Sunday, December 25, 2022

Concerns, Worries and Touring Fears



Myrtle with new Burley trailer


Cycle touring in the US is very different from any other country. The US is vast with many distinct regions. With each region comes a new landscape, weather and noticeable cultural changes. Even though this is my home country, I find the US to be the most difficult for cycle touring. Cycle touring in the US requires special preparations that are different from touring in other countries.

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Map of TransAm bike route

Aside from travel costs getting to and from a tour destination, accommodation is always the biggest budget item for any tour. This is especially true in the US. In most other countries, finding a hotel room for less than $30 a night is easy. I found this to be true even in France, Spain, Portugal and Italy. I always carry camping gear but prefer to stay in hotels. My last big tour was in Colombia, South America. I found an affordable hotel room every night for 6 months never needing my camping gear. Unfortunately, this is not possible in the US. 


In the mountains of Colombia

In the US, you have to expect hotel rooms to cost $100-150 per night. I can't afford to spend this kind of money every night and will need to camp as much as possible. Luckily, the US has a camping culture and finding a place to set up a tent is much easier than in countries that have no camping culture. Even camping on a patch of gravel will most likely cost $30 per night. 


Forest camping

I have trike touring friends who never plan where they will camp or stop for the night. They ride until they don't want to ride anymore and then pitch their tent. I know people who refuse to pay for accommodation. This is a big reason for why they tour. Anyone that follows Kathryn Mossbrook Zimmerman, who is older than I am, knows how much she loves her tent. She never pays for accommodation. I think she tours just to stay in her tent every night. She also feels safe wherever she is. For me, this is true freedom.  I have never had the courage or faith to trust I will be safe where ever I want to stop pedaling. I have tried stealth/wild camping like Kathryn does and my imagination always gets the best of me and I end up not sleeping. I think knowing when you don't feel safe is an important consideration for any type of traveling especially for solo cycle touring.


Tent camping

Touring with just panniers

For me, being safe for the night is my number 1 priority. Every day that I tour, my objective is to find a safe place to spend the night. Getting a good night's sleep is very important. Touring is mentally/emotionally tough and being able to rest and recharge every night is vital. 


Adventure Cycling Bike Route 66

I'll be using the Adventure Cycling routes as much as possible. These routes have maps available that give you all the information you need for cycling every day. Distances, markets, laundry, bike shops, hotels, camping and elevation profile is just some of the information provided on these maps. An important safety concern is knowing how far you can comfortably ride in a day. Riding on the flats and downhill makes it easy to cover big distances. How fast you climb is what will determine your average speed.  It is very important to know how much climbing you are comfortable doing in a day. Maybe like me, you want to be at your destination by 3 pm every day. 3 pm is when people often start getting off work. They are impatient to be home. They also start drinking. I want to know I will be off the road by 3 pm. Through experience, I have learned my max climbing for the day is under 4,000 ft. Knowing this helps to plan my day's route with confidence.

Some of my other concerns for touring in the US is the heavy drug use, divisive highly charged political climate and actual weather.  

At times, I will be touring in terrible weather. From my 3 years of RV life, I know the winds are strong all through the western US every day. I think my electric assist will be a big help so my speed doesn't suffer as much as it would without the e-assist. I'm expecting that camping will sometimes be very difficult because of the weather. Undoubtedly, there will be days I set up my tent in the rain and winds and will also be packing up a wet tent to carry on. It's yucky. There will be days I'm going to hate touring. If the weather becomes dangerous, I'll find a hotel. With weather apps on my phone, I should be able to keep track of weather for safety.


The American flag is highly visible, recognizable and evokes strong emotions

Another worry is the drug epidemic. So many Americans are doing hard core drugs every day everywhere. I have never seen the level of drug use like we have in the US anywhere else in the world. Lots of people are driving intoxicated. I am planning to ride with 2 dash cams to record everything as I ride. I also ride with the Garmin Varia. This is a radar safety device that records every vehicle as it passes. This device records how fast vehicles travel as they approach and pass me on the road. It also has a bright red blinky and I keep it attached to the back of my helmet. We know that cyclist's witness accounts of altercations are not taken seriously or even believed. Video documentation and the Varia data is the only evidence I can present law enforcement of a crime or submit to insurance for claim compensation.  Hopefully, I'll never it.


