Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do I do this?
Life is short and generally mundane. It's important to add risk and excitement (in a controlled way) to your life. It keeps your spirit alive. - Why do I go alone?
I think that people you encounter along the way tend to engage you more when you are alone since you look different (cycling outfit) and guess you may have a story to tell. - How does your wife feel about this?
She thinks I'm crazy but also respects what I doing and why. My wife's support is important to me. - Don't you get sore?
At the end of each day, I'm really tired. I generally need no medications (even aspirin), so my nightly therapy is a hot bath if I'm in a hotel. - What happens if something goes wrong with your bike?
I fix it or hitch a ride. - Have you customized your bike?
I have a special chainring that gives me really lower gears so I can climb mountains. I have brakes on the top of the handlebars in addition to the "drops" so I am more comfortable. I have a special hinged seat post now so the bumps in the road don't bother me. - How much does your bike weigh?
The bike alone weighs about 35 lbs. The panniers and other gear add another 35 to 40 pounds. Think about a 150 lb person riding on a 70 lb personal recreational vehicle. - What if it rains?
I get wet. - What if it real windy?
I don't get as far, and my legs end up more tired. - What stuff do you carry?
Clothes, bike tools, food, toiletries, tent, sleeping sack and pad. Only the minimum stuff I need. - Do people ever invite you to stay with them?
Never. It happens to other cyclists but never to me. Maybe I look dangerous or strange or I'm too old to be doing this type of thing. I don't understand it. I'm really a nice person.
Copyright 2002 - 2005
