In this episode of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad dive into the gritty reality of ultra endurance unpaved cycling and the "happy little accidents" discovered while scouting The USA Trail. This installment chronicles an 1,800-mile scouting expedition through Mississippi and Louisiana, providing a masterclass in the logistics and terrain of cross-country bikepacking.

We explore the evolving concept of Basepacking—utilizing vehicles as mobile hubs to facilitate deep-country scouting—and how this approach is shaping the Trans-USA route. From the pine forests of Mississippi to the flooded levees of the Mississippi River, we break down what it takes to map a route that is scenic, safe, and sustainable.

Beyond the trail, we tackle major headlines in the gravel cycling industry, including the financial struggles of Revel Bikes and the launch of State Bicycle Co’s budget-friendly 4130 steel hardtail.

• Scouting The USA Trail: A deep dive into the 225-mile stretch across Mississippi and the 750-mile journey through Louisiana, including the best river crossings and the mystery of the "Louisiana Trails" rail-bed.

• Basepacking & Resupply: Expert tips on planning for 50-mile resupply gaps and why the Ramsey General Store is a mandatory "Oasis" for weary riders.

• Industry News: Analysis of Revel Bikes' closing and a look at State Bicycle Co's new mountain bike—plus how tariffs are impacting modern bike prices.

• The Kisatchie Forest Experience: Navigating one of the most beautiful (and bug-filled) sections of the route.

• Singletrack vs. Gravel: Kevin’s return to the North Shore singletrack on a rigid-fork single speed and the geometry of a perfect "RAT" bike.

• Chef’s Corner: Brad’s review of the St. Francisville food scene and the search for the ultimate Korean fried chicken.

Gravel Cycling, Bikepacking, The USA Trail, Basepacking, Ultra Endurance Cycling, Unpaved Bicycle Culture, Route Scouting, State Bicycle Co, Revel Bikes, Kisatchie National Forest, Single Speed Mountain Bike.

Key HighlightsSearch Optimized Keywords

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Exploring the Deep South: Bike Adventures, Hidden Trails, and Louisiana CuisineIn this episode of the Shiftless podcast, hosts Kevin and Brad dive into a fun and varied discussion about their recent adventures and plans. Kevin shares his detailed scouting trip across Mississippi and Louisiana, highlighting picturesque biking trails, unexpected resupply points, and unique challenges like unmaintained trails and thick gravel roads.

The episode also touches on amusing anecdotes such as Kevin's stop at the Francis restaurant in St. Francisville and trying local banana pudding. Meanwhile, Brad discusses his recent rides around Denton, prepping for an upcoming trip, and scratchings some culinary itches with Korean fried chicken.

The conversation covers everything from the technical aspects of bike setup to the simpler pleasures of local food, providing listeners with an engaging mix of travel stories, biking insights, and a dose of local culture.00:00 Introduction and Preamble00:34 Welcome to Shiftless Podcast01:16 Golf Stories and Weather Talk02:22 Garage Cleaning and Fixing Things03:12 Recent Adventures and Headlines04:29 Revel Bikes Closure Discussion07:48 State Bicycles New Mountain Bike16:30 Single Speed and Bike Setup26:56 Air Conditioner Troubles and Summer Tips42:01 Upcoming Ride Plans44:40 Route Scouting and Adventures46:39 Happy Little Accidents47:06 Mapping the Route from Waynesboro to Castor48:29 Exploring the Monkey Trail and Mountain Biking49:46 Scouting the Route from Minden to Texarkana52:34 Challenges of Crossing the Mississippi River59:50 The Louisiana Trails Dilemma01:09:21 Food Highlights and Happy Little Accidents01:30:45 Preparing for the Next Adventure

