The Pedalshift Project 364: C&O But Slow – Part 2

After a surprisingly fast start for a planned slow tour, it was time to head down trail. But the muddy trail conditions of the night before don’t improve with more rain, and the forecast looks pretty wet and plans… well, they’re meant to change on a big bike trip!

The Pedalshift Project 364: C&O But Slow - Part 2

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Celebrate 10 Years of Pedalshift Live 6/8

The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live show to celebrate things June 8th, at 8pm ET. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some live banter. It’ll be on the YouTube channel and here at pedalshift.net/live.

C&O But Slow – Part 2

Morning Setup and Reflections

– Description of the camping spot and the decision-making process regarding legal camping sites.

– Reflections on being overextended the previous night and the challenges of finding a good campsite.

Weather and Trail Conditions

– Noting the weather holding off the rain for a few more hours.

– Observations about the better trail surface and concerns about muddy sections post-Paw Paw Tunnel.

Camp Setup and Gear Adjustments

– Detailed account of morning activities, including packing and adjusting gear.

– Challenges with the fork bag and adjustments made to the tent setup.

Journey Begins

– Initial miles covered with observations of the surroundings and the condition of the trail.

– Encounters with traffic and reflections on the proximity of roads to the trail.

Trail Experiences

– Encounters with other cyclists, particularly a group of LE officers, and reflections on group riding dynamics.

– Decision to avoid a large group of cyclists to maintain a personal pace and experience.

Weather Check and Gear Adjustments

– Checking weather forecasts and preparing for rain by adjusting clothing and gear.

– Clearing fenders from mud and dealing with bike maintenance issues on the trail.

Scenic Observations

– Descriptions of the flora and fauna observed along the trail.

– Reflection on missing the red bud season but enjoying the current wildflower bloom.

Paw Paw Tunnel Experience

– Detailed ride through of the Paw Paw Tunnel, including conditions and the tunnel’s history.

– Observations on the descaling and maintenance efforts.

Trail Challenges and Maintenance

– Continued struggles with mud and fender issues.

– Descriptions of efforts to keep the bike in good condition amid challenging trail conditions.

Decision Points

– Considering various options for the day’s ride and the impact of weather on the plans.

– Reflections on potential stops and the possibility of a zero-mile day due to expected rain.

Hancock

– Arrival in Hancock and decision-making process about accommodations and next steps.

– Consideration of resupply options and potential camping sites.

Concluding Thoughts

– Reflection on the day’s challenges and successes.

– Cliffhanger about the decision on where to stay for the night and future plans for the ride.

Statistics

Miles biked 42
Trail surfaces 3
Liters of water purified 2.5
Decisions to be made on where to spend the night 1
Flats 0

As always we like to close out the show with a special shoutout to the Pedalshift Society! Because of support from listeners like you, Pedalshift is a weekly bicycle touring podcast with a global community, expanding into live shows and covering new tours like this summer’s upcoming bike tour! If you like what you hear, you can support the show for 5 bucks, 2 bucks or even a buck a month. And there’s one-shot and annual options if you’re not into the small monthly thing. Check it all out at pedalshift.net/society.

