Bike Life

Explore the evolving landscape of bike touring through the lens of seasoned traveler Jeff Jinnett. He shares tales of enduring the heat, battling steep terrains, and finding unexpected kindness from strangers over 40 years on the road. Jeff’s story is a rollercoaster of perseverance and gratitude, featuring grueling climbs toward Lake Tahoe and the icy refreshment of a Ben and Jerry’s break.

From navigating with paper maps in the 80s to utilizing modern GPS systems, Jeff’s reflections on the unique connections and enriching experiences gained on two wheels remind us how technological advances have changed the game but retained the spirit of adventure and community.

Catch up with Jeff on his blog J.J. Coast to Coast

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Chris Clinch shares his passionate decision to explore Colombia on two wheels, starting from the vibrant city of Cartagena and heading toward Medellin through the majestic foothills of the Andes. The journey reveals valuable lessons on minimalism as he quickly learns the beauty of living with less and the kindness of strangers, who were pivotal during unexpected challenges like gear troubles and a severe dog attack in Argentina.

His story captures the essence of breaking free from societal pressures and the joy of connecting with diverse cultures. Despite managing type 1 diabetes and the high-altitude challenges, Chris’ adventure underscores the power of the global cycling community. It inspires us to step out of our comfort zones, whether by setting off on our own voyages or by extending a helping hand to fellow travelers.

Catch up with Chris:

• Blog: Chris Clinch
• Instagram: @type_1_diabetes_fun

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Jerry Gore takes us on an extraordinary ride from London to Kyiv, sharing a deeply personal journey to raise awareness for children living with type 1 diabetes in Ukraine. He shares harrowing tales of constant air raid sirens, sharing the road with tanks, and the powerful moments of human kindness encountered along the way. Jerry’s story shines a light on the resilience of individuals facing unimaginable circumstances and the sheer drive to make a positive impact amid chaos.

From battling storms in Germany to finding unexpected friendships and support, explore the raw reality of cycling adventures with a humanitarian purpose. With touching anecdotes and a heartfelt mission, Jerry’s journey underscores the importance of compassion, perseverance, and the interconnectedness of our global community.

Catch up with Jerry:

• Jerry’s Website: JerryGore.com
• Action 4 Diabetes: Action4Diabetes.org
• Facebook: RideUkraine 2023
• Instagram: @jerrya4d
• LinkedIn:  Jerry Gore

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

What role can bicycles play in changing lives?

Karolin Windhuber shares how one company is making a significant impact by providing bicycles and maintenance education in developing countries. During her 3,000-kilometer cycle ride from Germany to Turkey, she raised awareness and funds for World Bicycle Relief.

Karolin discovered the beauty of slow travel, the power of social media in fundraising, and the heartfelt connections made along the way. Her journey underscores the profound impact of cycling and the meaningful change it can bring to communities across the globe.

Catch up with Karolin on Instagram @la.vida.lokaro or LinkedIn and donate on her fundraising page. Learn more about World Bicycle Relief and Buffalo Bicycles.

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. You can also contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Roller Coasters across the world, cycle adventures through scenic landscapes, hitchhiking up a mountain, wild camping in city parks…after 25 years of cycling touring together, friends Ken Francis and Philip Robinson have seen it all.

Their stories are filled with laughter and the spirit of discovery as they navigate theme parks and biking trails worldwide. Adaptability, compromise, and teamwork are essential traits they've honed through their years of touring. For Ken and Philip, it’s all about the adventure, not the number of miles traveled.

Whether it's Philip's frequent use of ChapStick or Ken's determination to reach 100 miles in one day, their tales show that shared experiences and genuine camaraderie transform every journey into an unforgettable adventure.

You can follow Ken on YouTube at Ken Francis World and The Intimacy Gram. Find him on Instagram @Adventureman_lb and @The_Intimacy_Gram.

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Agathe Daudibon, the tourism director at the European Cyclists’ Federation, joins us to explore the fascinating world of Eurovelo. She shares the origins, ambitions, and the impressive network available to cyclists. This comprehensive system challenges the traditional notions of tourism, highlighting the benefits of cycling not just for avid bikers but also for beginners.

Discover how Eurovelo seamlessly integrates with local and national routes across 38 countries, promising a cohesive and inclusive cycling experience for all. Agathe touches on the intersections of tourism, climate change, and urban planning as we see how cycling can transform our habitats into more livable spaces.

Whether you're an extended tour cyclist or a weekend adventurer, there's something here that will surely inspire you to pedal further and explore more.

Catch up with Agathe at EuroVelo.com, on Instagram at @ecfeurovelo, on Facebook at EuorVelo, and on YouTube at @EuroVelo.

