two hundred forty six

                                                              

NEWEST TOY

 

My new Garmin GPS choice is different this time. I had the 60 series type which worked well but I got tired of pushing buttons. The Garmin 35 Touch with a touch screen is much easier to use on the fly. 

The mount I found is from a small company that 3D prints a stem mount for Garmin units. It is well made but it took months and was expensive it fits perfectly and is like metal. 

With the development of smart phones I have live access to food, camping, motels and everything else. I have North America City Navigator loaded on the GPS to use when I can't access the internet which happens more than I expected in the Pacific Northwest.

I can plot my way, know my ETA, see local streets and landmarks, track my elevation changes by percentage  and keep detailed records of milage, elevation and exact location. This can be stored on an internal chip then down loaded onto my PC. This will give me a detailed record of my entire journey.

It takes two AA rechargeable Lithium batteries that last a full day. I have a total of 8 that can be recharged in less than an hour.

I use my phone or Ipad mini to plot long trips, plus I have paper maps and a magnetic compass. I pick up a new state map at each state line. Relying completely on GPS routing can really be frustrating. Taking the long view saves an extra climb or a dangerous road.

One hard skill to develop is choosing the best bicycle route. Elevation changes, traffic issues and weather patterns are trial and error. Going around a mountain is usually farther but easier than climbing up and over. Do this enough and you will figure it out. The long view works best. 

two hundred forty five

25 YEARS AGO THIS WAS THE STATE OF THE ART

 This is my piece of old school technology, a CATEYE CC-AT-100. It came on the market in 1995 for $100. The altimeter that I found to be very accurate works with barometric pressure. Every mountain pass has a posted elevation that I assume is accurate, it was always within 5 feet. At sea level it would vary as much as 20 feet. 

The unit has a wire down to the front fork to a sensor that tracks a magnet on the wheel spoke. You set the unit by tire size which is amazingly accurate. I used the unit for daily miles and would reset it daily. It saves totals but I just use it for current speed, elevation and daily miles. 

I don't worry about it rain or shine it is bullet proof. This is actually a new one, I found it in a reduced bin in a bike shop. It was brand new but it was missing the bar mount and wiring harness, so it was only $5. My original unit had some wear but it worked perfectly.

I don't really need this my GPS will do everything and more but I like it because it looks vintage like me. 

After the nuclear EMP attack I think this will still work along with my Zippo lighter, stem wind pocket watch and pocket knife.

Most miles in a day - 155 miles - Montana into North Dakota, neutral wind and powered by peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

Top down hill speed - 50 MPH - Down a crowded California freeway grade. I got caught up in the draft from several tractor trailers. I only tried that once.

Highest altitude - 9850 FT - Crossing the Rockies in Colorado I was pushing the bike at at a blinding 3.5 MPH.

two hundred forty four

This is the surgeon that performed my recent full right knee replacement. My right femur was broken in a car accident 50 years ago. It was a compound break that left my right leg an inch shorter. This caused extra wear on my knee joint that had also been damaged. I have struggled with my knee for 30 years so it was time to finally do something about it.

My plan is to get back on the bike outdoors in the spring. Full recovery takes 52 weeks. So far it is still healing and my body is adjusting. I am stoked to get back to normal, well more than normal. I give a great deal of credit to the knowledge and skill of Doctor Finter. I told her I would put a sticker on my bike to advertise for her.

 Erin Finter, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon-Total Joint Replacement, Knee, Hip

Dr. Erin Finter was born at St. Charles Hospital and raised in Bend. She attended University of Washington for her undergraduate education and Georgetown University for medical school, graduating cum laude from both institutions. At Georgetown, she won the outstanding student award for orthopedic surgery. Dr. Finter completed her internship and orthopedic residency at University of Chicago and her fellowship in joint replacement surgery at the Mayo Clinic.

Dr. Finter specializes in joint replacement and reconstructive procedures of the hip and knee, including minimally invasive procedures. Dr. Erin Finter is now able to offer direct anterior total hip arthroplasty, which provides the potential for less pain, faster recovery and improved mobility in patients who qualify. She enjoys her work in joint replacement knowing she helps contribute to her patients quality of life as they return to a healthy state of abilities.

Dr. Finter also appreciates that she is allowed into peoples lives in an intimate and significant way and respectfully honors that trust. She is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society and the Phi Beta Kappa Society.

Dr. Finter is thrilled to be practicing in her hometown. In her free time, she enjoys golfing, skiing, hiking and spending time with her husband and family.

two hundred forty three

My Basic Kitchen (left rear pannier)

 My kitchen is very basic. I love coffee, let me rephrase that I NEED coffee, strong black drip coffee. My Jetboil stove is one of the originals, I bought it when Jetboil was a small startup company in New England. I've had it since 2003 or so and have used it everyday of every trip without a hitch. I have replaced some parts, they sell rebuild kits. If it ever gives out I will buy another one. The larger pot is also from Jetboil, it has the flanged bottom to heat effectively minimizing fuel use.