Kimberly Wilson
Caleb Jenkinson
Cameron Lien
Andrew MacGregor
Michael Hart
Keith Nagel
Brock Dittus
Thomas Skadow
Marco Lo
Terrance Manson
Harry Telgadas
Chris Barron
Mark Van Raam
Brad Hipwell
Mr. T
Nathan Poulton
Stephen Dickerson
Vince LoGreco
Cody Floerchinger
Tom Benenati
Greg Braithwaite
Sandy Pizzio
Jeff Muster
Seth Pollack
Joseph Quinn
Drue Porter
Byron Paterson
Joachim Raber
Ray Jackson
Jeff Frey
Kenny Mikey
Lisa Hart
John Denkler
Steve Hankel
Miguel Quinones
Alejandro Avilés-Reyes
Keith Spangler
Greg Towner
Dan Gebhart, RIP
Jody Dzuranin
Lucas Barwick
Michael Baker
Brian Bechtol
Reinhart Bigl
Greg Middlemis
Connie Moore
William Gothmann
Brian Benton
Joan Churchill
Mike Bender
Rick Weinberg
Billy Crafton
Gary Matushak
Greg L’Etoile-Lopes
James Sloan
Jonathan Dillard
John Funk
Tom Bilcze
Ronald Piroli
Dave Roll
Brian Hafner
Misha LeBlanc
Ari Messinger
David Gratke
Todd Groesbeck
Wally Estrella
Sue Reinert
John Leko
Stephen Granata
Phillip Mueller
Robert Lackey
Dominic Carol
Jacqi McCulloch
John Hickman
Carl Presseault
David Neves
Patty Louise
Terry Fitzgerald
Peter Steinmetz
Timothy Fitzpatrick
Michael Liszewski
Hank O’Donnell
David Zanoni
David Weil
Matthew Sponseller
Chad Reno
Spartan Dale
Carolyn Ferguson
Peggy Littlefield
Lauren Allansmith
Eric Burns
Thomas Pearl
Darrin McKibben
Richard Stewart
Dave Fletcher
Jack Smith
Luke Parkinson
Ryan Patterson
Cyrus Farivar
John Gardiner
Sam Scruggs

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

May 16, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 363: C&O But Slow – Part 1

Starting with a semi-eventful train to Cumberland, the tour kicks off at an unexpected pace. But with rain already soaking the trail, and more on the way would the C&O reject my desire for a chill and relaxing start to my trip?

The Pedalshift Project 362: C&O But Slow - Part 1

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Celebrate 10 Years of Pedalshift Live 6/8

The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live show to celebrate things June 8th, at 8pm ET. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some live banter. It’ll be on the YouTube channel and here at pedalshift.net/live.

C&O But Slow – Part 1

Introduction
- Preparing for a bike ride to Union Station
- Discussing train schedule and potential delays
Trip Plans
- Aiming to reach Potomac Forks
- Concerns about sunlight and trail conditions
- Personal health and readiness
Bike Setup
- New gear setup with fork bags
- Adjustments made for comfort and efficiency
- Forecast: hot and sticky with potential rain
Union Station Departure
- Chaos with Amtrak procedures and bag tags
- Interaction with train attendants and passengers
- Departure and initial impressions
Arrival in Cumberland
- Commentary on Amtrak’s inconsistent procedures
- Starting the ride on the C&O towpath
Trail Conditions
- Night riding experiences and wildlife encounters
- Challenges with muddy trail sections
- Strategies for night riding and trail navigation
Camp Setup
- Passing multiple campsites
- Decision to push on to Potomac Forks
- Filtering water and setting up camp in low light
Day Zero Reflections
- Impact of coffee on performance
- Enjoyment of night riding despite challenges
- Final campsite setup and reflections on the day
Closing Remarks
- Observations on trail and ride experiences
- Preparations for the next day’s ride

Statistics

Miles biked 18
Frogs a babillion
Stops to pull mud out of fenders 2
Proper bike tags requested by Amtrak personnel 1
Bike tags properly procured 0
Dark chocolate bars eaten 1
Flats 0

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

May 9, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 362: C&O But Slow Preview

Finding my way back onto the C&O is hardly a surprise, but this spring’s ride is taking a page from my 2024 goals… try to take some of these tours a little more slowly. On this preview episode, we cover how I think it’ll go down.

The Pedalshift Project 362: C&O But Slow Preview

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C&O But Slow Preview

Celebrate 10 Years of Pedalshift Live 6/8

The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live show to celebrate things June 8th, at 8pm ET. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some live banter. It’ll be on the YouTube channel and here at pedalshift.net/live.