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This episode starts with some light-hearted banter over a poured glass of whiskey, discussing different varieties and their experiences with them. The conversation soon shifts to travel plans involving Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana, with special mentions of iconic film locations and local dining recommendations. The hosts then delve into their latest biking experiences, recounting various bike rides, tire setups, and the challenges faced with weather and gear. They reflect on their recent adventure to Johnson Branch State Park and their plans for future bike-packing trips. The episode wraps up with a light discussion on new pets and the nuances of ride preparations, making it an enriching listen for biking enthusiasts and adventure lovers alike.00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter00:56 Travel Plans and Destinations02:57 Weather and Cycling Challenges04:05 Cycling Adventures and Mishaps08:27 E-Bike Considerations and Future Plans09:24 Race Across Texas and Training14:19 Sea Otter Classic and Cycling Innovations29:20 Red River Riot Recap38:45 Facing the Quit Monster39:12 Mental Gymnastics and Bailouts40:06 The Pain Cave and Bailout Bracelets40:35 Motivation and Finishing the Ride41:18 Disappointments and Expectations42:19 The Importance of a Supportive Finish43:10 The Four R Environment44:32 Exploring Gravel Cycling Destinations47:44 Bike Packing Adventures50:46 Tire Swapping and Maintenance57:14 New Gadgets and Electric Pumps58:08 Bike Bags and Tools01:12:50 Dog Adventures and New Additions01:16:01 Scouting Trips and Future Plans

It isn't a true bicycle adventure until the original plan falls apart.

To celebrate 100 episodes of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad head to Johnson Branch State Park for a milestone overnighter. This episode serves as a live "shakedown" of their different approaches to bike camping—from Brad’s traditional hammock setup to Kevin’s "Go Box" logistics—all while pivoting from a failed campsite reservation at Isle du Bois.

In this episode, we deconstruct:

• The "Audible" Strategy: How to handle last-minute logistics when park facilities fail (the well water crisis).

• Garmin Varia & Safety Tech: A deep dive into why rearview radar is the single best piece of mind for gravel and road riding.

• Arclight Pedals vs. Blinkies: Why your pedaling style (deep heel vs. ball of foot) affects your visibility to cars.

• E-Bike vs. Analog Caloric Burn: Analyzing the 50-mile "Discrepancy" and why heart rate zones are the only way to equalize a group ride.

• Bikepacking Shelters: Comparing one-man tents vs. hammock setups for North Texas conditions.

• The "Taco Casa" Factor: Why the best adventures are fueled by gas station audibles and unplanned pizza stops.

Whether you are hitting the LBJ Grasslands or scouting segments of THE USA TRAIL, this episode highlights the strategic mindset required to turn a "wrong turn" into a legendary story.

Connect with the Community:

• Spinistry Events: www.spinistry.net

• The USA Trail: www.theusatrail.com

• Food. Adventures. Memories. Visit us at www.eatatfam.com

• Follow the Journey: Join us as we scout the transcontinental USA Trail and define the future of BasePacking.

Keywords: Bikepacking Overnighter, Garmin Varia Radar Review, Bike Camping Gear List, Johnson Branch State Park Cycling, North Texas Gravel Routes, E-bike vs Analog Cycling Calories, Spinistry, BasePacking, Arclight Pedals.

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Episode 100: Celebrating a Century of Adventures on ShiftlessIn this milestone 100th episode of the 'Shiftless' podcast, hosts Brad and Kevin celebrate their journey of creating a century of episodes, recounting their latest adventure on an impromptu bikepacking trip.

Despite unpredictable weather and multiple plan adjustments, they share their excitement of achieving this milestone. From reminiscing about past rides and camping stories to discussing their current trip at Johnson Branch State Park, the hosts offer an engaging mix of humor, cycling insights, and camaraderie.

The episode also hears some guest appearances, including Rich, who adds a touch of whiskey-fueled fun to the gathering. Join them for a heartfelt, hilarious, and insightful celebration of 100 episodes focused on their love for bicycling adventures, bikepacking basics, and the cycling community.00:00 Introduction and Setup00:40 Celebrating 100 Episodes02:31 Weather and Ride Experience15:40 Unexpected Lunch Stop22:13 Camping and Gear Talk34:52 Bike Packing Saddlebag Issues35:03 Radar Awareness on the Ride36:14 Group Ride Radar Sharing36:41 Radar Curiosity and Alternatives39:02 Traffic and Road Conditions49:51 Calorie Burn and Heart Rate Zones01:08:25 E-Bike Discussions and Future Trends01:14:28 Battery Issues with Apple Computers01:15:31 E-Bike Battery Longevity01:16:51 E-Bikes in the RV Community01:18:17 Debate on E-Bike Durability01:21:17 Aluminum vs. Carbon Frames01:36:27 The Red River Riot Event01:52:34 Memorable Bikepacking Stories

In Episode 99 of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad dive into the "burn" of the week—both literal and metaphorical. From local brush fire drama to the high-stakes cancellation of Mid South 2025, this episode explores the shifting landscape of unpaved bicycle culture.