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

What inspires someone to cycle from France to Korea? Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of a passionate adventurer who made this impressive trek to the World Scout Jamboree, promoting bicycle travel and sustainable transportation along the way.

Florian Coupe is a cyclist determined to make an impact and inspire youth around the world. He gives us an intimate look at the motivations, challenges, and memorable moments of his seven-month odyssey, covering over 15,000 kilometers, to the World Scout Jamboree and the incredible reception when he arrived.

Florian shares stories of past cycling legends, the camaraderie of scouting, and the spirit of adventure that fuels their mission to encourage young people to embrace outdoor activities and eco-friendly travel. His story is not just about the distance covered, but the meaningful connections and lasting influence of one cyclist's endeavor to change the world, one pedal at a time.

Catch up with Florian and follow his travels on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Ever wondered what it's like to cycle from the frosty terrains of Alaska to the bustling streets of Argentina?

Ville and Kristen Jokinen can tell you. They took on this monumental challenge and experienced the raw emotions and thrilling adventures that come with an extended bike tour across diverse landscapes. They share their intimate encounters with wildlife, including a startling face-off with a grizzly bear and the heartfelt connections they forged with locals and fellow travelers along their route.

A journey that began on bike saddles blossomed into a narrative that transcends the mere act of pedaling. Ville and Kristen’s dedication to documenting their trip led to a compelling book that captures the essence of their experiences, encouraging others to explore the world on two wheels and embrace the unexpected twists of life's roads.

Catch up with Ville and Kristen:

• Website: We Lost the Map
• Instagram: @welostthemap
• Substack: We Lost the Map
• Facebook: @welostthemap2
• TikTok: @welostthemap
• Email: [email protected]
• Get Kristen’s book: Joyride, A Bike Odyssey from Alaska to Argentina  

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Embrace the ripple effect of hospitality with the Warmshowers Southern California hosting group!

This special group has logged well over 600 guests between them. But for them, it’s not about the numbers; it’s about the profound impact the simple act of hosting has had on them. From offering shelter to providing a warm meal, each gesture of hospitality enriches their lives and strengthens their bond with the world.

Every open door invites a new story and showcases the beauty of human connection and joy. This special episode of Bike Life celebrates the generous spirit within the cycle touring community and highlights the unexpected joys and enduring bonds forged through the simple act of extending a warm welcome.

Warmshowers extends deep gratitude to all hosts worldwide and invites you to connect with this Southern California group through their profiles:

• Ken Francis
• Michael Kwan
• Sue Steven
• Carl Barry
• Brian King
• Sandra Guzman

Community Building: Reach Out and Network

Warmshowers is more than just a platform for hospitality exchange; it's a thriving community built on communication and networking. Regional groups have organized bike rides, dinner events, and overnight tours, fostering friendships that span the globe. These groups not only recruit new hosts but also advocate for cyclist-friendly policies like camping in parks. They also facilitate a referral network, where hosts can share information about guests, ensuring positive experiences for all involved.

Building a stronger community starts with reaching out to fellow hosts in your area. Utilize Warmshowers' search feature to find nearby hosts and send a welcoming letter to introduce yourself. Organizing events is another creative way to connect with others and foster camaraderie within the community.

Join the Southern California Area Warmshowers Host Facebook group and discover more about them by watching one of their backyard barbeque videos.

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!

Are you captivated by tales of historical journeys and the adventurers who dared to traverse the globe on two wheels? Then you're in for a treat as we follow the path of Giulia Baroncini, who embarked on a monumental 5-month bike tour.

Inspired by legendary Italian bike tourer Luigi Masetti's groundbreaking travels, Giulia not only honors tradition but challenges the boundaries of modern bike touring. She retraced Luigi’s route from over a century ago, navigating through multiple countries and landscapes from Milan, Italy, to Chicago, USA.

Giulia’s ride is a celebration of the enduring spirit of exploration, the meaningful connections made during her long-distance bike tour, and a touching tribute to the cyclists who paved the way. Through her eyes, we're given a window into the past and the transformational power of pushing the pedals toward a grand personal odyssey.

Catch up with Giulai and follow her travels on her website, If You’re Looking for Me, I’m Around. Learn more about Luigi Masetti and get the book, “The two-wheel anarchist. Luigi Masetti: the first Italian cycle traveller.”

Join our community at Warmshowers.org, follow us on Instagram @Warmshowers_org, and visit us on Facebook. Contact Tahverlee directly at [email protected].

Theme Music by Les Konley | Produced by Les Konley

Happy riding and hosting!