at TR NP to cycle a bit Drive back across the state Lose an hour coming back into CT Rest area about halfway to MSP   Day 4 Pre dawn departure  Get back to MSP and fly home   Gear Rental car Brompton Camping gear that fits in a checked suitcase - going with basics and adding "luxuries" if I can since this is car camping Stove a must - likely buying fuel in MN or ND   Weather Not as cold as you'd think for fall Hoping for dry, preparing for not   How much biking? It really depends. The idea here is to get a sample, not make miles. Seeing TR NP at the speed of bike Experiencing Fargo and its… bike infrastructure?

So, the ebike works… and my confidence is up! What were my takeaways from the shakedown ride and what are the kinds of rides I'm considering for 2025 and beyond for my electric wonder?   Housekeeping    Live Show! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course it'll be the pod for the following week if you can't make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.   We have a new adventure lined up in a totally new to me state! Preview episode next week!   Takeaways   The bike works and I might be a better mechanic than I thought I may have underestimated the range on this battery I may have underestimated the recharge capabilities of the "slow charger" but maybe not I need more hand positions (Jones Bar? Something else?) I really should finish the bike but if I'm cutting cables I want to figure out the handlebars and height first I'm going to buy all the things to outfit this without borrowing from my other bikes   The Future   I considered bringing this bike for my annual Florida ride, then reconsidered Positioning an ebike for a ride is complex because transportation has to be by ground or shipping I want to do more shakedowns before going "over the wall" C&O to Cumberland and back (or train) Full GAP/CO East Coast Greenway segments from DC north and south Connect OTET to Katy (Dayton-St. Louis) KC to Denver Denver to the Pacific Coast What are you interested in hearing about?  

On this episode, I take my new ebike on its first shakedown ride to test its capabilities, from battery life to chain tension to, well… does this thing work? It's a 40 mile round trip from my cabin in West Virginia to a campsite outside of Hancock, MD on the C&O towpath complete with terrain, headwinds, hills and riverside overnight!   Housekeeping Lael Wilcox's ride is weeks old now but shout out to listener and former guest Cyrus Fairivar for not only meeting with Lael, but getting an unnamed shout out on her pod!  Live Show announcement! Friday December 6 at 9pm ET/6pm PT - topics TBA, and of course it'll be the pod for the following week if you can't make it live. Links and more at pedalshift.net/live.    eBike Project - Shakedown Ride Bike Setup & Preparation: • Fully charged battery, loaded with two rear panniers, and adjustments for the first e-bike adventure. • Changes from the last ride: added a stove for coffee and packed some food from Maria's Taqueria.   Ride Experience: • Initial observations on battery performance: The e-bike flattened the hills, averaging around 20-25 mph with minimal battery usage. • Headwind and hill performance: Noted how the pedal assist (at level 4 and 5) made hills easier and allowed for faster cruising speeds.   Comfort Adjustments: • Noted some tingling in the hands and plans to possibly add bar ends or horns for a better grip. • A potential move to a more upright riding position, requiring cabling adjustments.   Battery Management: • Discussed the range and recharge performance, observing that the battery was only down 25% after 20 miles of riding, even with heavy pedal assist. • Insights on ideal battery storage and how the e-bike's range matched expectations.   Camp Setup: • Arrived at camp and shared thoughts on the bike's potential for longer tours, with plenty of battery for return rides. • Reflections on camping alone and observations on trail conditions and other cyclists.   The Ride Back: • Further testing of the battery on uphill sections, confirming impressive performance with ample pedal assist. • Final reflections on e-bike touring possibilities, noting a vastly improved return ride compared to previous acoustic bike tours.   Statistics Miles biked: 40 miles Average Speed on Flats: 23 mph Battery confidence: 100% Efficacy of using coffee stirrers as chopsticks: 3% Flats: 0

Originally recorded live from Hedgesville, WV, this episode of the Pedalshift Project includes the (semi-doomed) 2018 fall tour reveal and gear tips for your fall bicycle touring. Plus banter with you… because it was live! Originally podcast September 27, 2018.