We take a hard look at why gravel racing giants are feeling the heat, the "COVID hangover" affecting event attendance, and why more riders are moving toward selective, grassroots experiences. We also geek out on the latest industry shifts, including Gary Fisher’s new E-bike venture, the 15-minute fast-charging battery, and the struggle between direct-to-consumer models and the Local Bike Shop (LBS).

Whether you are training for an ultra-endurance race or prepping for a self-supported bikepacking mission, we’re talking about the gear, the grit, and the community that keeps us on the dirt.

• The Mid South Wildfire Cancellation: A deep dive into the logistics, the promoter’s perspective, and the financial reality of "Mega Gravel."

• Industry Deep Dive: Why are Giant, Specialized, and Trek seeing a 60% profit dip? We discuss the E-bike saturation point and the future of bike retail.

• Gary Fisher & Morrell: Can a 15-minute charge change the gravel e-bike game?

• The Next Gen: The massive growth of youth cycling and the impact of NICA on mountain bike culture.

• Project Updates: A look ahead at The USA Trail verification and how Basepacking is redefining the vehicle-supported adventure.

• Training & Longevity: Dealing with knee issues, using rowers for cross-training, and staying on the bike at 60.

Gravel cycling, gravel racing, bikepacking, ultra endurance unpaved cycling, The USA Trail, Basepacking, Mid South gravel, unpaved culture, ShiftLess podcast.

Inside This Episode:Keywords Included:

This episode of ShiftLess brings a live audience to Soul Fire Brewing in Roanoke, TX, for a deep dive into the grit and artistry of unpaved bicycle culture. We are joined by Owen Jones and Nikki Simic, the filmmakers behind the acclaimed documentary 1000 Miles in a Dusty Saddle, which chronicles the grueling RAT 1000 (Race Across Texas).

In this "Expert Edition" session, the crew explores what it takes to capture the essence of ultra endurance unpaved cycling on film. From chasing riders across the Texas Panhandle to the philosophy of "Type 2 Fun," we break down the intersection of storytelling and gravel cycling.

• The Making of 1000 Miles in a Dusty Saddle: Director Owen Jones and DP Nikki Simic discuss the 18-month journey to produce their 36-minute masterpiece.

• Cinematography on the Move: How they used truck-mounted gimbals and drones to battle 30mph headwinds and capture the "Spaghetti Western" feel of the Texas landscape.

• Basepacking for Film: A look at the logistics of vehicle-supported filmmaking—essentially a professional version of Basepacking—and how to manage gear, batteries, and sanity on a 10-day expedition.

• The USA Trail & Texas Routes: Kevin discusses the evolution of the RAT 1000 and its role in the broader context of The USA Trail, highlighting the importance of route finding as a creative art form.

• Human Elements of the RAT: Authentic stories from the field featuring legendary riders like Rich Walshmidt, Steve Pushy, and Levi. We explore why riders drop out and the mental fortitude required to reach the finish line.

• Punk Rock & Counterculture: The parallels between the DIY bikepacking scene and the backyard skatepark documentary project Owen and Nikki are currently scouting.

The filmmakers explain their "Sunday in Hell" inspiration and why they chose a 3-act storytelling structure to bridge the gap between niche gravel cycling and a wider audience.

Whether you are a veteran of the RAT 1000, an aspiring filmmaker, or someone planning their first multi-day journey on The USA Trail, this episode provides rare insight into the "Raw Boots on the Ground" reality of unpaved adventure. We also touch on the future of unpaved bicycle culture and the importance of mentorship in creative trades.