The basics

Full size bike
New config (more on that in a moment)
Cumberland with Amtrak from DC and then… ?
Going with a stove this time
All camping
Forecast looks like rain
I’m getting over a cold, so not sure how that will impact things

New config?

The front rack from last season is fine but I want to try something new
Found I couldn’t get the bike in the Dogsbody bag last year and I didn’t want to keep having to install/unintall. Might end up on my ebike?
Solution: Fork bags + Hanging sleep kit from bars
7L each side
Very narrow – a little too narrow?
Allows me to be a bit more nimble

Pacing

First night will be close to a new moon unfortunately
Would love to do 20 miles even though it’s night riding
Don’t have specific plans for any particular campsites
The end of the tour is up in the air… I have two options (Martinsburg and Harpers Ferry) so if I’m really enjoying the riding, I can make the miles. But if I’m enjoying the vibes (or other things) I can make this a shorter trip with some road riding on the final day

Food/water

Will likely carry more food than I have on past trips
BUT going to do backpacking meals. Keeping it simple and light
NPS no longer treats the wells, so I have a new gravity fed water filter. Trying not to carry as much as I have in the past
Stove needed for meals, so I can at also enjoy coffee
Weather
Looks wet but not hot. Will be prepared
This might be the thing that impacts choosing a short or long ride… trail conditions, preferring to stay in the tent for a morning rain, etc. etc.

Other stuff

Paw Paw tunnel is reopened!
Not intending on climbing up to stay at my cabin (although it’s a backup option)
Name of the game is slow and steady and enjoying the ride rather than just banging out miles. Would have preferred a little more riding time on Saturday to spread it out a bit more

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

May 2, 2024

Best of Pedalshift 106: Beginners Series (2018)

Are you brand new to bicycle touring or like seeing things through the eyes of a first-timer? You’re in luck! On this episode, we revisit the 2018 Pedalshift bicycle touring beginners series, following James from NYC on his journey to his first bicycle tour. Originally podcast February 8, 2018.
Read more

April 25, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 361: The Science of Cycling

Ever wonder why it’s harder to cycle up a hill? Or why it’s easier to ride on smooth asphalt with skinny tires instead of wide tires on gravel? Turns out, there’s an answer: SCIENCE! On this edition, we delve into the (very) basics on what works against us while riding, and how we convert food into motion!

The Pedalshift Project 361: The Science of Cycling

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The Science of Cycling

Programming notes

Best of next week
Spring tour preview the week after, followed by the tour journal!
The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live show to celebrate things June 8th, at 8pm ET. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some live banter. It’ll be on the YouTube channel and here at pedalshift.net/live.

The Physics of Cycling

1. Rolling Resistance

Definition: Explain rolling resistance as the force that opposes the motion when an object (like a bicycle tire) rolls on a surface.
Factors Affecting Rolling Resistance:
- Tire Type and Pressure: Soft tires or low pressure increases resistance.
- Surface Type: Rough surfaces like gravel increase resistance compared to smooth surfaces like pavement.
Real-World Example: Compare how it feels to ride a bike on a sandy beach versus a smooth bike path.

2. Air Resistance (Drag)

Definition: Air resistance is the force air exerts against a moving object.
Factors Affecting Air Resistance:
- Speed: The faster you go, the more air resistance you face.
- Rider’s Position and Shape: Explain how being more streamlined (like bending low on the bike) reduces air resistance.
Practical Tip: Demonstrate with hands outstretched vs. hands close to the body while riding to feel the difference.

3. Energy and Power

Energy Definition: The ability to do work, like pedaling a bike.
Power Definition: How quickly you can use energy (pedal) to move.
Conversion of Energy: Discuss how food energy converts into mechanical energy to pedal.
Measurement: Mention that power can be measured in watts, like how bright a light bulb is.

