So the ebike is a brick in the back of my RAV4, but it still works like a normal bike, so let’s keep going! But a sudden realization may provide the solution to unlock all the battery goodness, just as another stunning discovery makes me realize, this trip’s Plan B was all meant to be.
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Lake Ontario 2025 – Part 3
Hotel pack-up & quick diagnosis
Morning in Oswego, NY.
Realizes the motor cut-off is just a loose brake-lever magnet. Simple electrical/duct-tape fix brings the e-bike back to life.
Route planning & launch
Scraps the closed Cape Vincent ferry idea
decides to drive the east shore of Lake Ontario, scouting state parks and quieter wildlife areas instead of sticking to busy parks.
Lake-side stops
Quick visit to Black Pond Wildlife Management Area (too restricted for bikes).
Heads north to Westcott Beach State Park for a short beach walk, photos, and a quick battery test run.
Drive to Canada
Long detour to the Thousand Islands bridge (the only open crossing) because the south-end Wolf Island ferry is closed.
Smooth Canadian customs stop; grabs ice cream and activates a Canadian eSIM for data.
Kingston → Wolf Island ferry
Misses the boat by two cars; 80-minute wait becomes a snack-and-people-watch session.
Free ferry ride over; hotel is literally a block from the dock.
Marysville check-in
Rustic ground-floor room, lake view, no A/C needed. Drops bags, scopes dinner options (hotel café).
Evening e-bike shake-down
14-mile out-and-back along Route 95 to the shuttered U.S. ferry dock on the south tip.
Cruises at ~20 mph, marvels at wind turbines, farmland scenery, and micro-climates.
Confirms minimal battery draw and re-affirms “twice the speed, half the effort” mantra.
Wrap-up reflections
Happy the brake glitch happened early—it forced a car assist and avoided being stranded.
Wolf Island deemed a stellar, low-traffic cycling spot; sets intentions for next day’s ride and keeps an eye on looming Toronto weather.
Statistics
Miles biked 15
Closed ferry terminals visited 2
Open ferry terminals visited 2
Missed ferries 1
Denomination of Canadian currency that may or may not smell like maple syrup unless the bartender was trolling me 50
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.
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!
Episode 404? Isn’t 404 a website error? Well part 2 of the Lake Ontario adventure corrects for the very serious 404 we had with the ebike. Still a mystery, but we’re recovering and adventuring by bike in amazing towns like Sodus Point and Oswego, exploring apple orchard memories and historic nuclear power plants in between.
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Lake Ontario 2025 – Part 2
Abandoning the E-Bike Dream (For Now)
The electric bike project is benched due to reliability issues
Reflections on bike trust, touring logistics, and rethinking the approach
New trip plan: use the RAV4 Prime to support bike day rides
Pre-Booked Lodging Dilemma
All lodging was pre-booked and non-refundable
How that shifted priorities to maximize the trip by driving to each spot
The “acoustic” bike becomes the tour hero
Day One Route & Destination
Base: North of Webster, NY
Original plan scrapped; new mission: mini bike adventures in each locale
Exploring route options en route to Oswego, NY
Riding Past a Nuclear Legacy
Passing the Ginna Nuclear Power Plant on Lake Road
A personal memory and historical reflection on the 1982 radioactive steam release
Commentary on U.S. nuclear energy anxiety vs. European acceptance
Beechwood State Park to Sodus Point Ride
Decides to ride directly from Sodus Point due to better parking and facilities
Observations of the ride: comfortable unloaded, with scenic lake views
Reflections on Sodus Point, tiki bars, and surprisingly modern homes
A Sentimental Apple Orchard Memory
Flashback to camping with dad in a lakeside orchard
Emotional moment recalling powdered milk, childhood camping trips, and family history
Reflection on development replacing orchards with McMansions
Lunch, Tiki Bars, and Town Vibes
Tiki bar surprise: Jack’s Good Time Tavern!
Bike parking logistics and electric vehicle charging frustrations
Exploring local businesses
Bonus Ride to Sodus Point Beach Park
Beautiful weather, sandy beach, and kite-filled skies
Soaking in the views with the acoustic bike and good mic in tow
Ferry Fiasco Averted
Critical discovery: the expected ferry from Oswego isn’t operating
Realization: the whole trip could’ve collapsed if not for the car-based pivot
Learning: Always confirm ferry schedules
Oswego River + Downtown Bike Loop
Late-day ride along Oswego’s waterfront and Cahill Pier
Thoughts on Oswego’s economic history, SUNY Oswego, and bike-friendly waterfront
Scenic photo ops with a sailboat and lighthouse
Infrastructure Observations
Comments on visible power plants, nuclear and traditional
Reflections on energy production, environment, and how the infrastructure shapes the town
Memory-Making in Motion
How a disappointing start turned into a meaningful, flexible, and scenic experience
New appreciation for blending car support with bike touring
Looking ahead: next stop, Canada – via car, not ferry
Statistics
Miles biked 10
Nuclear power plants 2
Tiki bars in Sodus Point 2
Kite flying festivals attended 1
Misidentified rivers 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.
