Road Adventures of Cycling Men of Leisure

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The Georgia hills couldn't break us! Picking up where we left off, Adam and Michael complete their wild journey across Georgia with the BRAG cycling event, sharing every triumph, challenge, and laugh along the way.

Our layover day in Dawsonville delivers pure adrenaline as we race high-performance go-karts at AMP track, where Michael edges out Adam by just four one-hundredths of a second (a fact Adam graciously acknowledges... eventually). But the adventure doesn't stop there—we hike 475 stairs to witness the majestic Amicalola Falls, proving that cycling men of leisure occasionally enjoy adventures on foot too.

The camaraderie of the cycling community shines throughout our journey. Our team dinner brings together 33 riders from across the country, many meeting for the first time despite sharing this passion for years. We're unexpectedly showered with gifts of regional whiskeys and massive flasks—tokens of appreciation that highlight the generous spirit of our growing community. Later, we host an impromptu "speakeasy" under the BRAG tent, sharing drinks and stories as rain patters overhead.

Franklin Johnson, Executive Director of BRAG, joins us to discuss this year's successful northern route. With nearly 900 riders tackling the challenging hills, Franklin shares insights on weather conditions, safety measures, and the unique appeal of Georgia's less-traveled roads. From bone-rattling South Carolina pavement to the infamous "Medusa Hill" that forced 90% of riders to walk, each mile offered its own story.

Whether you're planning your own cross-state adventure or simply enjoy tales from the road, this episode captures the essence of what makes cycling special—it's never just about the destination, but the journey and the people we meet along the way. Subscribe now and join our next adventure as we prepare to tackle Indiana in a single day!

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Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

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Saddle up for an exhilarating journey across Georgia with the Cycling Men of Leisure as we lead our largest-ever team of 43 riders through the challenging Appalachian foothills. This episode captures the first half of our fourth consecutive BRAG (Bike Ride Across Georgia) adventure, where the terrain proved anything but flat.

From Rome to Jasper to Dawsonville, we navigate the notorious "Three-Headed Medusa Hill" – a punishing 14% grade climb that humbled even the most experienced cyclists in our group. Between the grueling ascents, we discover the rich tapestry of small-town Georgia, including a visit to "the only legal distillery in Jasper," where smoked cinnamon old-fashioneds become our recovery drink of choice.

Beyond the cycling, this episode reveals the logistics, camaraderie, and unexpected moments that define a great bicycle tour. We explore our experience with Padre Cycle Inn's full-service camping option (a game-changer for multi-day rides), engage in a playful rivalry with the "Cycling Women Against Leisure" team, and encounter remarkable local characters like Chris, who created an entire cycling park from recycled factory materials.

The episode features on-location audio from our distillery visit and an interview with the team behind Padre Cycle Inn, showcasing how their service transforms the traditional camping experience for cyclists. Whether you're planning your own cycling adventure or simply enjoy experiencing the journey vicariously, this episode delivers equal parts inspiration and practical insight.

Stay tuned for part two, where we'll reveal who conquered the go-kart track, share our interview with BRAG's executive director, and wrap up our Georgia cycling adventure. Subscribe now to ensure you don't miss the conclusion of our cross-state odyssey!

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Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Adventure meets technology in this gear-up episode as Adam and Michael prepare for their upcoming Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) journey and explore essential tech tools for cyclists.

The duo celebrates a milestone moment when Adam correctly guesses Huntsville, Alabama as the previous Listener Spotlight location—the rocket city that inspired Elton John's iconic song. This rare victory sparks friendly banter as they share how multiple listeners submitted correct answers for the first time in the podcast's history.

Weather technology takes center stage as they discuss crucial apps that have transformed the cycling experience. Michael reveals his reliance on Weather Underground and Radar Scope for detailed storm tracking, while Adam demonstrates his strategic method of saving multiple destination points in his weather app to monitor conditions across entire routes. The Windy app emerges as a cyclist's secret weapon, providing crucial information about potential headwinds or tailwinds that can make or break a day's ride.

