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. 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, time TBA, but mark it down now. It will be podcasted the following week but always down for some l...
May 09, 2024•29 min•Ep. 362
Are you brand new to bicycle touring or like seeing things through the eyes of a first-timer? You’re in luck! On this episode, we revisit the 2018 Pedalshift bicycle touring beginners series, following James from NYC on his journey to his first bicycle tour. Originally podcast February 8, 2018.
May 02, 2024•18 min
Ever wonder why it's harder to cycle up a hill? Or why it's easier to ride on smooth asphalt with skinny tires instead of wide tires on gravel? Turns out, there's an answer: SCIENCE! On this edition, we delve into the (very) basics on what works against us while riding, and how we convert food into motion! The Science of Cycling Programming notes Best of next week Spring tour preview the week after, followed by the tour journal! The march to the ten year anniversary of the show commences… Live s...
Apr 25, 2024•32 min•Ep. 361
When we talk about mindfulness in bicycle travel, we mean paying close attention to our experiences and feelings while we are biking. Sometimes this is a natural thing to do and doesn't require any added thought, and sometimes it's helpful to be intentional about it because it can often enhance your travel. On this edition, we talk about how bicycling can be a mindfulness practice. Mindfulness and Bicycle Travel 1. Introduction to Mindfulness in Bicycle Travel Definition of mindfulness in the co...
Apr 18, 2024•29 min•Ep. 360
So much of our bike travel is out on the open road, or along some back country trail. But what about the cities? On this edition, we talk about how to make cities and suburban riding a fun and enjoyable part of your next urban bike tour! Urban Bike Touring Planning Your Urban Adventure - route planning in urban areas. - researching bike-friendly cities and regions. - know the area and any rules of paths Choosing the Right Bike and Gear - bike and gear choices for urban touring. - have a flexible...
Apr 11, 2024•36 min•Ep. 359
An interview with Jesse Herbert on his experiences biike touring Canada (and around the world), plus a ton of great ideas, hacks and tips on all things bicycle touring, from lightening your load to braving a chilly night in a hammock. Originally podcast October 11, 2018.
Apr 04, 2024•44 min
The big project for 2024 is building the ultimate custom e-bike. On this episode we update where I'm at with the project... have I narrowed things down or am I hopelessly lost in the paradox of choice? e-Bike Build Update Overview of the e-bike build vs. buy decision. Experiences and research done in Portland, Oregon, highlighting e-bike focused shops. Special mention of Nomad Cycles for custom bike builds. Discussion on the drawbacks of commercially available e-bikes, particularly around propri...
Mar 28, 2024•36 min•Ep. 358
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? 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 Cycli...
Mar 21, 2024•32 min•Ep. 357
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? 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...
Mar 14, 2024•54 min•Ep. 356
The Ohio to Erie Trail spans 326 miles diagonally across Ohio, linking up Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland and everything in between. On this episode, we chat about the trail and the experience biking across Ohio! Originally podcast March 14, 2019 .
Mar 07, 2024•34 min
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? 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 ...
Feb 29, 2024•49 min•Ep. 355
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? Space Coast Loop - Part 2 Morning start and campsite experience details Weather conditio...
Feb 22, 2024•42 min•Ep. 354
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? Space Coast Loop - Part 1 Preparation and Packing Travel to Florida Arrival and Bike Setup in Winter Garden Trail Ridin...
Feb 15, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 353
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! Space Coast Loop Preview Trip Overview Announcement of returning to Florida for the Space Coast Loop Brief mention of the Brompton setup ...
Feb 08, 2024•32 min•Ep. 352
So it’s your first bike tour and you have no idea where to begin… that’s where the Pedalshift Beginners Series comes in! On this edition, we cover training (especially when you’re off the bike) plus raising funds if your ride has a charitable component! Originally podcast April 12, 2018.
Feb 01, 2024•33 min
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? 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 cus...
Jan 25, 2024•38 min•Ep. 351
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! 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 journey...
Jan 18, 2024•26 min•Ep. 350
We kick off 2024 with an interview of 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. 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 ...