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!
Folks, if you’ve followed this pod for any length of time you know my bike adventures usually have a component that goes sideways. But has it ever happened before a single pedal stroke? Can the Lake Ontario adventure survive something like that?
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Lake Ontario 2025 – Part 1
Packing anxiety: two batteries, 90+ mile days, and a lot of unknowns
My ride strategy: charging on the go and treating watts like water
Leaving from my parents’ home—why this ride had emotional weight
First day jitters: range, elevation, and pannier paranoia
The moment everything stopped working: my e-bike breakdown in real time
How I pivoted the tour and found a way to ride anyway
Preview of what’s next: Plan B
Statistics
Miles Biked 0
Borked ebikes 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.
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!
After years of circling this ride (pun intended) it’s time to do a lap of the lake that I’ve lived near for a big chunk of my early life. Would it have been easier to pick a smaller lake? Sure. But Lake Ontario truly is a Great Lake in the sense it is surrounded by diverse and interesting places we’ll discover together.
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Lake Ontario 2025 Preview
The basics
About 540 miles
Two countries, two border crossings
Ferries galore
All roofed lodging
Rural stops and big cities
Driving ebike to WNY that is the beginning and end of the loop
The weather
Warm days and cool nights
Mixed bag for rain and dry
The gear
eBike – biggest ride yet!
Brooks saddle pulled from Brompton for more comfort
Rewrapped my bar end extenders to improve comfort
Batteries and chargers = biggest weight
Riding very light otherwise… 2 days of riding clothes I’ll wash each night plus a set of “civilian” clothes and rain gear
Bringing more tools in to handle bigger ticket issues
Tightening down everything in advance
The highlights
Memorial trip for my dad
Checking off some boxes – new to me, international, cool places
Lakeside lodging in a few places
Multiple ferries, including intl crossing
Toronto island stay – true Lake Ontario vibes with killer views of TO
Niagara Falls (probably!)
Weird Tim tourism: Love Canal! Be ready for history talk of American pollution!
A different route to the Erie Canal towpath
The challenges
Distance – despite the ebike, we’re looking at some 90 mile days and that could be rough?
Time in saddle – haven’t had good long days in the saddle since February
ebike – can it handle this? Sure? Maybe?
rural spots tough for a bailout
unfamiliar places in Ontario until Toronto and even then… new to me by bike
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.
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!
What happens when you’ve only got one day in Los Angeles, a conference that demands your physical presence, and a red-eye flight back home? You grab a Metrobike and explore, of course! On this edition, it’s a whirlwind bike share adventure from the hilly streets of Westwood to the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk and a race for that flight home.
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Los Angeles Metrobike Adventure
Intro:
•Location: Westwood, California
•Reason: Quick trip for an AI conference
•Game plan: Metrobike adventure from UCLA to Venice Beach and eventually towards LAX
The Plan:
•$5 Metrobike day pass – unlimited rides, 30-minute increments
•The challenge: avoid overage charges by dock hopping
•Route: UCLA → Santa Monica → Venice Beach → Marina Del Rey → Playa Vista
The Adventure:
•First leg: Downhill from UCLA, navigating LA traffic with Google Maps guidance
•Observations:
•Westwood’s hilly terrain
•Santa Monica’s tight bike dock situation
•Smooth greenways mixed with sketchy alley shortcuts
•A visit to the Bad News Bears park and some nostalgic nods
•Quick Trader Joe’s stop for hydration
Beach Time:
•Arrival in Venice Beach—Paddle Tennis, Muscle Beach, and all the usual suspects
•The surprising absence of a convenient bike dock near LAX
•Decision point: Walk or hop on the #3 bus?
•Marina Del Rey and the bougie vibes… plus the quest for fish tacos
The Wrap-Up:
•Arrival back at the Hyatt Regency by LAX
•Final thoughts: A grand adventure squeezed into a single LA day
•Reflections on the joy of exploring with a time crunch and a bike share pass
Statistics
Miles Traveled:15
Metrobike Docks: 5
Elevation Change:400 feet
Cost of the Entire Ride: $5
Flats: Zero
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.
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!
Four hundred episodes into this project, we gathered together on April 11, 2025 for a live show to celebrate the occasion. On this edition I revealed a new tour, announced a short spring break (with episodes, never fear!), and did some Ask Me Anythings!