The conversation shifts to geocaching—a GPS-based treasure hunting activity that combines perfectly with cycling adventures. From library-based hunts to trackable items that can follow your bike's journey, this emerging hobby offers a compelling reason to explore new routes and destinations.

Most exciting is their upcoming first experience with a full-service charter during BRAG. After years of handling their own logistics, they're trying Padres Cycling Inn's comprehensive package that includes tent setup, gear transportation, and amenities that promise to transform their multi-day ride experience. The anticipation is palpable as they compare packing strategies and debate whether luxury services might spoil them for future independent adventures.

Between discussions of sun protection strategies and family moments, their friendship and shared passion for cycling shines through. Whether you're a weather app enthusiast, curious about geocaching, or considering a charter service for your next cycling event, this episode delivers practical insights and entertaining stories that will have you ready to hit the road.

Join us for our next episode on June 12th, slightly delayed as we return from BRAG with fresh experiences and interviews to share!

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Mother's Day meets cycling adventures in this spirited episode where we dive into the exciting plans for Big Brag 2025 with Executive Director Franklin Johnson. Before our special interview, we share some cycling-related Mother's Day facts and celebrate that our upcoming Big Brag adventure coincides with World Bicycle Day on June 3rd!

Michael regales us with tales from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting, complete with plentiful Dairy Queen ice cream and Warren Buffett's retirement announcement. We also crown a winner in our Listener Spotlight segment, revealing Naples, Florida—the golf capital of the world with more golf holes per capita than anywhere else in the United States—as our mystery location.

The highlight of our episode is our exclusive conversation with Franklin Johnson, who shares breathtaking details about his recent Croatia cycling adventure before unveiling exciting plans for the Dawsonville rest day during Big Brag 2025. Franklin describes what he calls "Awesomeville" activities including cycling on a professional F1 racetrack, racing go-karts at 60mph, and visiting Amicalola Falls—Georgia's tallest waterfall. We learn about convenient shuttles, nearby dining options, and even a distillery within walking distance of camp. Throughout our conversation, Franklin provides valuable updates on route planning, century-ride adjustments, and helpful logistics for participants.

As the episode wraps up, we tease special team activities planned for Dawsonville and launch a new Listener Spotlight challenge featuring clues about a city that changed its name before the War of 1812, had nine Civil War generals from opposing sides born nearby, and could have inspired a famous Elton John song.

Ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure? Listen now and discover why Dawsonville promises to be the highlight of Big Brag 2025! Whether you're already registered or considering joining us, this episode will fuel your excitement for what lies ahead on Georgia's beautiful roads.

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Balancing indoor training with ambitious road adventures takes center stage as Michael shares his surprisingly successful Peloton strategy—hiding the time and distance metrics that once dominated his attention. While Adam admits to having fancy indoor training equipment that rarely sees use, both hosts recognize the value of winter preparation as they gear up for their most ambitious challenge yet.

July will find our Cycling Men of Leisure tackling the RAIN Ride—an epic 165-mile single-day journey across Indiana from Terre Haute to Richmond. With a 14-hour window to complete the course, they'll be pushing their endurance limits while staying true to their leisure philosophy. "I'm not trying to break any land speed records," Michael explains. "I just want to get those 165 miles under my belt."

The cycling economy makes a significant appearance as the hosts discuss how recent tariff increases are already impacting major brands like Trek, Specialized, and Electra. Both admit to accelerating some gear purchases to beat the price hikes, from specialized lights that mount with cycling computers to essential maintenance supplies. The practical realities of cycling extend to travel logistics as they share hard-earned wisdom about transporting bikes through airports without losing vehicles to tow trucks.