Garmin Varia radar with blinky on my helmet

I have done 2 tours across the US. One in 2010 and another in 2015. Politics wasn't a concern or even a thought during these tours. This has changed. The highly charged political climate in the US is now a big worry. I really hate what politics has done to our country. Personally, I always vote but don't follow or listen to any political news. Unfortunately, I have had lots of experiences during my time RVing where other RVers simply see the Oregon plates on my truck and trailer which triggers them to angrily and loudly give me their opinion of the Governor of Oregon. Often, I haven't finished checking in or even got settled in a RV site. I have no desire to engage in any political discussion especially not with complete strangers. I have also had similar interactions at gas stations. People in other cars or RVs yell at me about Oregon being a communist state simply because I have Oregon plates on my truck and trailer.  This happened in many different states. If license plates can provoke so much heated emotion, will cycling provoke more? On past tours, this was never an issue or concern but, now, in an effort to dissipate some of the emotions, I will be flying a 2x3 foot American flag. Even though the American flag doesn't have anything reflective on it, the flag is super recognizable and provokes a strong emotional response. I believe anyone that would hurt a cyclist would never hurt the American flag. This may be incredibly naive. I will also post a sign on my trailer saying to smile for the video camera recording.


I'll be attaching a GoPro to my trailer to record as I ride

I also know that most people are good and nice and there are many, many wonderful people all across the US. I expect to meet lots of them. The beautiful landscape, scenery, challenge of riding while exploring different cultures continues to keep me motivated.


Beauty in the US makes the hardships worthwhile


PS - I'm amending this post to say I'm in no way overwhelmed with fear. People are always asking what my concerns are and I'm simply presenting them here. I am still expecting this tour to be just as great as all the others. One more concern I forgot to add is ... I am hoping I can keep up with the blog and Youtube videos in a timely manner. It's possible my plan is overly optimistic. When the weather is poor will I be able to use the laptop in my tent? Will there be a covered structure, even a bathroom, I can go for shelter to use my laptop safely from the weather? Stay tuned!









41 comments:

  1. Hi Sylvia. I understand your worries. Is Warm Showers an option for your tour? I’m sure many would love to host you.

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    1. Yes, thanks! I have used Warm Showers all over the world and, hopefully, hosts are still active in the US.

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  2. Everyone is pulling for you on this trip, but as someone who is always on high alert and nervous when riding on public streets, as apposed to dedicated bike trials, I worry that you will be mentally exhausted on your return trip and you will have some type of bad accident. I wish you could find a way for someone to bring your truck and trailer to you for your trip back. B.B. Cragon

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    1. Thanks! If I get tired I can always rent a car or truck. I'm not in a hurry and don't need to do big mileage days.

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    2. Costco Travel (if a member of Costco) is a great way to rent a car or van. When I travel a lot I often rent a Chrylser Van and put all the seats down and all of my cycling gear fits perfectly. I completely understand your concerns. I was following 2 women last summer who gave up on their ride because the roads were so difficult. They were MOSTLY trying to ride rail trails but still had to ride on the roads regularly. You are BRAVE. I prefer NOT to ride on roads with cars since I have been hit and also had one close call when someone ran a red light. I lost my confidence and don’t enjoy it (riding on the road). You will know what works for you and igpf you decide NOT to continue for some reason that is okay too. You have to enjoy it and FEEL SAFE.

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    3. Thanks for the Costco tip. I agree, safety is the #1 priority. I’ll be road riding but mostly on bike routes.

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  3. I wish we were on either of your routes. We would put you up !!! But it looks like you won't be riding through Iowa.

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    1. Thanks for thinking of me! Maybe another time I'll be rolling through Iowa.

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  4. Wondering why you would fear politics while on your tour? You have great courage, and you’re experienced, but fearing some crazy conservative is gonna harm you is kinda way out there IMO. Fear the millions of homeless drugged up on you know what, or the millions of illegals roaming our streets. Enjoy your journey but leave politics out of it.

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    1. Thanks for your comment! I don't wish anyone ill will and I would not call someone who would harm a cyclist a 'crazy conservative' or conservative at all. I think that is something all together different where people are using politics to justify poor behavior like I experienced at the RV parks. If you have followed me for any amount of time you know I am not political. In fact, I hate politics.

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    2. You are political you mention politics in your blog, “libtard” ….Been an RV’r n cyclist many yrs and have not been bothered by known political parties at camp check-in or camping neighbors. Would be much more enjoyable read if you leave politics out. Don’t make your journey something it isn’t.