On this edition, we preview a short but momentous little overnight adventure on my brand new ebike… we'll discuss goals and strategies, plus recharge options and… hey, we're getting back on the C&O again! eBike Project - Shakedown Preview The basics ebike full charged battery Two panniers and maybe the sleep kit on the handlebars No food, no stove Sleep clothes only (no additional clothing) Rain gear only if rain ends up being possible extra tools - chain breaker, master link breaker, more The route Road route from cabin to Hancock's city park, then onto one of the closer campsites on the C&O Returning the second day to Hancock for any additional charge ups necessary and then up the hills back Approx 40 total miles, maybe a bit more if I ride further out on the trail Why so short? Need to keep things close in case we have something happen that requires a vehicle rescue May be a short ride but it has a lot of climbing, long flats where speed is helpful, and more Trying to gauge how much range this bike and battery has on real terrain Minimal gear and gas station cuisine Hancock has plenty of food options close to the city park that has electric Will bring water purifier for the trail just in case, but likely will have enough water on hand to make things work Trying to keep the variables to a minimum Weather Finally starting to cool down around here! High projected to be in 70s (24C), lows in the mid 50s (13C) Rain in the forecast for a couple of days before, but ending that morning so it should be dry but might have wet ground Down bag, tent, pad… nothing too crazy necessary as we transition into fall What I'm looking for out of this trip Ensuring the build is solid and safe - rack, brakes, cables no longer pinched Testing range on the battery Getting more experience climbing with the boost Seeing how "fast" my 3A charger can charge (not a lot) Getting a feel for a suspension bike Getting a feel for the tires Assessing comfort - how long can I be in the saddle? Assessing need for more add-ons A chill night on the C&O… haven't been camping since Oregon this summer! Pod plans Single tour journal for the trip (there and back) Separate takeaways episode to get into assessments, next steps, and potential ideas for 2025  

In this episode, follow an in-depth, step-by-step journey of transforming a surprisingly decent Ozark Trail mountain bike into the first Pedalshift e-bike (n=3 or 4 if you're counting). This mega-pod takes you from the initial setup to final tweaks, including component replacements, brake and pedal adjustments, and install of a mid drive motor. I'm hardly a bike mechanic, so will things to go sideways at least once like my typical bike adventures? eBike Project - The Build Hey I got an ebike! Where did I end up? Decided on build over buy - more flexibility Decided on new over used - couldn't find a good used one that wasn't $$$ Went with a Bafang middrive motor and a 52v 20Ah frame mounted battery - smaller than Brian's, but still pretty big. Watched a ton of YouTube videos and bought some tools! This took me several weeks because the bike lived at the cabin and I was back and forth a bit as I built it This was a journey… and the episode is a little long, but definitely brings you along tour journals style for how it went… 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:54 Choosing the Right Bike for the E-Bike Conversion 05:52 Initial Setup and Component Replacements 10:56 Challenges and Adjustments 18:05 Programming and Configuration 28:45 Battery Insights and Expectations 41:03 Assembly and Troubleshooting 48:11 Rear Brake Discovery 48:27 Chain Installation Challenges 48:30 Nighttime Reflections 49:27 Final Adjustments and Cable Management 50:51 Chain Sizing Tips 51:47 First Ride Impressions 52:32 Handlebar and Screen Setup 52:51 Rear Brake Issues 55:28 Pedal and Crank Problems 58:54 Cable and Sensor Installations 01:01:44 Tire Upgrade 01:04:14 Battery and Range Concerns 01:04:53 Shakedown Ride Plans 01:07:23 Final Preparations 01:16:47 Shakedown Ride Execution 01:25:48 E-Bike Confidence Boost 01:30:36 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