The episode's true highlight comes through community connection as listeners contribute their favorite cycling playlist songs—ranging from instrumental western themes and country classics to hip-hop tracks and extended jam songs. Whether you're pedaling to the Bonanza theme or "Jump Around" by House of Pain, the soundtrack of your journey reflects your unique cycling personality.

Tune in for training tips, economic insights, and community connections that celebrate cycling's simple joys while preparing for its grandest adventures. And stay tuned for exclusive details about Big Brag 2025, coming in our next episode!

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

The unique balance of practical cycling wisdom and lighthearted camaraderie takes center stage as Adam and Michael reunite to share their latest adventures. After catching up on life updates, they dive into preparations for their upcoming summer cycling challenge featuring nearly 20,000 feet of climbing. With characteristic humor, they laugh about the recurring question they face: "Have you been training?" – always asked with a knowing smirk.

The conversation takes a fascinating detour as Michael recounts his recent Comic-Con experience. His vivid descriptions of elaborate Star Wars cosplayers, complete with movie-quality costumes and props, reveals an appreciation for passionate communities that mirrors the cycling world. This entertaining cultural aside provides a refreshing perspective on how different hobby groups express their enthusiasm.

A highlight of this episode is the introduction of the Cycling Men of Leisure playlist project. Adam and Michael share their initial contributions including Mungo Jerry's "In the Summertime," Panic at the Disco's "High Hopes," Peter Gabriel's "Sledgehammer," and AC/DC's "Thunderstruck." They invite listeners to contribute songs that enhance their own cycling experiences – whether for motivation during rides or relaxation afterward – creating a collaborative community project.

Beyond the entertainment, the hosts deliver a crucial piece of practical advice for cyclists embarking on multi-day rides: always carry a spare derailleur hanger specific to your bike model. Drawing from their experience witnessing stranded riders, they emphasize how this small, inexpensive part can save your ride when mechanical problems strike far from home.

What songs power your cycling adventures? Share your recommendations with us and join our growing community of riders who understand that cycling is about the journey, not just the destination.

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Shane Cusick takes us on a fascinating journey through the transforming landscape of cycling, drawing from his rich experiences as both the former tour director of Bike Virginia and founder of Pello Bikes, a children's bicycle company focused on quality and performance.

The cycling world stands at a crossroads. Traditional multi-day cycling tours that once drew thousands of participants are now struggling to survive. Shane reveals how Bike Virginia, which previously attracted 2,000 cyclists annually, saw attendance plummet to just 450 riders in its most recent edition. This trend extends beyond Virginia's borders, with established events like Cycle Oregon, Bike Florida, and Ride the Rockies all facing existential challenges. The causes? A perfect storm of demographic shifts as Baby Boomers age out of longer tours, younger generations preferring different riding styles, growing safety concerns about road cycling, and the lasting impact of the pandemic.

Behind the scenes, tour management presents incredible logistical challenges. Shane shares colorful stories of 18-hour workdays, last-minute venue cancellations, and the constant juggling act required to move thousands of cyclists safely through Virginia's communities. His description of the adrenaline-fueled six-day tours provides a window into why these events create such powerful memories for participants, despite the enormous effort required to execute them.

The conversation shifts to children's cycling when Shane discusses founding Pello Bikes, his company dedicated to creating proper bicycles for young riders. The revelation that most children's bikes are unnecessarily heavy and poorly designed sparked his mission to build lightweight, quality bicycles featuring appropriate components for small hands. Most fascinating is his insight into how balance bikes have revolutionized early cycling, enabling children to master balance first – often starting as young as age one – and thereby learning to ride years earlier than previous generations.

Whether you're interested in cycling event trends, the challenges facing the bicycle industry, or simply how to give your child the best start on two wheels, this episode delivers valuable insights from someone who's lived at the intersection of cycling advocacy, event management, and bicycle design for over fifteen years.

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Dive into a new episode of Cycling Men of Leisure where the joy of cycling truly takes center stage! We're excited to share stories, updates, and insights from our community of cycling enthusiasts. The journey is as rewarding as the ride itself, and in this episode, we showcase memorable experiences and playful anecdotes—from planning new jersey designs to tackling the upcoming RAIN Ride adventure.

