Category: podcast

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

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!

March 14, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 356: Space Coast Loop – Part 4

The final day of the Space Coast Loop was supposed to be the easiest… a familiar route and a familiar destination, with maybe a quirk at the end. But would my luck avoiding mechanicals finally run out and would making a route change in the middle of the ride end up putting me in the middle of an interstate highway?

The Pedalshift Project 356: Space Coast Loop - Part 4

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Space Coast Loop – Part 4

An Early Start: Starting in St. Cloud, riding by a nearby farm.
Route Change: Deciding to take a more direct route including an unfamiliar trail.
Riding on US 192: Riding on US 192, recalling past experiences.
Assessing Traffic Conditions: Planning to evaluate safety and traffic near Disney Resort.
A Mechanical Issue: Facing and resolving a chain jam.
Discovering and Using Trails: Finding and using multi-use paths and trails.
Encountering Wildlife and Agriculture: Commenting on cows and agriculture near urban areas.
Navigating Challenges: US 192 is a bad idea to ride when it crosses I-4!
Reflecting on Planning vs. Reality: Reflecting on the differences between planning and actual conditions.
Concluding at Coronado Springs Resort: Ending the day at Coronado Springs Resort, opting for a lift to another location.

Statistics

Miles biked 34.8
Terrible route change ideas 1
Creams in my iced coffee 2
55+ resorts biked by 3? more?
Chain jams 1
Flats 0

Trip Overview

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!

February 29, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 355: Space Coast Loop – Part 3

Day 3 of the ride was a return to a familiar road route that kicked off this whole riding in Florida thing all the way back in 2019. But after two days of mostly idyllic trail riding, would competing for asphalt with cars and trucks be a rude awakening? And also, what direction are the prevailing winds in Florida again?

The Pedalshift Project 355: Space Coast Loop - Part 3

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Space Coast Loop – Part 3

Morning Preparations and Departure
- Early morning considerations for layer adjustment due to temperature changes.
- Decision against taking a shortcut due to inferior biking infrastructure, opting for safer, longer routes with better facilities.
Route and Scenery
- Travel south of Titusville on Indian River Road, enjoying the views and calm traffic with speed bumps to moderate speed.
- Encounters with beautiful landscapes, including Spanish moss on trees and scenic river views.
Supply Stops
- Initial plan to stop at Walgreens, followed by a successful stop at Publix for supplies.
- Consumption of sugary drinks and snacks for energy, reflecting on dietary preferences and changes over time.
Riding Experience
- Descriptions of varying road conditions, including the impact of headwinds and the strategy for energy management.
- Observations on traffic behavior, especially around large trucks, and personal safety measures like visibility and lane positioning.
Accommodation and Rest
- Arrival at an Airbnb in St. Cloud, highlighting the rural setting with chickens, roosters, and ducks, and the installation of a new bike path enhancing access to the property
- Reflections on the physical and mental challenges of the day, including the effectiveness of sugar and caffeine against headwinds, and the benefits of music for motivation.
Planning and Anticipation
- Planning for the next day’s route with considerations for traffic and personal endurance.
- Strategic thinking about meal planning, gear management, and the anticipation of a shorter ride day.

The Airbnb I stayed at in St. Cloud

Statistics

Miles biked 59.1
Sugary drink references 1
Farm animals observed 200?
Missed turns 3
Tears for Fears references 1
Flats 0

Trip Overview

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!

February 22, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 354: Space Coast Loop – Part 2

Day 2 of the Space Coast Loop, starts with another early morning, and nearly twice the mileage of the previous day. Riding on the Spring to Spring and East Central Regional Rail Trails promised to be great, along all the Spanish moss and unique wildlife central Florida has to offer. But ah those pesky headwinds coming off the coast I’m trying to reach… will my less-than-robust pre-ride conditioning do me in?

The Pedalshift Project 354: Space Coast Loop - Part 2

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Space Coast Loop – Part 2

Morning start and campsite experience details
Weather conditions and gear choices
Appreciation for campsite amenities and value
Plans for the day’s ride, including terrain and stops
Descriptions of the Spring to Spring Trail and East Central Regional Rail Trail
Interactions with other cyclists and wildlife observations
Food and hydration strategy throughout the day
Physical and mental state reflections
Overall journey reflections, including trail beauty and challenges
Anticipation for future rides and route planning

Evening reflections and campsite experiences

Statistics

Miles biked 51.4
Sugary sodas 2
Shoutouts to Aussies 1 (Matty Freedom!)
Spanish Moss mentions 3
NASA nerdery count 5 or 6?
Sum total of Manatees and Hammocks at Manatee Hammock campground 0
Frustration with wind noise on this tour journal infinity
Flats 0

Trip Overview

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!