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  5. Will the Varia pick up on the trailer behind you or will it be mounted to your trailer? Many rural mid west if you ride to a nearby farm house and ask, most will let you camp in a yard. Unless no trespassing signs are up.

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    1. Thanks, Loren, for the tip about camping at farm houses. That's a good question about the Varia. I'll definitely test this and, if need be, change the Varia to be mounted on the trailer. I've ordered the cargo rack too.

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  6. I agree with all of your concerns. None of your tours have scared me but this one does. Make sure that your camera's data is uploaded often. You are very well prepared and are very good with people. I hope this trip turns out amazing.

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    1. Thank you, my friend! It's definitely a strange, strange time we are in. I think this tour will be just as great as all the previous tours.

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  7. Sylvia, you have a world of experience to help you through this very ambitious adventure. Your health and safety is of primary concern. Be flexible and willing to modify your route, plans , and timeframe if things don’t go as expected. We all know that unexpected events occur daily in life. Obviously there is zero reasoning to be discussing politics with anybody that you are not well acquainted with…..especially if the topic makes you uncomfortable. I hardly think that some “conservative” is out there to harm you. I would be much more concerned about some of the many free range mentally ill folks we have roaming the country or some of the homeless folks who see you as a potentially easy target. I strongly advise trying to increase your Patreon enrollment in every manner to get you access to extra cash so you can stay in a safe, clean, modest hotel daily or some hostel, college campuses, etc. as a point of interest. many colleges allow dorm room usage for people doing similar journeys for a very modest fee. There is no shame in modifying your plans to take into account weather, equipment or cost issues. Use good judgment . However this trip plays out will be a good experience. Stay safe . Happy New Year.

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    1. Thanks for your words of advice! Yes, my experiences at the RV parks and having people yell about politics at gas stations really spooked me. I've never experienced anything like that before and it happened many times. There is a lot of mental illness and not only in the homeless communities. I'll be taking advantage of warm showers, friends and followers along the way. My budget can handle hotel costs every 3 days. I think being safe is the most important thing and I'll make changes if I need to. Happy New Year!

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  8. I think your concerns are valid and believe you’ve taken adequate precautions. I thoroughly enjoy your travels and wish you well on this tour.

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    1. Thanks! I'm not expecting bad experiences but I think it's important to address fears.

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  9. Hi,Sylvia- I am a fairly new e-assist recumbent trike rider, former Transamerica tourer on diamond frame bike and enjoyer of your very informative postings. Thank you for all the valuable personal experiences you share so well. So glad you are going to focus on recumbent eassist trikes.I biked across America on the Transamerica in 2005 with 3 friends- unsupported.. the times they are a-changing.
    We never felt threatened except by logging trucks passing in the mountains. I personally never locked my bike and luckily no one took it. You know the wonders of touring and are aware of the potential concerns- you will do fine. Fear not. Wish you were coming to Florida. We have a new 250 mile cross-Florida trail.I will try it out at the end of March. Anyway- looking forward to “traveling “ with you.

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    1. Many, many thanks for the positive comment!

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  10. All the best on your Journey! I will be very interested in your feelings on how well your MAPS do on putting you on roads that end up not being bike friendly? It seems I read a few journals and seen a few videos showing the mapped roads were a lot more dangerous due to no emergency lane or excessive semi truck and speeding auto traffic! May your ride be awesome in the end!

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  11. Thanks, yes, maps are not always great!

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  12. Question, how do you charge up everything when you are camping? Wish you were coming closer to my neck of the world (southern Ontario) but maybe another trip. How about a cross Canada jaunt? :)

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    1. I don't stealth or wild camp and will be staying at bonafide campgrounds. There is always electricity. In fact, electricity is easy to find. Who know, maybe Canada will be next - stay tuned!