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Pedalshift 400 Live
Hey check out the video if that’s your bag…
Introduction
•Tim kicks off Episode 400 live with listeners in the chat
•Reflects on 10+ years of podcasting, over 1.3 million downloads
•Expresses gratitude to listeners and the broader bike travel community
Shout-Outs & Tributes
•Listener shout-outs:
•Forrest from Whitehorse on the GAP Trail
•Byron and the Sprocket listener crossover poll (results were a 50/50 split)
•Tribute to The Sprocket Podcast:
•Final episode recently released
•Strong influence on Pedalshift’s creation
•Encourages new listeners to explore the Sprocket back catalog
•Shared values and crossover episodes remembered fondly
Tour Reveal: Circumnavigating Lake Ontario
•Dedicated to Tim’s late father; the lake was important to him
•Starting in Western New York, likely near Tim’s mother’s home
•Full loop around Lake Ontario
•Using the e-bike with a second battery for extended range
•No camping: entirely hotel or Airbnb lodging
•Expected duration: under a week
•Part of 2025 goals: new route, international travel, expanded e-bike touring
Pedalshift Spring Break
•First planned break in podcast history (show remains weekly)
•Begins April 24, 2025
•Through May, rebroadcasting selected past mini-tours:
•Game of Chance Tour
•Cleanup Tour
•Fill in the Blanks Tour
•New content returns in June with:
•Los Angeles Metro Bike Adventure (Episode 401)
•Lake Ontario Tour coverage begins with Episode 402
Ask Me Anything (Live Chat Q&A)
Tour Planning and Equipment
•Uses RideWithGPS, Google Maps, and Street View for route planning
•Recommends overlays like RideWithGPS heatmaps for checking route popularity
•Apple Notes is the go-to tool for organizing transit and fast-forward trips
•Safari and Brompton are the most used bikes for local/urban riding
•Gravel/dirt touring is appealing, especially with proper gear; has done C&O and Erie Canal
•Tour terrain preference: tie between forested and coastal routes
C&O Canal Guidance
•Cumberland to DC is a favorable direction due to logistics and parking
•Recommends Harper’s Ferry to Shepherdstown segment for beginners
Tour Ideas and Alternatives
•Florida ride likely to be retired after repeated versions
•Considering Arizona desert rides, Florida Keys, or San Diego to Phoenix
•Possibility of international touring (Europe later in 2025, Australia someday)
Fun Pop Culture AMA
•Favorite Prince songs to bike to:
•Let’s Go Crazy
•Seven (all-time favorite)
•Raspberry Beret, Purple Rain, 1999 also mentioned
•Brief discussion of cycling music and personal playlist choices
Future Travel Hints
•Canada’s Lake Ontario loop is Tim’s first true international bike tour
•Possibility of a short European ride in late summer 2025
•Dreaming of riding in Australia during shoulder seasons
Closing Remarks
•Gratitude to listeners and live show participants
•Encouragement to get out and ride, share stories, and connect with community
•Next live show planned for later in the year
•Spring break content begins April 24, new episodes resume in June
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.
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!
It’s planning season for spring and summer tours! But if you’re in the US or planning a bike adventure here, there’s some real question marks about our national park system. From budget cuts to layoffs and reinstatements to ever-increasing demand… is this the right year to consider a trip through Yellowstone or Shenandoah?
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
Pedalshift 400 Live
Hold the date… Pedalshift 400 Live will be Friday April 11th at 8pm ET – 5pm PT. Check out Pedlashift on YouTube or pedalshift.net/live for more. Ask Me Anything for sure, the rest is a surprise maybe to me as well?
What’s Happening with US National Parks in 2025?
•Brief overview of the budget situation: potential closures, service reductions, delayed seasonal openings
February firing of a category of federal employees
Buyout offer to some employees
Just recently a court order led to reinstatement of them
Still a huge gap in the staffing needed for the increasing demand
•Types of services at risk: ranger programs, campground availability, road maintenance, shuttle systems, water access
•Examples of parks most likely to be affected – Yosemite, Yellowstone and most of the majors that are on bike routes.
Impacts on Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking
•Common bike routes through or around National Parks (e.g., Skyline Drive, Natchez Trace, Blue Ridge Parkway, Yellowstone Loop, etc.)
•How closures or reduced services complicate trip planning
•Campgrounds unavailable or unmaintained
•Fewer refill spots for water/food
•Riskier road conditions due to lack of maintenance or ranger presence
•Potential increase in car traffic on fewer open roads
•Implications for car-free or low-impact travelers
Tips for Bike Travelers Navigating These Changes
•Research and plan ahead: how to track park-specific updates
•Use apps and websites that reflect real-time closures (NPS.gov, iOverlander, RideWithGPS updates, ACA forums)
•Be prepared for self-sufficiency: water filtration, food storage, backup shelters
•Consider alternative routes: National Forests, state parks, BLM lands
•Join or support advocacy efforts for bike access and funding for parks
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.
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!
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
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!
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!
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?
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
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
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!
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…
Have some bike touring or overnight stories to share? Send your pics, audio or a quick tweet – all welcome. Email the show at pedalshift@pedalshift.net or call the lightly-used Pedalshift voicemail line at (202) 930-1109
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 tossed1
Zero days 1
Heavy rain storms dodged 2
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!
![The Pedalshift Project 400: Celebrating 400 Episodes [Live]](https://pedalshift.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/psp400-celebrating-400-episodes-live.jpeg)
![The Pedalshift Project 400: Celebrating 400 Episodes [Live]](https://pedalshift.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pedalshift-400-celebrating-400-episodes-live.jpeg)