The remix is in the rear view mirror, but as always I like to look back and discuss takeaways from every trip. On this edition, ten takeaways from the Oregon Coast Remix, celebrating ten years of the pod! Oregon Coast Remix Takeaways Don't Rush Tent Setup: I experienced a rough night at Bastendorf Beach County Campground due to improper tent setup. I had to get out of the tent at 12:30 AM to stake it properly, improving airflow and reducing internal condensation, which kept me awake as large drops of water hit my forehead. Every Trip Is Unique: James and I reflected on how each of our trips along the Oregon Coast differed. For example, I noted that every time I rode the coast, I used a different bike or setup, which made each journey distinct and memorable. Critical Importance of Food and Hydration: I discovered that my difficulties during the ride were due to dehydration, which affected my overall well-being. I shifted my focus from electrolytes to drinking more regular water, especially after noticing that my urine color indicated dehydration. Also, snacks like frosted mini-wheats helped manage my energy levels. Oregon Coast Weather's Dual Role: The Oregon Coast's weather was both a blessing and a challenge. For instance, while the cool, cloudy weather made for pleasant riding, the sudden appearance of the sun during our ride to Sunset Bay increased the difficulty, especially on long climbs. Companionship on the Road: I noted that riding with James added a positive social element to the trip. Despite generally preferring to ride solo, I found it enjoyable to share the experience and have someone to talk to about various topics along the way. Campground Upgrades: We stayed at a variety of campgrounds, each with different amenities. For instance, we found the new hiker-biker campsite at Jesse M. Honeyman State Park to be an improvement over previous experiences, with brand new facilities, flat tent sites, and a charging station. The Value of Good Sleep: At Honeyman State Park, despite the riding challenges, I noted how a good night's sleep helped me recover, emphasizing how crucial rest is for endurance on multi-day tours. Adaptability to Changing Plans: The trip required constant adaptation, such as when we chose to stay at Bastendorf Beach County Park instead of Sunset Bay. This change was partly due to past negative experiences at Sunset Bay and partly because we discovered Bastendorf had amenities we preferred. Maintaining a Positive Attitude: Despite the physical and logistical challenges, James and I remained positive, often joking about the difficulties and focusing on the highlights of the trip, such as the beautiful weather and the enjoyable ride through Bandon. Where Are the Cyclists?: James and I are still pretty puzzled about the lack of cyclist encounters on the entire ride. We talked about some of the theories, but none of them alone explain it. Having the camps to ourselves was great but if there's lower demand will the amenities go away? Programming note! Lael! Next week we enter a new era in bike adventures… remember that ebike project? Let's just say things escalated and you get to join me in the process! Also… we have two more bicycle adventures left this year alone and planning for the winter trip in early 2025 is locked in. Lots more to come!

In the summer of 2014, I took 6 weeks to ride the Pacific coast from Victoria, BC to the US-Mexico border. I recorded a 2-5 minute audio entry every day for the Tour Journals podcast to share the more detailed aspects of the ride, but always intended to edit and condense it into a more manageable length to share here. Originally podcast December 22, 2014. (Note, I say this hasn't been released in 10 years, but it got some love as a best of in 2019. Management regrets this error and the offending parties have been sacked. Or promoted. Not sure what to do with me.)

Sometimes journeys have distinct ends and sometimes those endings are a little more flexible. In the penultimate episode of the Oregon Coast Remix we mash together my departure from Bandon and my return a week later a few hundred miles south on the Mendocino coast where MJ and I catch up on his ride and reflect on what's going on with cycling on the Pacific Coast. Oregon Coast Remix - Part 6 Segment 1: Departure from Bandon, Oregon   - Early morning departure, catching the bus to Crescent City.   - The stark contrast between cycling for days and the sudden speed of motorized transport.   - Reflecting on the mixed feelings of leaving the Oregon coast but looking forward to more adventures. Segment 2: Crescent City and Beyond   - Arriving in Crescent City via bus and experiencing the rapid transition south.   - The surreal feeling of covering in minutes what would have taken days by bike.   - Exploration of Crescent City, a quiet yet interesting coastal town with a mix of old and new homes. Segment 3: Journey to Medford, Oregon   - Renting a Jeep for the drive to Medford, a stark contrast to the cycling experience.   - The logistics of packing up the bike and the relief of having more freedom with a car.   - Reflecting on the decision to spend extra money on a car rental instead of enduring a challenging bus experience.   - Arriving in Medford and enjoying some downtime with a few beers and a simple hotel dinner. Segment 4: The following week in Mendocino   - Bonus content: Tim rides his Brompton to Mendocino, battling wind and heel strikes with his messenger bag.   - The beautiful yet challenging coastal route, with reflections on the unique experience of riding the Brompton.   - Meeting up with James in Mendocino for beers and conversation. Segment 5: James' Solo Journey   - James shares his solo adventure from Bandon, Oregon, to Mendocino, California.   - Highlights include staying at unique campsites like Florence Keller in Crescent City and Sue-Meg State Park.   - Encountering heavy fog and low visibility while climbing out of Crescent City, but ultimately enjoying the beauty of the coast.   - Discussion of the strange phenomenon of not encountering any other touring cyclists during the journey. Segment 6: Reflections on the Pacific Coast Route   - Tim and James reflect on the diminishing number of cyclists on the Pacific Coast route, speculating on reasons like the closure of Big Sur and the changing interests of the cycling community. Statistics Miles Bussed from Bandon to Crescent City: 90 miles Miles Driven from Crescent City to Medford: 106 miles Miles Flown between segments: 5383 Total Bicycle Tourists Encountered in Camps: 0 Total Miles Cycled by James from Bandon to Mendocino: 412 miles Flats: 0