I consider my dry food as emergency food to use in a pinch. I try to always have a couple days of food from regular grocery stores on board. If I buy meat, eggs and cheese, it doesn't need refrigerated as long as I use it in a day or so. Beans, fruit, peanut butter, jelly and bread are my favorite.

I'm not a picky eater, fancy food is good but I have a no frills basic cave man approach to food. I do love meat, take the hair off, show it a fire and I'm good. Over a long trip, mentally, emotionally and physically food becomes fuel, eating is more a need not a pleasure. You start to think of it like a gas tank fuel gauge. You begin to feel the food you eat so listen to your body, what you crave is probably what your body needs. 

I do treat myself to a half gallon of vanilla ice-cream at the end of every 100 mile day. I'm not sure I have very many of those in me, maybe I'll drop it to 75 or 80. My daily milage depends on my mood, terrain, weather, headwinds and distractions. My focus on total miles has faded over the years, I think I'm learning to relax more, enjoy the journey and explore the distractions. If it is a day my body feels right and a long day happens I love sitting on the sidewalk in front of a mom and pop grocery store smiling while I consume the whole half gallon and feel the cold fill my belly this is a guilty pleasure. 

Hydration is much more vital than food. The west has some vast spaces. I have a water filter that I try not to need, it makes water safe but not good tasting. Water is usually available particularly in the west. In a pinch I have held up water bottles to passing cars, asked car campers or asked people I see by their houses for water and have never been turned down. A lake or stream works in a pinch so I feel a filter is worth carrying. I can carry 6 Liters of fresh water with my extra collapsible bottles. I also use a hydration drink tablet to avoid cramping, GU Hydration Lemon Lime Tabs are my favorite.

My usual day on the road; I start with coffee while I break camp. I try to ride 20-30 miles to find a good breakfast diner, you can usually get a big breakfast fairly cheap. Ride another 30+ mile stint and try to find a grocery store along the way. Sometimes there are fruit stands, most fruit travels well but you need to eat strawberries where you buy them because bicycles turn them to jam because of the vibration. 

Find a place to camp, set up camp, watch the sunset, cook dinner, clean up, go to bed then wake up and repeat.

Left rear pannier also holds my toiletries and a Big Angus ultra light camp stool. At my age and new knee I need this creature comfort.

two hundred forty two

 NEW ELECTRONIC UPDATE

1. Garmin 35 Touch GPS with City Navagater and North America Topo maps

2. Garmin Inreach Mini satellite text and SOS communicator

3. Iphone SE 128GB (new model) 

4. Ipad Mini 5 with 256GB

5. Bluetooth key board, mouse and pad

6. Bose bluetooth speaker

7. Apple bluetooth airbuds

8. 60 watt charger plug

9. Fast AA battery recharger 10 batteries

10. Misc plugs and cables

11. Goal Zero Sherpa battery pack

My satellite Inreach Mini will allow me to stay in touch wherever I am, at 69 the SOS feature is important while out of cellphone range. 

The IPad can be used to send e-mails, do blog posts and because it has 256GB of memory I have all of my games, movies, books and music downloaded. Audio books are a passion of mine so I have plenty on my phone. 

The 60 watt charging plug will charge the Goal Zero battery pack in around 2 hours so it can be fully charged plus 10 AA batteries in coffee shops. 

This all fits nicely in two bags so I can carry them while I am away from the bike. I should be good with reasonable use a full week away from power. 

two hundred forty one

AUGUST 5, 1990 

The reason I have had the oppertunity to have these bicycle adventures stems from one event in my life. August 5, 1990 I got my head out of my ass and by the grace of God got sober. Over the years an important part of my journey has been AA meetings along the way. I plan to do many more meetings where ever I go. AA people are like family where ever I go.

( XXX are Roman numerals for 30 years, it isn't a porn star award )

two hundred forty

COOLEST JOB EVER

In Hawaii I was a cab driver, I think it was the most fun job I have ever had. Even on slow days I couldn't bitch I was in Hawaii. Many many good memories of the fascinating people I had in my cab from all corners of the world.

 

two hundred thirty nine

FOUR YEARS IN PARADISE

 

Here is a more recent photo of me on my boat in Hawaii. 

My bicycle trip plans are not set yet, I am hoping to use my bullheadedness to make this happen. 

Who knows what the future holds. I make a plan and sometimes God laughs. 

I plan to embrace the future whatever it holds.

two hundred thirty eight

IT'S ALIVE!

