Tag: C&O

January 16, 2025

The Pedalshift Project 390: eBike Range Test Preview

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 Pedalshift Project 390: eBike Range Test Preview

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eBike Range Test Preview

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!

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
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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 JUKEBOX BOY wherever cool music is available!

December 24, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 388: Pedalshift Holiday Spectacular 2024

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!

The Pedalshift Project 388: Pedalshift Holiday Spectacular 2024

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Pedalshift Holiday Spectacular 2024

Shifty Saves the Holidays

[Opening Scene: Sound of jingle bells and whooshing wind. The faint clinking of tools as Shifty the Elf tinkers with a magical sleigh in the background.]

Shifty (excited):

Duuuuuude! Tim told me this would be the year to shine, and what better way than saving the holidays with some pedal-powered magic? But uh… (pauses, worried) I kinda sorta misplaced the holiday cheer for Pedalshift’s big celebration. You know, the joy, the warmth, the… fuzzies. Without it, the show might as well be a flat tire in a snowstorm!

Luckily, I’ve got my trusty time-traveling sleigh. We’re off to relive the best Pedalshift moments of the year and find that missing cheer. Hop aboard, folks! Giddy up Rudolph… you slacker. Duuuude.

[Sound: A sleigh bell rings, followed by the roar of wind as the sleigh launches.]

[Scene 1: January, Pedalshift 349 – Daniel Troia’s interview.]

Shifty:

First stop, January! Ah, here we are—Daniel Troia, talking about his incredible documentary, We Are All in This Together. Imagine pedaling across the country and relying on nothing but kindness. Let’s tune in.

[Audio Clip: Daniel Troia shares an inspiring story of human connection.]

Shifty:

Did you hear that? Strangers becoming friends, the simple act of sharing—that’s holiday cheer if I’ve ever seen it! One ingredient found. Onward!

[Scene 2: February, Pedalshift 352-357 – Space Coast Loop Ride.]

Shifty:

Zipping ahead to February… Florida’s Space Coast! Look at that trail—Winter Garden to Disney World? That’s a dream ride. And Disney at the end? That’s pure magic.

[Audio Clip: Tim describes the journey, including sights along the Florida Coast to Coast Trail.]

Shifty:

Magic and adventure, folks. Two more ingredients for holiday cheer. Let’s keep rolling.

[Scene 3: May, Pedalshift 362-365 – Mindful C&O Canal Towpath Tour.]

Shifty:

May brings us to the C&O Canal Towpath. Tim’s riding slow and soaking in the scenery.

[Audio Clip: Tim reflects on the mindful pace of the journey.]

Shifty:

Mindfulness—slowing down to enjoy the moment. That’s what the holidays are all about. Add it to the list!

[Scene 4: June, Pedalshift 366 – 10-Year Anniversary Live Show.]

Shifty:

And here we are in June! Ten years of Pedalshift—what a milestone. Let’s peek into the celebration.

[Audio Clip: Audience laughter and Tim reflecting on a decade of podcasting.]

Shifty:

Laughter and community? Oh yeah, that’s the good stuff. Let’s rev this sleigh up for our next stop!

[Scene 5: July, Pedalshift 369-376 – Oregon Coast Tour with Mysterious James.]

Shifty:

The Oregon Coast with Mysterious James… a classic route with a remix twist. Let’s listen in.

[Audio Clip: Tim and James share banter about the trip and campsite memories.]

Shifty:

Friendship and nostalgia—check and check!

[Scene 6: Fall, Pedalshift 377-380 – E-Bike Build and WV Ride.]

Shifty:

Oh, here’s a fun one—building an e-bike and giving it a shakedown ride. DIY spirit meets adventure.

[Audio Clip: Tim narrates the first ride from the cabin to Hancock, MD.]

Shifty:

Creativity and perseverance—two more ingredients for our holiday recipe.

[Scene 7: October, Pedalshift 381-386 – North Dakota Adventure.]

Shifty:

October! North Dakota, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and… bison! Watch out, Tim!

[Audio Clip: Tim recounts a close encounter with a bison.]

Shifty (laughing):

Courage in the face of giant animals. That’s definitely some holiday magic right there.

[Scene 8: December, Pedalshift 387 – Live Show with Mysterious James.]

Shifty:

Finally, December! Tim and James answer listener questions live. What a way to wrap up the year.

[Audio Clip: A funny or heartwarming exchange from the live show.]

Shifty:

And there we have it—joy, laughter, connection, and all the good stuff that makes this season sparkle.