A short but challenging ride up and over the Seven Devils would be the last days of cycling for James and I on this adventure, but the remix theme gave us new things to try… a new brewery, time in a great town I usually skip, and one more new-to-us campground to rate! Oregon Coast Remix - Part 5 Morning Update from Bastendorf Beach County Campground Tim shares challenges with condensation and a disrupted night's sleep. Discussion on the overall rating of the campsite and amenities. Plans for the day's ride: Seven Devils Road to Bandon and finally to Bullards Beach State Park. On the Road to the Seven Devils Decision to skip Sunset Bay and head straight to Seven Devils Road. Overview of the route and expected challenges. Reflections on the unique aspects of each trip and the enjoyment of new experiences. Riding the Seven Devils Tim describes the physical challenges of the ride, including dealing with humidity and climbs. Frequent breaks and efforts to maintain hydration and energy levels. Arrival in Bandon Arrival at Bandon Brewing Company for a well-deserved meal and beers. Reflections on the ride, weather conditions, and experiences in Bandon. Rating Bandon Brewing Company: 7.5/10 Final Stretch to Bullards Beach State Park The ride back to camp, facing headwinds and fatigue. Comparison of Bullards Beach State Park to other campsites visited. Rating Bullards Beach State Park: 8/10 Observations on the absence of other touring cyclists during this trip. Evening Reflections and Future Plans Enjoying the final night of camping and discussing future adventures. James plans to update his Adventure Cycling Association maps. Teaser for upcoming adventure plans involving the ACA. Statistics Miles biked 26.5 Devils 7 Beers 2 Cyclists in camp 0 Hikers in camp 1 Flats 0

If you can't fuel your cycling, you can't ride very far. At least that's what grandma always told me (editors note: she did not). So, waking up in camp without much appetite doesn't really bode well for making very many miles. But what if the solution were to just get on the bike and go? And would my reward be a night at my least favorite state park campsite? Oregon Coast Remix - Part 4 Morning Update from Honeyman State Park On the Road to Reedsport Riding along Highway 101 Hydration and appetite improving. Reflecting on the camping experience and the tour's challenges. Arrival in Reedsport Successful lunch, hydration improved. Decision to push for Sunset Bay, despite past unfavorable experiences. Journey to North Bend Planning to reach North Bend, with a potential new campground option. Discussions on the day's remaining challenges and adjustments. Break at North Bend Safeway Confirmed hiker/biker campsite at Coos County Park. Reflecting on the tour's modifications and feeling better health-wise. Arrival at Bastendorf Beach County Park Recap of the day's ride and the new campsite. Comparison between Bastendorf Beach and Sunset Bay campsites. Highlights include a large grassy area, numerous picnic tables, and decent amenities. Campground Rating Discussion Tim and James rate Bastendorf Beach. Considerations include amenities, location, and overall experience. Final Thoughts Reflections on the day's ride and feeling back to normal. Plans for the following day: potentially tackling the seven devils and exploring Bandon or heading towards Port Orford. Statistics Miles biked 55 Elevation gain 3200 feet Appetite improvement 100% Meaningless hill climbs 1 Buzzing lights at camp 0 Wine cans imbibed 1 Picnic tables available 40 Flats 0