4. Gravity and Hills

Gravity’s Effect on Cycling:
- Uphill: Gravity makes it harder to pedal uphill because you are working against it.
- Downhill: Gravity helps you go faster downhill.
Energy Use: Explain how more energy is needed to pedal uphill and less energy is used when coasting downhill.
Practical Tips:
- Gear Usage: Using lower gears on uphill and higher gears on flat or downhill.

The Biomechanics of Riding

1. Human-Bike Interaction

Pedaling Efficiency:
- Definition: How effectively a rider can convert their energy into motion.
- Factors Affecting Efficiency: Foot position on the pedals, the smoothness of pedaling, and maintaining a steady rhythm.
Ergonomics of Bicycle Frames and Riding Positions:
- Frame Size and Shape: Importance of having a bike frame that fits the rider’s body to avoid discomfort.
- Riding Position: Discuss how different riding positions (upright vs. leaned forward) affect comfort and speed.
Practical Tip: How to adjust a bike to fit (seat height, handlebar position).

2. Muscle Work and Efficiency

Muscle Groups Involved in Cycling:
- Main Muscles: Legs (quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves), but also mention the core and arms for balance and control.
Efficiency in Muscle Use:
- Warm-Up: Importance of warming up muscles to prevent injuries and improve performance.
- Stamina and Strength: How regular riding improves muscle strength and cardiovascular health.
Bicycle fitting can improve efficiencies

3. The Role of Gearing

What is Gearing?:
- Definition: Gearing is a way to adjust how hard or easy it is to pedal.
- How Gears Work: Explain the basics of chainrings and cogs and how changing gears changes the resistance felt when pedaling.
Choosing the Right Gear:
- Uphill and Downhill Riding: Using lower gears for uphill to make pedaling easier, and higher gears for downhill or flat surfaces to go faster.
- Cadence: Keeping a steady pedaling speed (cadence) to maintain efficiency.
Practical Tip: Encourage trying different gears during a ride to find what feels best for different terrains.

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

April 18, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 360: Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel

When we talk about mindfulness in bicycle travel, we mean paying close attention to our experiences and feelings while we are biking. Sometimes this is a natural thing to do and doesn’t require any added thought, and sometimes it’s helpful to be intentional about it because it can often enhance your travel. On this edition, we talk about how bicycling can be a mindfulness practice.

The Pedalshift Project 360: Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel

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Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel

1. Introduction to Mindfulness in Bicycle Travel

Definition of mindfulness in the context of biking
Importance of being present and enjoying each moment of the ride
Concepts of self-awareness and non-judgmental observation
Benefits of mindfulness for enhancing the enjoyment of bike trips

2. Mindful Preparation and Planning

The role of careful planning and setting intentions for bike trips
Choosing routes and destinations mindfully
How mindful planning enhances connection to the adventure

3. Experiencing Joy While Riding

The practice of being present during bike rides
Techniques for staying mindful, like deep breathing and sensory attention
Examples of joyful moments experienced by other cyclists

4. Mindful Encounters with Nature and Culture

Opportunities for connecting with nature and local communities during rides
Importance of openness and curiosity in these encounters

5. Overcoming Challenges with Mindfulness

Facing physical and environmental challenges during bike trips
Using mindfulness to manage difficult situations calmly
Stories of cyclists who overcame obstacles through mindfulness

6. Featured Stories

Story 1: The Hill and the Hawk
Story 2: Raindrops and Revelations
Story 3: The Sunset Cycle

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

April 11, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 359: Urban Bike Touring

So much of our bike travel is out on the open road, or along some back country trail. But what about the cities? On this edition, we talk about how to make cities and suburban riding a fun and enjoyable part of your next urban bike tour!

The Pedalshift Project 359: Urban Bike Touring

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 358: The eBike Build Update.

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Urban Bike Touring

Planning Your Urban Adventure

– route planning in urban areas.

– researching bike-friendly cities and regions.

– know the area and any rules of paths

Choosing the Right Bike and Gear

– bike and gear choices for urban touring.