Jan 11, 2024•27 min•Ep. 349
You’ve got our bike, you know where you’re going… the next biggest thing is what to bring and how to pack it! On this edition of the pod, my top five strategies for packing for a bike tour. Originally podcast October 29, 2020 .
Jan 04, 2024•16 min
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. AI in Route Planning for Bike Touring How AI can optimize route planning based on terrain, weather, and personal ...
Dec 28, 2023•26 min•Ep. 348
Dude, this is the aftershow if you want more of the Holiday Spectacular conversation with Tim, Brock and Aaron.... listen to this second. - Shifty the Elf
Dec 21, 2023•12 min
The annual tradition continues! Did you know that during this special season of giving I often visit the old retired podcasters home to spread some holiday cheer? Why don't you come visit with me? You never know who we might run into! (If you like the conversation, there's an aftershow in your feed too!)
Dec 21, 2023•39 min•Ep. 347
On this episode of The Pedalshift Project, we explore slow travel and its relevance to your bicycle adventures. We also circle back to our previous discussion on eBikes, reflecting on some listener feedback and exploring the evolving role of eBikes on the future of bicycle travel. E-Biking Adventures Follow-Up A recap and appreciation for the previous episode's guest, Biking Brian. Discussion on the high listener engagement and feedback from the eBike episode. Future implications of e-bikes in b...
Dec 14, 2023•35 min•Ep. 346
On this edition, how to fast forward your bike adventures. It’s your ride… make it the best you can by bypassing parts you don’t want, catching up on a schedule or accommodating an extra day in a cool spot! Originally podcast March 23, 2017 .
Dec 07, 2023•15 min
On this episode of The Pedalshift Project, we welcome eBike expert Biking Brian to chat about his eBike touring and adventures. We discuss his background in bicycling and touring, his experiences with building eBikes and battery packs, and the future potential of eBike travel. eBike Adventures with Biking Brian Brian's eBike touring experience Brian's charger and battery pack Brian's background and early bicycling experience Building eBikes and battery packs The ease of installing eBike componen...
Nov 30, 2023•39 min•Ep. 345
As an aficionado of crossing states by bicycle, there's big ones on my list like NY, CA and OR... and then there's less impressive ones that still absolutely count. Welcome to the Delaware Double Cross! Delaware Double Cross 00:03 Intro 01:05 The Start of the Delaware Double Cross 02:01 Challenges of the Journey 02:49 Exploring the Eastern Shore 07:45 The Journey Continues: Crossing the State 15:56 Arrival at Delaware City 17:52 The Return Journey 25:16 Takeaways on the Adventure 27:04 Closing S...
Nov 23, 2023•30 min•Ep. 344
My fall 2023 adventure checks the box on one of my goals from the beginning of the year... I love crossing states by bike, and is it my fault that some of them are very, very skinny? Ok, fine I'll cross it TWICE to make it count! Previewing my next ride... the Delaware Double Cross! Delaware Double Cross Preview 2023 goal... cross a new state by bike DELAWARE! First plan... the one I didn't choose ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ All transit and bike MARC to the northern terminus in Perryville Bus to Elkton Ride acros...
Nov 16, 2023•33 min•Ep. 343
On this episode... why you might choose solo touring compared to group bicycle adventuring (or vice versa!) Solo Riding Freedom and independence Opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth during solo tours. Much easier to plan - no schedule coordinations with other riders Much easier to pace Solo Touring Challenges Safety concerns Loneliness Gear watching when inside stores Expenses not split Mitigating these challenges Listen to episode 340 on safety - planning and prep is key Listen ...
Nov 09, 2023•33 min•Ep. 342
On this edition, I open up my bike tour planning process and technique for a tour I’ve been mulling over for years. Originally podcast December 24, 2020 .
Nov 02, 2023•34 min
On this edition, we explore the mental challenges that bikepackers and touring cyclists face during their journeys, and some tips on how to handle them. The mental side of bikepacking and bike touring Intro Exploring the mental challenges that bikepackers and touring cyclists face during their journeys. I am not a mental health professional - these are tips from my experiences. Work with a therapist or other mental health professional for deeper connection on these issues! Mental stamina is poss...
Oct 26, 2023•33 min•Ep. 341