[Closing Scene: The sound of sleigh bells slows as Shifty returns home.]

Shifty:

Phew! What a ride. We found all the cheer we needed, and Pedalshift’s holiday spirit is back on track. Thanks for coming along, everyone. Happy holidays—and keep the rubber side down!

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 JUKEBOX BOY wherever cool music is available!

December 12, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 387: Ask Us Anything with Mysterious James

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!

The Pedalshift Project 387: Ask Us Anything with Mysterious James

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Housekeeping

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!

Ask Us Anything (LIVE!)

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).

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 JUKEBOX BOY wherever cool music is available!

June 27, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 368: C&O But Slow Takeaways

10 takeaways from a bike trip that was supposed to be slow but ended up being quite different than anticipated…

The Pedalshift Project 368: C&O But Slow Takeaways

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C&O But Slow Takeaways

10 takeaways from a bike trip that was supposed to be slow but ended up being quite different than anticipated:

1. Unplanned Higher Mileage Day: Despite the intention to have a slow and leisurely ride, the trip ended up requiring a high mileage day due to weather conditions and route changes

2. Changing Routes Due to Weather: The need to avoid bad weather led to a significant change in plans, including a decision to ride to the cabin instead of continuing on the planned trail

3. Encounter with Rolling Coal: The trip included an unpleasant experience of being coal-rolled by a truck, highlighting some of the challenges and hostility faced on the road

4. Gear Issues: Mechanical problems, such as issues with the bike’s gearing, added to the difficulty of the trip. This required on-the-go adjustments and highlighted the need for future maintenance

5. Utilizing Lights for Safety: Riding on exposed and less-traveled roads necessitated the use of fully charged lights to ensure safety, especially in low visibility conditions

6. Importance of Flexibility: The trip underscored the importance of being flexible and adapting to changing conditions, such as unexpected weather and route challenges

7. Strategic Zero Days: Taking a zero day (a rest day with no riding) proved to be a wise decision to avoid riding in bad weather and to recuperate from a strenuous day

8. Food and Hydration Management: Managing food and hydration was crucial, with stops to consume snacks and hydrate, especially given the physical exertion and varying conditions

9. Navigating New Routes: The journey involved navigating new and less familiar routes, which added an element of exploration but also required careful planning and adjustments

10. Reflection on Pace and Experience: Despite the trip being more challenging than expected, it offered valuable experiences and insights, leading to reflections on the importance of pace, enjoying the ride, preparation, flexibility, and resilience.

Best of next week and then we continue the celebration of 10 years of Pedalshift with Oregon Coast Remixed!

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!

June 20, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 367: C&O But Slow – Part 4

After a rejuvenating zero day to avoid the storms, I had one more day of road riding to catch my train. A familiar route, but not exactly one with mindfulness paid to bikes. Would I catch the train home?

The Pedalshift Project 367: C&O But Slow - Part 4

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Celebrate 10 Years of Pedalshift

Quick housekeeping if you missed last episode’s live show news… I’m off to Oregon for the 10th anniversary tour: Oregon Coast Remixed! We’ll pivot right into that as soon as we wrap up the C&O But Slow over the next few weeks, so stay tuned.
Also another shout to Lael Wilcox’s pod… her adventure around the world continues so make sure you follow along Lael Rides Around the World wherever you get this pod. Unless you get it off my website, in which case go google hers 😉

C&O But Slow – Part 4

Introduction

Good morning from the cabin. Discussion about the day’s ride and weather conditions.
Reflection on the decision to take a zero day due to bad weather.

Travel Plans and Preparations

Route description: predominantly downhill, then uphill, and flat sections.
Mention of carrying less load compared to previous rides.
Discussion on the necessity of taking the garbage to remote bins.
Weather conditions: cold, layering up, and safety measures with lighting on the bike.
Highlighting areas of exposure to highways and the importance of planning the ride to avoid rush.

On the Road Experiences

Initial thoughts after starting the ride and adjusting clothing layers.
Navigating roads and using Google Maps for routing, challenges with algorithm recommendations.
Encounter with the lowest elevation point near Back Creek and the difficulties with uphill rides.
Discussion about the upcoming route, including passing the county landfill and Ridge Road’s rollercoaster-like terrain.

Mid-Ride Reflections

Break to consume snacks and hydrate, reflection on time management for the ride.
Encounter with local traffic and the need for careful navigation on Ridge Road.
Challenges with the bike’s mid gears and potential need for maintenance.