– have a flexible setup

– Gear recommendations – locks, lights, and bags

Navigating Cities and Suburbs

– Tips for navigating city streets safely and confidently.

– Discuss bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and public transportation integration.

– Strategies for dealing with traffic and busy intersections.

Finding Accommodations

– Roofed vs unroofed

-hotels, hostels, rentals, camping.

– Plan ahead vs. staying flexible

Immerse Yourself

– Highlight the unique cultural experiences that urban touring offers.

– Suggestions for exploring local cuisine, art, and events.

– Best experiences – NYC, Tampa, SF, LA, San Diego

Challenges

– theft concerns and bike security.

– “bad parts of the city” may be real or may be reverse hype

– comfort over all else

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

April 4, 2024

Best of Pedalshift 138: Bike Touring Canada

An interview with Jesse Herbert on his experiences biike touring Canada (and around the world), plus a ton of great ideas, hacks and tips on all things bicycle touring, from lightening your load to braving a chilly night in a hammock. Originally podcast October 11, 2018.
Read more

March 28, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 358: The eBike Build Update

The big project for 2024 is building the ultimate custom e-bike. On this episode we update where I’m at with the project… have I narrowed things down or am I hopelessly lost in the paradox of choice?

The Pedalshift Project 358: The eBike Build Update

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e-Bike Build Update

Overview of the e-bike build vs. buy decision.
Experiences and research done in Portland, Oregon, highlighting e-bike focused shops.
- Special mention of Nomad Cycles for custom bike builds.
Discussion on the drawbacks of commercially available e-bikes, particularly around proprietary battery systems.
Attraction to the “Biking Brian” style of massive battery and universal adapters for custom builds.
Considerations against “chonky” e-bike frames for a sleeker, non-e-bike appearance.
The decision leaning towards a custom build for its expandability and customization.
Thoughts on suspension and tire width for e-bike comfort and stability.
Exploring the option of converting the host’s Safari touring bike into an e-bike.
- Financial and technical considerations of a DIY build.
- Potential barriers and required new skills and tools.
The sentimental value of the Safari bike and the implications of converting it.
The downsides of rim brakes on an e-bike and the consideration of disc brakes.
Timing concerns for the build project overlapping with prime touring season.
Upsides of undertaking the e-bike project: a rewarding challenge, expanding bike mechanic skills, and personalizing the bike.
Dilemmas between the ease of buying a pre-made e-bike and the appeal of a custom build.
Future steps: considering all options post upcoming spring tour with the Safari bike.
Closing thoughts on the e-bike build or buy journey and its implications for the host’s cycling future.
Mention of Biking Brian’s build video and load management insights.
Security considerations for e-bikes, particularly battery theft.
Final reflections on the episode’s discussion and the ongoing decision process.

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!

March 21, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 357: Space Coast Loop – Takeaways

With the 2024 Florida ride in the rearview mirror, it’s time to assess how it went. I did the ride a bit differently this time… was it the right call? Is there something I definitely want to do next time? And what will I never do again in the Orlando area?

The Pedalshift Project 357: Space Coast Loop - Takeaways

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Space Coast Loop – Takeaways

A Brompton can do just about any kind of touring you throw at it
Resist the temptation to leave tools at home, even for urban tours
Best sun management for me – cover up arms and legs, sunscreen face and neck
Cycling gloves do make a difference
The rumors are true: upright riding is more comfortable
The backpack trick is back, baby!
Never take US192 to cross I4 – it’s not safe
Cycling into Disney World is fun, and I think I’ll keep doing it
Central Florida is constantly evolving – some of the trails I ended up on randomly (Shingle Creek Trail opened last year – thanks for the info Fernando!)
FL C2C trail is A+ but I’m also intrigued with the Heart of FL trail and the St. Johns River to Sea Loop

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new solo album available NOW. Go listen to COMMON TONGUES wherever cool music is available!