I always say day 3 is when bike tours click in, but don't sometimes exceptions prove the rule? And don't my bicycle adventures always find some way to go sideways? Everything seems to be going just fine as James and I cycle away from our beach camp, but what could possibly throw a monkey wrench into our plans this time? Oregon Coast Remix - Part 3 Morning at Beachside State Recreational Site • Departure from Beachside around 8:30 AM. • Planning to stop at Yachats, about 10 miles away. • Encountered a group of young hikers. Camp Experience • Ratings for campsites along the way, with particular praise for South Beach and Cape Lookout. • The soothing sound of crashing waves as a backdrop at Beachside. Technical and Physical Challenges • Tim's battery anxiety despite having sufficient power. • Horrific leg cramps and focusing on electrolytes. • The impact of caffeine on appetite suppression and performance. Journey Highlights • Departure from Beachside towards Yachats and reminiscing about a previous mishap in Yachats. • The importance of breakfast and managing indigestion during the ride. • Discussion on the beauty and challenges of the Oregon Coast terrain. Midday in Yachats • James and Tim enjoyed a coffee break and discussed Lael Wilcox's podcast. • Description of the Oregon Coast's scenic beauty, cool weather, and the joy of riding with a tailwind. Mechanics and Adjustments • Issues with bike gears and attempts at barrel adjustment. • Reflecting on the bike's performance and necessary future adjustments. Arrival at Jesse M. Honeyman State Park • Rating the new hiker/biker campsite at Honeyman State Park. • Reflecting on the day's ride and the impact of indigestion on performance. Rider Reflections and Future Plans • Tim and James discuss their potential next stops and the flexibility needed when plans go awry. Statistics Miles biked 35.3 Elevation gained 1427 ft 1472 ft - 435m Calories eaten at lunch maybe 50 Bikers encountered at camp 0 Nephew post credit scenes 1 Flats 0

Stealth camping lets bike tourists keep costs down and ride more miles per day… but is it right for you? On this episode, we cover stealth camping upsides, downsides, tips, philosophies, risks, and some thoughts on the number one question… what to do if you get caught! Originally podcast April 19, 2019.

After a relaxing first night in camp, it was time to put in some real mileage over some real terrain. Fog and cool weather beckoned, but would it remain? And would our next new-to-us campsite with "beach" in its name live up to expectations? Oregon Coast Remix - Part 2 Morning in Camp • Coffee experiment failure: James' protein powder mishap. • Chilly morning with heavy winds. • Plans for the day: ride to Newport and Beachside. Starting the Ride •Update from Highway 101 near Depot Bay: favorable tailwinds. •Tim's new breakfast strategy: snacking on shredded wheat minis. •Weather and clothing conditions: cool, foggy, perfect for cycling. First Break •Brief stop south of Lincoln Beach. •Positive progress: good pace and energy levels. •Hydration strategy with electrolyte juice. Depot Bay Stop •Stopping for coffee and a treat at Pirate Coffee Company. •Reflections on past experiences and current ride satisfaction. Cape Foulweather Climb •Detailed description of the back road climb on Cape Foulweather. •Scenic views and serene atmosphere. •Comparison to previous rides and current weather benefits. Lunch in Newport •Meeting James for lunch in Newport. •Longer than usual break, reflections on its impact. •Post-lunch ride strategy and sunscreen mishap. Riding to Waldport •Update on the ride to Waldport after lunch. •Grocery run and preparations for the evening. •Anticipation for Beachside State Recreational Area. Arrival at Beachside State Recreational Area •Initial impressions of the campground: close beach access, sandy terrain. •Comparisons to previous night's campsite. •Reflections on the ride and overall experience. Evening Reflections •Enjoying the evening with beverages. •Discussion on the ride and campsite rating. Statistics Miles biked 50 Protein powder mishaps 1 Other cyclists in camp 0 Hikers in camp 5 Flats 0