We feel a strong connection with our audience as we explore leisure cycling’s lighter side, while creating an engaging dialogue on how to approach our rides. We'll share the milestones achieved, the hurdles encountered, and the laughter that arises from relatable mishaps. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or just dipping into the world of biking, there are valuable takeaways awaiting.

Along the way, we take a refreshing detour into our recent cocktail adventures, highlighting delightful experiences at unique restaurants that blend beautiful presentations with extraordinary flavors. Join us in exploring how food, drink, and cycling draw us closer together, offering moments that transform our rides into epic journeys.

Let’s continue celebrating the spirit of leisure cycling! Subscribe, share, and leave us a review to help spread the joy further among fellow cycling enthusiasts. Your support keeps our community vibrant and growing—what cycling adventure will you embark on next?

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Returning from the sunshine of Florida to the frosty embrace of home brought a mix of joy and challenges, a journey Adam and I, Michael, recount with warmth and humor. Ever wondered about the true fashion crime of bucket hats? We tackle this hard-hitting issue, fueled by listener feedback, while also sharing heartwarming stories from our leisure community, like Rob Menser’s update on the RAIN event and Armando’s inspiring comeback story. We keep the laughs going with a spirited debate about whether you "call in sick" or "call out sick," driven by your opinions.

Our exploration takes a detour to Millsboro, Delaware, a town known for its weather extremes. From its origins as Rock Hole Mills to its current identity, Millsboro's story is a fascinating blend of history and climate trivia that kept our listeners guessing until the reveal. Shoutout to everyone who engaged with us in this segment and successfully identified the town. Your participation adds richness to our episodes, and we love featuring your guesses and opinions.

Joining us on the mic are Jimmy and Dave from Padre's Cycle Inn, sharing the origins of Padre Cycling Charter, founded by a retired police officer and minister. Their insights into the camaraderie and logistical genius behind cycling events are as refreshing as the wind on the trail. From tips on baggage handling and tent setups to the joys of early registration, we cover it all. Whether you’re aiming to join the Peddler's Jamboree or contemplating a new cycling adventure, we've got you covered with the latest registration timelines and a cheeky new tagline: "Get registered, and let someone else put up your tent!

Support

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Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com

Send us Fan Mail

Ever tried scoring discounted wood using purple paint or faced assumptions about your friendship with a dining buddy at Disney? Join us on "Road Adventures with Cycling Men of Leisure" as Adam and Michael take a light-hearted journey through the sunny realms of Florida. We explore the amusing clash of Michael's work commitments with Adam's leisurely golf outings, and the surprising creation of our makeshift studio. Our listener community is also buzzing with divided opinions on ketchup and enjoys playful sound effects, especially when Michael gets hilariously censored.

But that's not all! We've got exciting news with a practical addition to our merchandise—a sports bra designed for women cyclists. We reminisce about the QR code challenges from the COVID era and gear up for thrilling upcoming cycling events like BRAG and Bourbon County Burn. Plus, there's a mysterious community with a hint of history waiting to be explored. Don't miss our tales of unexpected encounters, like the infamous "bucket hat at a fine dining restaurant" escapade, and prepare for a big announcement about an upcoming ride that's got us all excited.

From dining disturbances at Disney to overcoming escalator fears, our road adventures are packed with humor and camaraderie. As two middle-aged friends navigate societal assumptions and amusing misunderstandings, we share personal triumphs and build anticipation for future cycling challenges. Whether it's planning a rigorous ride across Indiana or reminiscing about intriguing historical tidbits from Wyoming, this episode promises an entertaining and inspiring ride for our cycling community. So gear up and join us for an episode filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of leisure amidst our cycling adventures!

Support

Support the show

Adam and Michael’s friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life’s twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com