February 15, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 353: Space Coast Loop – Part 1

Packing up and getting myself and my trusty Brompton to central Florida is a well-practiced mid-winter routine for me at this point. But this year, we’re mixing it up with a new route and (finally?) some actual camping in the sunshine state. But would the unfamiliar route and lack of decent conditioning through the holidays put the brakes on this adventure before we even start?

The Pedalshift Project 353: Space Coast Loop - Part 1

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Space Coast Loop – Part 1

Preparation and Packing
Travel to Florida
Arrival and Bike Setup in Winter Garden
Trail Riding Experience
Camping Preparations and Considerations
Mechanical Adjustments and Bike Modifications
Weather and Riding Conditions
Navigation and Trail Experiences
End-of-Day Reflections and Camping Experience

Statistics

Miles flown 862
Miles biked 35.4
Number of 44 stars given 1
Times my phone dropped off my MagSafe bike mount 4
Auto Clubs mentioned 2
Footlongs consumed 1
Flats 0

Trip Overview

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!

February 8, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview

The first tour of 2024 is a little bit of an old friend, but with brand new parts. Central Florida in early winter has treated me well, but things need to be shaken up. How about crossing a chunk of the state on a fantastic trail and mixing in some camping for the first time on one of these adventures? On this episode, we preview all of the excitement to come!

The Pedalshift Project 352: Space Coast Loop Preview

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Space Coast Loop Preview

Trip Overview

Announcement of returning to Florida for the Space Coast Loop

Brief mention of the Brompton setup and intention for a different kind of trip

Trip Details

The loop trip’s basic structure and logistics

Emphasis on Central Florida as the chosen location

Decision to include camping and the planning involved

Discussion about flight logistics and bicycle transportation, focusing on using a Brompton for ease of travel

Gear and Preparation

Explanation of the gear-hauling strategy using a backpack

Mention of potential weather challenges and preparations

Details on packing light and meal planning

Itinerary and Route Planning

Start of the trip from Orlando, moving towards Winter Garden, Florida

Exploration of the Florida Coast to Coast Trail

Details of each day’s ride, including camping locations and daily mileages

Inclusion of a roofed lodging stay and the reasons behind it

Plans for entering Disney World property and the anticipated challenges

Personal Insights and Anticipations

Reflection on the uniqueness of this trip compared to past adventures

Mention of new bicycling setup and excitement for the camping experience

Anticipation for the Florida Coast to Coast trail and potential challenges

Wrap-Up and Look Ahead

Concluding thoughts on the upcoming trip

Plans for future episodes covering the day-to-day experiences of the tour

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!

January 25, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 351: Building an eBike

The big project for 2024 is building the ultimate custom ebike. On this episode we go over the three key components to the build, from picking the perfect frame, the right mid-drive motor and a battery that gives range and power. What’s better than a project that blends tech with cycling?

The Pedalshift Project 351: Building an eBike

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 345: eBike Adventures with Biking Brian.

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Building an eBike

The Ebike Build Plan Overview

– Intentions and possibilities for the ebike build, including cost considerations and potential delays.

Inspiration and Goals for the Custom Ebike

– Aim for a custom battery build to cover more ground in less time, inspired by Biking Brian’s rig.

Bicycle Selection Criteria

– Choosing a durable and compatible frame, with considerations for material (steel vs. aluminum) and geometry.

Mid Drive Motor Choice

– The importance of selecting an efficient mid-drive motor, focusing on power output and brand reliability.

Custom Battery Build Exploration

– Options for a custom battery build, prioritizing safety and capacity, and the possibility of a prebuilt battery.

Roadmap and Next Steps for the Ebike Project

– The complex process and interdependencies among bicycle selection, motor choice, and battery build.

Listener Engagement and Feedback

– Encouraging listener experiences and advice on ebike builds.

Programming Note!

– Preview of future episodes, including bike tour previews and training for a first bike tour.

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!

January 18, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals

Just like last year, let’s set some goals for bike adventures in 2024! Studies show you are more likely to achieve your goals if they are specific and measurable, plus you write them down and share them with others. As a nudge to get you to do the same, I’m sharing my goals for bike adventures in 2024 here on the pod!

The Pedalshift Project 350: 2024 Bike Adventure Goals

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2024 Bike Adventure Goals

1. New Experiences in Bike Travel

Goal Plan at least three bike trips to destinations never visited before, including local hidden gems and longer journeys.

Measurable Aspect Track and document the number of new places visited with photos and a travel journal.

