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 context of bikingImportance of being present and enjoying each moment of the rideConcepts of self-awareness and non-judgmental observationBenefits of mindfulness for enhancing the enjoyment of bike trips 2. Mindful Preparation and Planning The role of careful planning and setting intentions for bike tripsChoosing routes and destinations mindfullyHow mindful planning enhances connection to the adventure 3. Experiencing Joy While Riding The practice of being present during bike ridesTechniques for staying mindful, like deep breathing and sensory attentionExamples of joyful moments experienced by other cyclists 4. Mindful Encounters with Nature and Culture Opportunities for connecting with nature and local communities during ridesImportance of openness and curiosity in these encounters 5. Overcoming Challenges with Mindfulness Facing physical and environmental challenges during bike tripsUsing mindfulness to manage difficult situations calmlyStories of cyclists who overcame obstacles through mindfulness 6. Featured Stories Story 1: The Hill and the HawkStory 2: Raindrops and RevelationsStory 3: The Sunset Cycle

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 setup - Gear recommendations - locks, lights, and bags Navigating Cities and Suburbs - Tips for navigating city streets safely and confidently. - Discuss bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and public transportation integration. - Strategies for dealing with traffic and busy intersections. Finding Accommodations - Roofed vs unroofed -hotels, hostels, rentals, camping. - Plan ahead vs. staying flexible Immerse Yourself - Highlight the unique cultural experiences that urban touring offers. - Suggestions for exploring local cuisine, art, and events. - Best experiences - NYC, Tampa, SF, LA, San Diego Challenges - theft concerns and bike security. - "bad parts of the city" may be real or may be reverse hype - comfort over all else

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.

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 proprietary battery systems.Attraction to the "Biking Brian" style of massive battery and universal adapters for custom builds.Considerations against "chonky" e-bike frames for a sleeker, non-e-bike appearance.The decision leaning towards a custom build for its expandability and customization.Thoughts on suspension and tire width for e-bike comfort and stability.Exploring the option of converting the host’s Safari touring bike into an e-bike. Financial and technical considerations of a DIY build.Potential barriers and required new skills and tools. The sentimental value of the Safari bike and the implications of converting it.The downsides of rim brakes on an e-bike and the consideration of disc brakes.Timing concerns for the build project overlapping with prime touring season.Upsides of undertaking the e-bike project: a rewarding challenge, expanding bike mechanic skills, and personalizing the bike.Dilemmas between the ease of buying a pre-made e-bike and the appeal of a custom build.Future steps: considering all options post upcoming spring tour with the Safari bike.Closing thoughts on the e-bike build or buy journey and its implications for the host’s cycling future.Mention of Biking Brian’s build video and load management insights.Security considerations for e-bikes, particularly battery theft.Final reflections on the episode’s discussion and the ongoing decision process.

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 itResist the temptation to leave tools at home, even for urban toursBest sun management for me - cover up arms and legs, sunscreen face and neckCycling gloves do make a differenceThe rumors are true: upright riding is more comfortableThe backpack trick is back, baby!Never take US192 to cross I4 - it’s not safeCycling into Disney World is fun, and I think I’ll keep doing itCentral 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

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 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

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.

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

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 detailsWeather conditions and gear choicesAppreciation for campsite amenities and valuePlans for the day's ride, including terrain and stopsDescriptions of the Spring to Spring Trail and East Central Regional Rail TrailInteractions with other cyclists and wildlife observationsFood and hydration strategy throughout the dayPhysical and mental state reflectionsOverall journey reflections, including trail beauty and challengesAnticipation for future rides and route planning Evening reflections and campsite experiences Statistics Miles biked 51.4Sugary sodas 2Shoutouts to Aussies 1 (Matty Freedom!)Spanish Moss mentions 3NASA nerdery count 5 or 6?Sum total of Manatees and Hammocks at Manatee Hammock campground 0Frustration with wind noise on this tour journal infinityFlats 0 Trip Overview

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 PackingTravel to FloridaArrival and Bike Setup in Winter GardenTrail Riding ExperienceCamping Preparations and ConsiderationsMechanical Adjustments and Bike ModificationsWeather and Riding ConditionsNavigation and Trail ExperiencesEnd-of-Day Reflections and Camping Experience Statistics Miles flown 862Miles biked 35.4Number of 44 stars given 1Times my phone dropped off my MagSafe bike mount 4Auto Clubs mentioned 2Footlongs consumed 1Flats 0 Trip Overview

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 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

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.

