Tag: florida

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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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!

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 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!

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!

June 29, 2023

The Pedalshift Project 328: Midyear Bike Touring Goals Check-In

In January I set up some fitness and bike touring goals. Six months later, have I completed any of them or am I really behind?

The Pedalshift Project 328: Midyear Bike Touring Goals Check-In

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Midyear Bike Touring Goals Check-In

Health/Fitness

Drop the weight

HELL YES… not quite at full goal, but mostly there.

Weigh in at least every other day all year (unless traveling) and set a back on the wagon number

YES! Near daily even.

Back on the wagon weight also set. I’m getting below that number now

Fitness center plan

None, zero. I’ve only been cycling, but can revisit this on the back half of 2023

Dry January Feb

YES – plus I’ve dramatically reduced drinking overall, if only for the calories.

The wonders of NA beer… is it as good? No. But is it a nice alternative? Yes.

Touring

5 multi day tours in 2023

3 and counting, 4th is imminent, 5th I have an idea. Possiblity of more than that? Maybe.

At least one 7+ day tour

Preview episode coming soon!

At least one fully new-to-me trail or route

NOT YET, looking at the 5th tour for this

Cross a new state by bike

NOT YET, and may have to figure out an easy one 😉

Whacky things

A heavily transit aided tour

Preview episode for the summer tour, coming soon 😉

A microcamper aided tour

NOT YET… might be a fall one? Or the state crosser?

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 28, 2023

The Pedalshift Project 321: Bicycle Adventuring on the East Coast Greenway

Despite living on the east coast, we spend a whole heck of a lot of attention on bicycle adventures on the west coast, right? Well, it’s time we changed that! On this episode, we chat with Regina Yan about the East Coast Greenway, her epic trip and how she and the East Coast Greenway Alliance is making this route a contender for all of our future cycling adventures!

The Pedalshift Project 321: Bicycle Adventuring on the East Coast Greenway

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Bicycle Adventuring on the East Coast Greenway

Hey, want to watch an actual video of us talking? Check it out!

Regina Yan is a UX designer and artist based in Washington DC. She grew up in Kansas and was a very “indoorsy” child, but fell in love with the outdoors after going to school in New Hampshire. When the pandemic hit, she got into cycling and immediately fell loved the way biking expanded her world. So much so, in the fall of 2021, kind of on a whim decided to try biking the East Coast Greenway from ME to Key West, FL completing the 3,000 miles trip in an intensely compact 29 days, experiencing all the ups and downs of a bike touring lifestyle.

Regina Yan

What made you to choose the ECG for your trip over another route?

You described it as response to a “quarter life crisis” – did the ride help that or prompt more introspection on where you’re at in life?

Your film did a great job of sharing the lows as much as the highs… sometimes when I look back on lows of my tours, I look back on them more as the “type 2 fun” we all talk about in the bike travel community. How do you assess your lows now – any one stand out?

With such an aggressive schedule, the mechanicals you had were extra disruptive but you still persevered! Did you have any takeaways from them for future tours?

One small part of your film that stuck with me was learning how to eat on tour, watching you pull what looked like frosted shredded wheat from a baggy… was that one of the solutions for you? What did you learn as you rode about all of this?

What bike did you ride and outside of the mechanicals did you like how it performed? Considering any changes to gearing or anything like that?

Do you have another long distance trip in mind?

You’re now a board trustee for the ECG Alliance, which lets me put on my nonprofit lawyer hat for once on this pod… what’s your experience been like serving in that role and what’s the organization aiming at in the short and long term to support the Greenway?

Music

You’ve been hearing about Jason Kent and his music for many fine episodes. Jason has a new track available NOW, and a new album dropping very soon AND Jason’s first solo album is now streaming on Spotify, including America, the Pedalshift theme. Go listen!

February 23, 2023

The Pedalshift Project 314: Florida 2023 – Takeaways

My annual winter ride in Florida is in the books, and I have a lot of thoughts… ten, in fact! But the last one is by far my biggest takeaway from a tour in a long time, so stick around for that one!

The Pedalshift Project 314: Florida 2023 - Takeaways

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Florida 2023 – Takeaways

1 – I really love this ride, but I want to ride the Cross Florida Trail next year

2 – I also really like integrating cycling with my Disney World visits, so I hope to do that in addition to that ride.

3 – Touring on Brompton means you have to clean parts regularly and avoid touching some parts altogether.

4 – I’m still not fully satisfied with my Brompton touring setup, but I’m also finding it’s pretty good as is.

5 – Florida is not a terrible bicycling state, except where it is.

6 – When faced with headwinds, lower your expectations and go with (well, against) the flow.

7 – Bring all the tools you need, yes even that $1 crescent wrench.

8 – I prefer clothing coverage over sunscreen when I can.

9 – You don’t need to carry thousands of calories of food with you when you’re within a few miles of civilization.

10 – I finally have a name for what happens to me during bike tours… it’s called edema and it’s the body holding onto water for days because of the stress the body undergoes during rides. Turns out, I’m probably not getting enough electrolytes, especially sodium.

Watch the show

Top Ten Moments

Summer 10th Anniversary Tour Reveal

Music

Space Coast Loop – Takeaways

Music

Space Coast Loop – Part 4

Statistics

Trip Overview

Music

Space Coast Loop – Part 3

Statistics

Trip Overview

Music

Space Coast Loop – Part 2

Statistics

Trip Overview

Music

Space Coast Loop – Part 1

Statistics

Trip Overview

Music

Space Coast Loop Preview

Trip Overview

Trip Details

Gear and Preparation

Itinerary and Route Planning

Wrap-Up and Look Ahead

Music

Midyear Bike Touring Goals Check-In

Music

Bicycle Adventuring on the East Coast Greenway

Music

Florida 2023 – Takeaways

Music

Bike tour consulting – 1 hour

Bike tour consulting – 4 pack

Pedalshift Society – $29 one-shot

Pedalshift Society – $59 one-shot

Pedalshift Society – Choose Your Own Adventure

Pedalshift Tour Journals Bundle (2014-2016)

Pedalshift Tour Journals Vol. 1: Pacific Coast

Pedalshift Tour Journals Vol. 2: DC to Pittsburgh / C&O & GAP

Pedalshift Tour Journals Vol. 3: New York State/Erie Canal