A big day of travel from DC to Oregon and then on to the coast… it's not hassle-free, but the coast and its cooler temperatures await for a grand adventure celebrating ten years of the pod. But wait… who's that in Lincoln City?   Introduction   • Opening remarks from Tim in Washington D.C. • Packing and preparation challenges. • Importance of cable run for bike handlebars.   Travel Troubles and Adjustments   • Delayed flight and rebooking with Alaska Airlines. • Adjusted travel plans leading to an early morning departure. • Personal updates: spending extra night with family and dealing with remote family health issues.   The Journey Begins   • Revealing Mysterious James as a trip companion. • Anticipation for the 10th-anniversary trip of the podcast. • Details of the bike setup and packing. • Weather conditions and impact on travel.   Flight to Portland   • Flight experience: busy airport and smooth connections. • Challenges with TSA and bike packing. • Arriving in Portland and rebuilding the bike.   Portland to Tillamook   • Riding through Portland to brother's place. • Adjusting the bike setup. • Detailed plans for the next day's travel to the coast. • Reflections on using local transit systems.   Arrival in Tillamook   • Experience at Tillamook Safeway. • Bus journey details and using transit apps. • Mysterious James's progress on the coast.   Lincoln City Campground   • Campground features and setup. • Ratings and comparisons of the camping experience. • Discussion on the evolution of cycling tourism post-COVID.   Wrapping Up   • Final thoughts on the day's travel and setup. • Looking forward to the ride through Newport to Beachside State Park.     Statistics   Miles Biked 2.5 Bike tourists in camp 0 Wine-based Choclotinis purchased 2 Mysterious Jameses encountered 1 Flats 0

Ten years ago, I embarked on one of my biggest adventures… cycling the entire Pacific Coast, from border to border. Since then, I've revisited sections of that ride time and again. And to be honest, I have some habits… tried and true places to camp and eat and even throw back a few. So to celebrate ten years of the pod, the Oregon Coast makes a lot of sense. But celebrating the past sometimes means looking forward, so maybe we shake it up…. remix the ride. On this episode, a preview of the tenth anniversary ride, the Oregon Coast Remix. Oregon Coast Remix Preview The ride   Lincoln City - Crescent City A couple of fast forwards (PDX-LC, Port Orford-Brookings) Reasonable mileage The remix - new to me campsites each night (except the last one - more in a moment) Pros - even though this a familiar ride, the tick tock of it isn't so it's going to be totally different. New challenges, new rhythms. Ability to spend time in the coastal towns differently. No Sunset Bay! Cons - I'll miss out on some classic things like South Beach SP. Would have liked more time. Not in proper bike shape for the ride? Unknowns - there are h/b campgrounds, but are they any good?    Ride to Union Station, Portland Bus to Tillamook Ride to Pacific City? Bus to Lincoln City Ride hits so many new h/b campgrounds Final night… wanted to do Cape Blanco, but in retrospect it's just too much to get up there (steep and narrow road). Luckily, Humbug Mountain is close enough to Port Orford to bike back to grab the bus. Only campsite I'll stay at that's not new to me (barring disaster/change in plans) Fast forward Port Orford to Brookings and then another bus to Crescent City airport for my car (puke avoidance tour 2024)   The gear   The Safari - same bike (well same frame and a few of the OG components) as the one that road the coast in 2014 Back from the shop and hopefully riding perfectly Fully loaded, even bringing a stove Flying with the Dogsbody bag (which has definitely paid for itself at this point) Two rear panniers Fork bags, but using the eVent bags instead of those skinny bags that came with them Will be the closest to a "4 pannier" setup I've ever done Handlebar roll (new bag) Lots of capacity, but will try to keep amount of gear and clothing to a minimum. May look heavier than it is?   The challenges   Not in the best shape My usual stops won't make sense so I'll be improvising a bit   The upsides   Brand new campgrounds - new sights to see and new perspectives of the coast Different rhythm to the ride makes it closer to new I'm in this for fun, not breaking speed records… hoping to stop at a few cool places I usually pass by Might have some surprises. It's the ten year anniversary adventure, after all!   Tour Journals start… next week!

I've taken listeners on a bunch of rides on the C&O (including the current one!), so it's worth revisiting my guide to riding it. In the second of two parts, we go section by section from DC to Cumberland. It's an audio guide to cycling the C&O Canal towpath whether you're a first timer of a full on expert. Originally podcast November 18, 2021. Best of Pedalshift 263: Guide to the C&O - Section by Section