Final Leg of the Journey

Detailed description of the last few miles and final crossing of Highway 9.
Observations on new constructions and reflections on the local area’s development.
Final thoughts on the ride, considering an e-bike for future trips for efficiency.
Nearing the train station, managing time well and cooling down after the ride.

Arrival at Martinsburg Train Station

Reflection on the ease of the final stretch and the efficiency of the route taken.
Thoughts on Martinsburg’s potential and current state, including commuter resources.
Preparing for the train ride back, discussion on local transit options and their effectiveness.

Return to DC

Arrival in DC, reflection on the overall trip and its unexpected developments.
Observations on local cycling culture and the changes seen in the area.
Mention of upcoming episodes and future plans for spring and summer.

Statistics

Miles biked 20.1
Trains taken 1
Bars eaten 2
Celebratory train beers 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!

June 13, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 366: Ten Years of Pedalshift [Live!]

June 8th, 2014 was the very first episode of The Pedalshift Project, and since then we’ve gone on quite the journey, mostly by bike. On this live episode, we got a bunch of listeners together to chat about highlights from the last ten years, the evolution of the show, and the reveal of the Tenth Anniversary Tour this summer. Recorded live June 8, 2024.

The Pedalshift Project 366: Ten Years of Pedalshift [Live!]

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Watch the show

Top Ten Moments

Honorable Mention Ten

Top ten

10. Social Distancing on the C&O (200-203) – April 2020)

9. Katy Trail (118-126 May-June 2018)

8. eBikes with Biking Brian (345 Nov 30, 2023)

7. First Brompton tour in CA (048 – April 28, 2016)

6. Shifty the Elf makes his first appearance on the very first Holiday Spectacular (Pedalshift 038 – December 24, 2015)

5. First Biking to Disney World (277 – March 24, 2022)

4. DC to Cincinnati (165-169 – May-June 2019)

3. The 2020 Bike Touring Draft feat. Sprocket (207 – June 11, 2020)

2. The Mysterious James three pack (190-192 – January 2020)

1. The Pacific Coast (005, 006, 010 – 2014)

Summer 10th Anniversary Tour Reveal

Oregon Coast Remix

Lincoln City to Crescent City
Classic touring bike (same one I used 10 years ago for the full coast)
All new campsites (mostly)
About a week of riding and no barfing on busses to Medford this time
Tour preview will be hitting the pod in a few weeks!

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!

June 6, 2024

The Pedalshift Project 365: C&O But Slow – Part 3

After leaving you all with a bit of a cliffhanger, the decision is made – my (formerly) slow and chill C&O ride now gets another 18 miles of riding to some sweet sweet roofed lodging at my cabin. But that means I cross into West Virginia where I encounter something I’ve never dealt with before. Explicit tag earned for this episode…

The Pedalshift Project 365: C&O But Slow - Part 3

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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.
ALSO, if you aren’t subscribed to and listening to the fantastic Lael Wilcox’s podcast, I can’t recommend it enough. She’s trying to break the world record for cycling the world and is audio journaling it every day. She’s recently completed her eastern US leg and by the time you hear this will be in Europe working her way east. It’s so good – laelwilcox.net for the details. She is a legend and this is elite level stuff!

C&O But Slow – Part 3

Introduction

– Riding to the cabin due to favorable weather conditions

Travel Plans and Preparations

– Description of the route and challenges ahead

– Discussion on safety measures and time management

– Strategy for avoiding bad weather and deciding to ride immediately

On the Road Experiences

– Reflections on the ride: pain, headwinds, and dealing with a truck that rolls coal

– Encounter with challenging road conditions and gearing issues

– Insights on energy management and navigating difficult climbs

Scenic and Safe Routes

– Decision-making on route choices to avoid hazards

– Progress update and estimated distance to the destination

Final Leg of the Journey

– Description of the last few miles and expected challenges

– Nearing the end: checking distance and anticipating weather

Arrival and Reflections

– Arrival at the cabin and initial feelings

– Immediate plans and reflections on the day’s ride

Zero Day

– Announcement of a zero day due to bad weather

– Observations on the weather conditions and impact on the trail

Closing Thoughts

– Strategy for the upcoming ride to the train station

– Gratitude for making the right decision and empathy for those still on the trail

Statistics

Miles biked 18
F bombs tossed 1
Zero days 1
Heavy rain storms dodged 2
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 23, 2024

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

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

Hey it’s the direct download link for The Pedalshift Project 363: 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!