Keywords: Gravel Cycling, Bikepacking, Ultra Endurance Cycling, The USA Trail, Basepacking, RAT 1000, Race Across Texas, 1000 Miles in a Dusty Saddle, Unpaved Bicycle Culture, ShiftLess Podcast.

Ready to ride into the dust? Join the conversation as we pull back the curtain on the most authentic Texas cycling film ever made.

Filming the RAT 1000: Ultra Endurance Bikepacking, Unpaved Culture & The USA Trail | Ep. 98Inside the Episode:Documentary Pacing vs. The Race RealityWhy Listen?

Movie is here: https://youtu.be/KZr5fVdbJiU?si=VwOBWk3YK1fTeioO

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Welcome to ShiftLess, your home for unpaved bicycle culture. In Episode 97, Kevin and Brad dive deep into the rapidly shifting landscape of gravel cycling and ultra-endurance unpaved cycling, from the pro peloton’s doping rumors to the technical innovations redefining the "marginal gains" era.

We kick things off with a debrief on the recent gravel/pave classic where Tadej Pogačar once again defied physics, sparking a candid discussion on the new frontiers of bio-doping and mechanical cheating. Is the "spirit of gravel" being traded for unfair advantages, or is this just the natural evolution of professional cycling?

In this episode, we discuss:

• Dylan Johnson’s 2025 Bike Build: A breakdown of the aero-optimized setup including 165mm short cranks, internal cable routing, and the transition from Shimano to SRAM Red to utilize high-efficiency KMC chains.

• The "Mud Safety" Debate: Analyzing the decision to shorten the Valley of Tears gravel race. We weigh the safety of elite racers against the grit required for ultra-endurance competition and why the pointy end of the field needs to "toughen up."

• The USA Trail & Basepacking: Kevin shares updates on the 4,000-mile transcontinental project, discussing how Basepacking—using a vehicle as a mobile hub—is facilitating the physical verification of the nation’s premier unpaved route.

• Bikepacking Gear Evolution: Brad’s latest purchase, the Durston X-Dome tent, leads into a comparison of tents vs. asymmetrical hammocks (like the Dutchware Chameleon) and the hunt for the ultimate ultra-light sleeping pad.

• State Bicycle Co. Carbon All-Road: A first look at the new carbon rig featuring 2.2” tire clearance, down tube storage, and UDH compatibility.

• ShiftLess Ventures: Kevin ponders opening a boutique bike shop focused on direct-to-consumer brands (State, Intense, Scott) and high-quality used builds to lower the barrier for new gravel riders.

• DIY Maintenance: The value of blind bearing removal kits for servicing bottom brackets and hubs at home.

Whether you are training for your next gravel race or planning a cross-country bikepacking expedition, join us for an unfiltered look at the tech, the ethics, and the community of unpaved riding.

“Everyone has a plan until they hit 4 miles of peanut butter mud on the Red Roads.” — Go ride your bike.

Keyword Overview for OptimizationTopicKey KeywordsCycling DisciplinesGravel cycling, gravel racing, bikepacking, ultra-endurance unpaved cyclingNew ProjectsThe USA Trail, Basepacking, ShiftLess Bike ShopTech & GearDurston X-Dome, State Bicycle Co Carbon, short cranks, internal routingCulturePro doping, mechanical doping, race safety, spirit of gravelExport to Sheets

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In this episode of ShiftLess, Kevin and Brad dive deep into the grit and glamour of unpaved bicycle culture. Brad returns from a top-secret Shimano production shoot in Terlingua, Texas, sharing stories from the desert, the "small world" reality of the cycling industry, and a surprising run-in with results from Dirty Kanza 2012.

We tackle the heavy-hitting topics in gravel cycling: the dark clouds of potential cheating at the pointy end of the field, and the news that the 2025 UCI Gravel World Championship is currently without a host city. Kevin reviews the new State Bicycle Co. 4130 All-Road, debating whether a sub-$1,000 steel bike is the ultimate entry point for bikepacking and ultra endurance unpaved cycling.

Whether you’re interested in gravel racing logistics, the technical war between 1x and 2x drivetrains, or how Basepacking is essential for verifying remote segments of The USA Trail, this episode has the insights you need.