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 custom battery build to cover more ground in less time, inspired by Biking Brian’s rig. Bicycle Selection Criteria    - Choosing a durable and compatible frame, with considerations for material (steel vs. aluminum) and geometry. Mid Drive Motor Choice    - The importance of selecting an efficient mid-drive motor, focusing on power output and brand reliability. Custom Battery Build Exploration    - Options for a custom battery build, prioritizing safety and capacity, and the possibility of a prebuilt battery. Roadmap and Next Steps for the Ebike Project    - The complex process and interdependencies among bicycle selection, motor choice, and battery build. Listener Engagement and Feedback    - Encouraging listener experiences and advice on ebike builds. Programming Note!    - Preview of future episodes, including bike tour previews and training for a first bike tour.

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 journeys. Measurable Aspect Track and document the number of new places visited with photos and a travel journal. 2. Exploring and Enjoying the Trips More Incorporate Unique Activities or Experiences Goal Add at least one unique activity or experience to each trip, like local cuisine tasting, community event participation, or historical site exploration. Measurable Aspect Record and rate each unique experience on a scale of 1-10 for enjoyment. Plan a Low-Mileage, Slow-Paced Tour Goal Conduct a bike tour emphasizing slow travel and low daily mileage, focusing on scenery enjoyment and local culture engagement. Measurable Aspect Implement a daily mileage limit (e.g., no more than 30 miles) to allow for exploration and rest. Engage with Local Communities Goal Interact with local communities during tours, including staying at local guesthouses and dining at family-owned restaurants. Measurable Aspect Document interactions, including names of stays, dining places, and community events. Document the Journey Goal Capture the tour's essence through photography, journaling, or video blogging, focusing on storytelling. Measurable Aspect Create a travel log or digital album of key moments and stories. 3. Building a New Ebike with Long Range Battery Capacity and Range Goal Install a high-capacity battery system for a range of about 120 miles per charge, similar to Biking Brian's setup. Measurable Aspect Choose a battery with around 1500Wh capacity. Motor Efficiency and Power Goal Select a mid-drive motor that balances efficiency and power, suitable for various terrains and distances. Measurable Aspect Opt for a mid-drive motor with 250-750 watts power output. Overall Design for Comfort and Durability Goal Build a bike focusing on comfort and durability, including a comfortable seat, ergonomic handlebars, and a robust frame. Measurable Aspects Frame and Suspension Select a frame that balances weight and strength, with front suspension for terrain comfort. Seating and Handlebars Ensure high-quality, ergonomic seating and adjustable handlebars.

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 Connection - Bicycling Mechanics and Gear - Reflections on Social Division in the U.S. - Closing and Additional Information Links and Resources https://www.weareallinthistogethermovie.com Daniel’s YouTube: The Travelin Dude Daniel’s Instagram: @the_travelin_dude

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.

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 preferences.Example: AI tools that analyze hills, weather patterns, and scenic routes.AI-generated personalized routes that cater to different cycling levels and interests.Case Study: A beginner cyclist planning a scenic and easy route vs. an experienced cyclist seeking challenging terrains. Benefits of real-time updates and rerouting options based on current conditions. AI-Driven Gear Recommendations How AI can suggest the best gear based on trip length, terrain, and weather.Example: AI suggesting lightweight tents for dry conditions or more durable gear for rough terrains.Discussion on AI's role in helping cyclists choose the right bike for their journey.Example: Recommending a gravel bike for mixed-terrain tours. How AI can assist in packing lists and weight distribution for optimized bike handling. Maintenance and AI Assistance AI's role in predictive maintenance and bike health monitoring.Example: AI algorithms predicting when parts like brake pads or chains need replacement.Interactive guides for on-the-road repairs and maintenance using AI.Example: AI providing step-by-step repair instructions through an app. The future of bike maintenance: integrating AI for enhanced safety and performance. SAM as a tool for future episodes of the show Introduce SAM (Smarter Alternative to Me) as the new ocassional AI cohost.SAM's expertise in bicycle builds, ebike battery technology, and mechanics.How SAM will assist in future episodes, focusing on ebike power optimization and cycling technology discussions.

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

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!)

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 bicycle travel.Addressing listener feedback on the capabilities of commercially available e-bikes for touring. Slow Travel by Bike Defining Slow TravelEmbracing the Journey - the importance, the rewards, the opportunitiesSlow Travel PlanningSlow Travel Benefits