2. Exploring and Enjoying the Trips More

Incorporate Unique Activities or Experiences

Goal Add at least one unique activity or experience to each trip, like local cuisine tasting, community event participation, or historical site exploration.

Measurable Aspect Record and rate each unique experience on a scale of 1-10 for enjoyment.

Plan a Low-Mileage, Slow-Paced Tour

Goal Conduct a bike tour emphasizing slow travel and low daily mileage, focusing on scenery enjoyment and local culture engagement.

Measurable Aspect Implement a daily mileage limit (e.g., no more than 30 miles) to allow for exploration and rest.

Engage with Local Communities

Goal Interact with local communities during tours, including staying at local guesthouses and dining at family-owned restaurants.

Measurable Aspect Document interactions, including names of stays, dining places, and community events.

Document the Journey

Goal Capture the tour’s essence through photography, journaling, or video blogging, focusing on storytelling.

Measurable Aspect Create a travel log or digital album of key moments and stories.

3. Building a New Ebike with Long Range

Battery Capacity and Range

Goal Install a high-capacity battery system for a range of about 120 miles per charge, similar to Biking Brian’s setup.

Measurable Aspect Choose a battery with around 1500Wh capacity.

Motor Efficiency and Power

Goal Select a mid-drive motor that balances efficiency and power, suitable for various terrains and distances.

Measurable Aspect Opt for a mid-drive motor with 250-750 watts power output.

Overall Design for Comfort and Durability

Goal Build a bike focusing on comfort and durability, including a comfortable seat, ergonomic handlebars, and a robust frame.

Measurable Aspects

Frame and Suspension Select a frame that balances weight and strength, with front suspension for terrain comfort.

Seating and Handlebars Ensure high-quality, ergonomic seating and adjustable handlebars.

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!

January 11, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 349: Filmmaker Interview – We Are All in This Together

We kick off 2024 with an interview with filmmaker Daniel Troia on his award-winning documentary, We Are All in This Together which tracks a cross-country bicycle journey with the hope of gaining a better understanding of the human connection, relying on the kindness of strangers.

The Pedalshift Project 349: Filmmaker Interview - We Are All in This Together

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Filmmaker Interview – We Are All in This Together

– Introduction

– The Documentary

– Social Issues and Cycling

– Route and Experiences

– Previous Cycling Adventures

– Dumpster Diving and Food Waste

– Encounters and Human Connection

– Bicycling Mechanics and Gear

– Reflections on Social Division in the U.S.

– Closing and Additional Information

Links and Resources

https://www.weareallinthistogethermovie.com

Daniel’s YouTube: The Travelin Dude

Daniel’s Instagram: @the_travelin_dude

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!

December 28, 2023

The Pedalshift Project 348: An AI Boost for Your Bike Adventures

For the final epsiode of 2023, we take a peek at the future at the intersection of technology and cycling. It seems like artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing everything else, so how could it help with bicycle travel? On this edition we dream up AI-assisted route planning, gear selection and maintenance tips from our robot overlords (kidding!) to help keep your ride smooth.

The Pedalshift Project 348: An AI Boost for Your Bike Adventures

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An AI Boost for Your Bike Adventures

AI in Route Planning for Bike Touring

- How AI can optimize route planning based on terrain, weather, and personal preferences.
- Example: AI tools that analyze hills, weather patterns, and scenic routes.
- AI-generated personalized routes that cater to different cycling levels and interests.
- Case Study: A beginner cyclist planning a scenic and easy route vs. an experienced cyclist seeking challenging terrains.
Benefits of real-time updates and rerouting options based on current conditions.

AI-Driven Gear Recommendations

- How AI can suggest the best gear based on trip length, terrain, and weather.
- Example: AI suggesting lightweight tents for dry conditions or more durable gear for rough terrains.
- Discussion on AI’s role in helping cyclists choose the right bike for their journey.
- Example: Recommending a gravel bike for mixed-terrain tours.
How AI can assist in packing lists and weight distribution for optimized bike handling.

Bicycle Maintenance and AI Assistance

- AI’s role in predictive maintenance and bike health monitoring.
- Example: AI algorithms predicting when parts like brake pads or chains need replacement.
- Interactive guides for on-the-road repairs and maintenance using AI.
- Example: AI providing step-by-step repair instructions through an app.
The future of bike maintenance: integrating AI for enhanced safety and performance.

SAM as a tool for future episodes of the show

Introduce SAM (Smarter Alternative to Me) as the new ocassional AI cohost.
SAM’s expertise in bicycle builds, ebike battery technology, and mechanics.
How SAM will assist in future episodes, focusing on ebike power optimization and cycling technology discussions.

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!