• The Terlingua Magic: Inside a secret Shimano photo shoot and the logistics of cooking for pro riders in the middle of nowhere.

• UCI Gravel Worlds in Limbo: Why Nice, France, is out and where the 2025 championships might land.

• The Cheating Debate: From the 1904 Tour de France train-hoppers to current concerns about doping in the US gravel scene.

• Gear & Tech: * The Silca and Specialized partnership bringing chain waxing to retail stores.

  • Intense Cycles’ "Frame First" program with QBP.

  • 1x vs. 2x Drivetrains: Efficiency, chain line, and why the front derailleur might be making a comeback.

• State Bicycle Co. 4130 All-Road: A first-ride review of the $999 steel gravel grinder that’s shaking up the entry-level market.

• Mapping the Wild: Why the REI/PeopleForBikes access tool struggles with accuracy and why physical verification is still the gold standard for The USA Trail.

Gravel cycling, gravel racing, bikepacking, ultra endurance unpaved cycling, The USA Trail, Basepacking, Shimano GRX, SRAM Axis, State Bicycle Co, UCI Gravel Worlds, ShiftLess podcast.

Key Topics Covered:Optimized Keywords:

State Bicycles partner link: https://alnk.to/9Ifw9ex

Kevin's YouTube video: https://youtu.be/fZHpVskOzwc?si=Q5eATLueA3XHyi_G

Brad's history video: https://youtu.be/JMZbU6on43k

UCI Gravel Worlds Turmoil: https://www.bicycleretailer.com/retail-news/2025/03/04/specialized-retail-stores-offer-chain-waxing-silca-partnership

Conversations from Casa Verde: Adventures in Terlingua and Affordable Gravel Bikes

In this episode, the hosts discuss their recent activities, including a trip to Terlingua, Texas, for a photo shoot with Shimano and a deep dive into cooking and cycling in the desert. They highlight the excellent food prepared for the crew, the beautiful landscape, and memorable cycling rides in the area. The conversation moves to the accessibility of gravel biking, featuring a detailed overview of the new State Bicycle Co. 4130 All-Road bike, its affordability, components, and potential as a gateway for new riders into the gravel scene. The dialogue also delves into technical aspects of bike maintenance, the pros and cons of electronic shifting, and recent updates from the cycling industry, including Silca's collaboration with Specialized and Intense Cycle's new program with QBP for custom bike builds.

https://www.bicycleretailer.com/announcements/2025/03/04/intense-cycles-works-solve-ibd-challenges

Shiftless Episode 95: Cycling Industry Insights, Garmin Innovations, and the Impact of Public Lands Cuts

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Tariffs and how they are affecting the bicycle industry
https://www.peopleforbikes.org/news/bikes-and-e-bikes-avoid-new-tariffs

Cutting Public Lands Workforce Will Have Consequences For Outdoor Recreation 
https://www.outdooralliance.org/blog/2025/2/21/press-release-cutting-the-public-lands-workforce-will-have-consequences-for-outdoor-recreation

Finally some good news from an industry giant?
https://www.bicycleretailer.com/industry-news/2025/02/19/garmin-reports-record-year-consolidated-revenue

Salsa releases carbon Tributary 
https://pages.qbp.com/index.php/email/emailWebview?email=Nzk2LVhBSy04MTEAAAGY5qLr7XkcI7XEHnlRi4FxPF1JclfY_KlGQ6_aAj19jimhkg7_FBTsubtOr1FCcIghn1ctX4OsUiVkocBHOV57R2y28IKIdpal7Q

• Carbon gravel bike recall due to catastrophic failure? 
  https://www.cyclingnews.com/news/bmc-issues-immediate-stop-ride-notice-on-gravel-bike-due-to-potential-fork-steerer-separation/

In this episode of Shiftless, Kevin navigates potential new directions for the show while sharing updates about co-hosts Caleb and Brad's exciting trip to Big Bend National Park.

Key topics include a significant carbon gravel bike recall due to fork steer separation issues, and insights into recent industry shifts, such as Salsa rolling out a new carbon-version bike and the potential impact of tariffs on the U.S. bicycle industry.