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  13. Hi Sylvia, Your concerns are warranted, of course, but I will say Don and I were more concerned about you during your Columbia tour than this one coming up crossing the USA 🇺🇸
    Baffled by folks assuming an Oregon plate means support of a certain political party. Is it a vanity plate? If not, that’s just plain ignorance which seems to be prevalent in many no matter to what party to which they are affiliated.
    I feel certain once you start your journey, your concerns will be lifted. Trust your gut. Your upbeat attitude and friendliness has always served you well on previous tours; never underestimate its value and always let it shine. Manifest a positive outcome and lovely experience and it will happen.
    I recently experienced how overwhelmingly dedicated and eager to help our cycling community is. Should you require it, I’m certain help will be on its way.
    So bask in the knowledge that many hearts are pulling for you for a safe and fun journey; many eyes will be watching and living vicariously through your adventure.
    You are loved and respected by many, Sylvia, and I believe protected by earth and heavenly angels. xo

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    1. oh yes, I have been on the receiving end of tremendous love and support and expect this tour will be no different. People always want to know what my fears are so I put it out there. Notice that I'm not afraid of the actual riding or mechanicals. I'm expecting to have a fun tour just like all the ones in the past. Thanks for your comment and friendship!!

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  14. Great idea mounting the Varia high on your helmet. I ride a Cruzbike recumbent and find that multiple flashers can be very effective. I bought two for like $20 (battery operated) and ride with them and the Varia--the fact the lights are all on different blink patterns REALLY draws attention. I even had a driver slow down and thank me for the visibility! Cheap but very effective. Last year, I started gearing up to do what you do and hope to be on the road this summer. Have fun--as we get older, I observe people express more concern about different safety issues. I look at it differently-the risks have always been there and rather than ride with fear, I ride with the thrill that I am alive at this moment on the bike. Best wishes.

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    1. Thanks! I'm expecting to have a fun tour and am in no way overwhelmed with fear.

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  15. Majority of folks are in awe of what your doing and are glad to give you help if needed. As you said safety is of upmost importance. Don't be bashful about asking for assistance if you find your road is too dangerous to trike. I've been across the US twice on bicycle and hitched a ride when necessary. Looking forward to hearing about your trike tour!

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    1. Many thanks - I'm expecting to have a great and fun tour.

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  16. Looking forward to hearing about your wonderful adventure.

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    1. Thanks! One big worry I didn't express and may amend the post to reflect is keeping up with the blog and producing Youtube videos.

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  17. I had a bit of concern when you said you would post a sign that you’re carrying a camera. It could be a deterrent, or it could become an aggravation if a person who misbehaved thought you recorded them and would come after you for the evidence, or for something to sell. Not meaning to make you paranoid. Maybe just ‘Smile For The Camera’ or ‘Continuously uploading to the cloud’, just something that doesn’t come across as defensive/aggressive. As for the American flag, it just reminded me of Captain American in Easy Rider. If they don’t like you just by your look, they won’t like you carrying ‘their’ flag. I wouldn’t worry so much—you’re a woman that’s not a challenge to certain posturing males. Don’t know how those RV park women act, though …

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    1. Yes, thank you for your suggestions. This is exactly what I was thinking too. I want to keep everything light. Where ever I'm riding I smile, wave and say 'hello' to everyone. I think of it as my job while I'm riding and I take do that part of my job 'seriously', haha!

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  18. I think that it isn’t drunk driving or drugged driving that would be the main concern but rather distracted driving. Cell phones and all of the media devices in vehicles today is the perfect storm for distracted motorists. I I have toured 125,000 miles on our Harley and never encountered what you have experienced. We just sold our RV and have never seen or heard of anyone confronting another person from any state. Cameras are a good idea. Safety is your number 1 priority - food, clothing and shelter becomes a big deal when touring. Our longest trip was about 7,000 miles and of course we ate miles a lot faster on the motorcycle. Our touring of the U.S. was beyond words. The U.S. is a spectacular place.

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    1. Yes, I think you are right about distracted drivers. I also think the reason people felt more emboldened is I'm traveling solo. I wonder if they would have felt so confident talking like this to a man. I also agree that the US is spectacular. Thanks for following along.

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    2. Thrilled to hear about your upcoming tour! And that it’ll be passing through my locale. See you next Autumn!

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  19. Hi Sylvia. Thrilled that you’ll be passing through Santa Barbara next Autumn. Hope to see/ride with you then!

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  20. Hi Sylvia - I'm a HUGE fan and wish I could work up the courage to get out there solo on my trike - well, one day at a time. Question: when you stay at a hotel, what do you do with the trike? Can you get it into a room? Maybe a Motel 6 type place? Wishing you the absolute best tour and a wonderful new year!

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  21. I’m waiting for the details of where you plan on stopping in Oklahoma. I’ll keep you company with no politics.

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