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!

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?

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!

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