The episode also discusses the consequences of reducing the public lands workforce on outdoor recreation and highlights Garmin's record revenue, driven particularly by their fitness products. Real-life experiences emphasize the importance of Garmin devices and proper staffing for safe outdoor adventures. Listeners are encouraged to share their opinions via email is preferred over comments. The episode concludes with an affirmation to get out and ride their bikes.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:19 Upcoming Adventures and Stories

00:47 New Format and Topics

01:56 Industry News: Carbon Gravel Bike Recall

03:50 Impact of Tariffs on the Bicycle Industry

07:08 Public Lands Workforce Cuts

10:45 Garmin's Record Year and Product Insights

24:37 Salsa's New Carbon Bike Release

31:19 BMC Gravel Bike Recall

32:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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This episode of ShiftLess tackles the age-old question: Can a dedicated road cyclist survive and thrive at the Leadville 100 MTB? We also go deep on the science of wide tires in gravel cycling, explore technical E-bike trails in Arkansas, and provide the latest updates from The USA Trail scouting missions.

In this episode, Kevin and Chef Brad are back in the thick of it, discussing everything from "Amish bikes" to the $4,500 price tag on titanium frames. We dive into a listener's quest to transition from smooth tarmac to the high-altitude lung-buster of Leadville, while debating if Dylan Johnson’s wide-tire gospel is finally ending the era of narrow rubber.

• The Leadville Transition: Expert advice for roadies entering the Leadville 100 MTB lottery. We break down the holy trinity of prep: Altitude acclamation, downhill skills, and why you might need a 650B conversion for your gravel rig.

• Wide Tire Science: Analyzing the latest data on why 2.1" to 2.3" tires are outperforming traditional narrow gravel tires on everything from chip-seal to chunky unpaved roads.

• Arkansas E-Bike Scouting: Brad recaps his trip to Mount Nebo State Park and the Womble Trail, discussing the physical reality of "manhandling" a 50lb bike on tight, armored bench-cuts.

• Bike Tech Deep Dive: * Salsa Cycles: A look at the new Fargo iteration and why the Cutthroat remains the industry standard for bikepacking and ultra-endurance racing.

  • Titanium Fever: Is a Chumba Ti frame really worth the $4,500 entry fee?

• The USA Trail Update: Kevin shares stories from his Florida scouting mission through the Okefenokee Swamp and Osceola National Forest, refining the 4,000-mile transcontinental route.

• Basepacking Philosophy: How vehicle-supported scouting is changing the way we map out ultra-endurance unpaved cycling routes.

To earn the coveted "Big Buckle" at Leadville, riders must finish under the 9-hour mark. For a road-focused athlete, this requires a specific balance of power and technical conservation:

• Elevation Gain: Roughly 12,000 feet of climbing.

• Highest Point: 12,570 feet (Columbine Mine).

• Sub-9 Finish Rate: Historically, only about 25-30% of the field breaks the 9-hour barrier, making equipment choice and high-altitude training non-negotiable.

Whether you’re a "weight weenie" on flats or a Basepacking enthusiast with a specialized vehicle fleet, this episode offers authentic insight into the grit and gear required for unpaved bicycle culture. We also touch on the culinary side of scouting, featuring the perfect Tampa-style Cuban sandwich and the art of cold-smoking salt for backcountry pork rubs.

Keywords: Gravel Cycling, Leadville 100 MTB, Bikepacking, Ultra Endurance Cycling, The USA Trail, Basepacking, Salsa Cutthroat, Wide Tire Tech, Unpaved Bicycle Culture, ShiftLess Podcast.

Ready to trade your tarmac for the trails? Join us as we bridge the gap between road speed and mountain grit.

How are you preparing your gear for the upcoming season—are you sticking with 40mm tires, or are you ready to go full "Monster Cross" with 2.2s?

Leadville 100 MTB Prep for Roadies: Wide Tire Science, The USA Trail, and Arkansas E-Bike Epics | Ep. 93Episode Highlights:The Leadville "Big Belt Buckle" by the NumbersWhy Listen?