387: Ask Us Anything with Mysterious James

The Pedalshift Project: Bicycle Travel Adventures

A repodcast of Pedalshift Live from December 6, 2024 featuring special guest Mysterious James and YOUR questions for a big round of Ask Us Anything. Huge shoutout to the folks that came and made this one of the best live shows yet!

1. Top 3 Must-Have Items for Bike Touring

• James: Once considered a cook set essential but now tours stoveless. Values minimal gear and adaptability.

• Tim: iPhone (multi-use tool), foldable backjack chair, and positive vibes for motivation.

2. Best Place for Car-Free Living with Transit and Nature Access

• James: San Francisco for its bikeability, walkability, and access to nature in all directions.

• Tim: Portland, Oregon, for its bike-friendly culture, infrastructure, and scenic options for bike tours.

3. Trail Recommendations

• Greenbrier River Trail (WV): Tim considers it for future e-bike touring despite challenging accessibility and trail conditions.

• Pine Creek Trail (PA): Known but less explored by Tim and James.

• Cowboy Trail (NE): On Tim’s radar, but accessibility challenges persist.

4. Approach to Bike Adventuring

• James: Minimal planning, go-with-the-flow mindset, and preference for off-road routes.

• Tim: Focuses on enjoying the experience rather than completing every mile, with flexibility to adapt plans as needed.

5. East Coast Greenway

• Highlighted as a potential cross-country ride option. Discussed challenges with camping and infrastructure but praised for its connectivity.

6. Tire Preferences

• James: Schwalbe Marathon and Mondial tires for durability and versatility.

• Tim: A long-time fan of Schwalbe tires for touring and e-bike use.

7. Mud Guards vs. No Mud Guards

• James: Initially used mud guards but removed them due to travel difficulties and now prefers to ride without them.

• Tim: Appreciates their value but acknowledges challenges with mud accumulation on trails like the C&O.

8. Motivation on Long Rides or in Bad Weather

• James: Allows trips to end naturally when motivation fades, embracing the experience regardless of completion.

• Tim: Stays motivated by focusing on the overall experience and prioritizing safety, especially in adverse weather.

9. Warm Showers Experience

• James: Prefers camping or hotels due to flexibility and introversion.

• Tim: Values the concept but hasn’t fully embraced it due to similar concerns.

10. Cross-Country U.S. Route Priorities

• James: Interested in rail trail-based routes for safety and scenery.

• Tim: Eastern Express and routes through national parks like the Lewis and Clark Trail.

11. Cycling Southeast Asia

• James: Enthralled by Cambodia’s culture and affordability but wary of heat, rain, and traffic.

• Tim: Intrigued but cautious about climate and road conditions.

12. Cycling Quebec

• Tim: Keen to explore Quebec’s Route Verte and its cultural richness, possibly linking it to U.S. rail trails for a larger tour.

13. Gap and C&O: Pittsburgh to DC vs. DC to Pittsburgh

• Tim: Initially preferred Cumberland-to-Pittsburgh for the downhill experience but now considers both routes equally, emphasizing convenience based on starting point.

14. Bikepacking Regions to Highlight in a U.S. Cross-Country Tour

• Must-see trails include the Great American Rail Trail, Katy Trail, and Northern Tier’s scenic sections.

Special Mentions: Regina Yan (East Coast Greenway), Adventure Cycling Association (route inspiration), and Schwalbe Tires (consistent performance).