 Well here I sit healing up after knee replacement surgery. I am in Bend Oregon by way of Captain Cook Hawaii and San Francisco. Walter, my trusted touring bicycle rig is sitting in the next room all shiny and renewed, every inch has been upgraded and tweaked. 

Walter survived two Hawaii cargo boat trips and 14,000 miles of touring. The frame and wheels are solid. The front chain derailed was broken but everything else was cosmetic. New GPS, battery recharger, satellite emergency hand held and an iPad mini to stay in touch. New cycling clothes, rain gear, sleeping bag and a few creature comforts. 

My tent was resealed and waterproofed and I added new daytime running lights. The weight is the same but I lack nothing for a long trip.

I’m now 69 years old and out of shape. My plan is to do a few more epic bicycle journeys. Getting in shape is my focus for the next year or so so stay tuned I’m not finished yet. 

two hundred thirty seven

Time to upgrade Walter with new bar tape, lights and a new GPS. 

Well it was time to leave the Big Island of Hawaii. The smoke and whatever poison is mixed in was too much. We moved to Central Oregon into the high desert. Walter is unpacked and getting ready to take some training runs. I'm now 67 but still 16 in my head. I'll keep you posted.

two hundred thirty six

THE ONE CONSTANT IN MY LIFE IS THIS BICYCLE

Walter is out of the storage unit and siting in the extra bedroom. Time has made a few plastic parts brittle but nothing I can't fix.

I just turned 65 and have a knee that is bone to bone and may need to be replaced. I have set a goal to ride from San Diego to Florida when I am 70. Walter is packed and ready.

I sold my carbon fiber road bike it was like a toy I never really liked the feel of it. Chrome-moly is what a real bike feels like. There is a special energy when I throw my leg over my bike Walter and head for the horizon.

Like it says on my blog header "You can always get more money but you can't get more time". I'm now in that make more money phase I never really thought I would live this long. I look at 65 as the second half I ain't dead yet! 

two hundred thirty five

R.I.P.

Well the pacific ocean finally got my Garmin GPS. I traveled across America twice with it mounted to my handlebars. My old one only lasted a short while it could not take the vibration. 

I bought this one for $500 a decade ago and loaded Blue water charts after I moved to Hawaii. It was great on the boat I could see the depth, hidden hazards, reefs and underwater anchor spots. 
On my bike adventures I have been in day long rain storms, dropped it from the bike at speed and finally learned how to use all of the features. 

Today we were about to take the boat out so I replaced the batteries and nothing happened. It made this little chirping sound when it turned on but not today. Ocean water had seeped in and corroded the inside. I was first angry because it had cost me so much, $500 for the GPS, $125 for the City Navigator software, $50 for Hawaii Terrain maps and $75 for the Blue Water Charts.

Then I thought of the years of use finding food and shelter, finding my way through every state, knowing where I was, when the sun would set, the altitude, where I was going and how long it would take to get there. I remembered more than once sitting on the ground tired cold hungry and wet in a dark heavy rain trying to find a room for the night with a phone and my trusted GPS. This happened a lot and my friend never let me down.

I now have a smart phone but I will miss my old Garmin GPS. I can't bring myself to throw it away quite yet.

two hundred thirty four

The next adventure Hawaii.....

two hundred thirty three

IT IS SIMPLE

Life gets simple on the road. There are a few bodily functions and hygiene issues plus staying in touch with the people who worry, but eat, sleep, and ride is about it. I know I can't live out there but it sure is a beautiful place to visit.

two hundred thirty two

ROUTE 88 APACHE TRAIL ROAD IN ARIZONA

Mid summer in 2003 I attempted to ride to the high desert of Showlow Arizona. I was using this as a shake down trip to learn what works and what doesn't work. 

The first day I started at three AM to get some miles in before it got too hot. I made big miles that first day but by the second day the temperature reached 115F by noon. The famous words of Dirty Harry (Clint Eastwood) "A man must know his limitations" ran through my mind. 

With this in mind I decided to abort my original plan and divert to Roosevelt lake. I spent the remainder of the day napping, hydrating, and attempting to stay cool.  After sundown I headed toward my home in Gilbert Arizona under a clear sky and full moon. 

It was impossible to ride the steep washboard gravel road which was a third of the 63 miles. I pushed my loaded bicycle at least half of the way. It took 9.5 hours to reach the city and my home.

 I hydrated and rested my swollen legs the next day while I thought about what there was to learn from this nightmare misadventure. I learned I was finally mature enough to realize my limits. 

As a younger man my pride would have gotten in the way. This was a vital lesson well worth the nightmare. I reconfigured my bike and set more realistic goals.

two hundred thirty one

These are the places I have seen from the seat of my trusty bicycle "Walter".

San Diego California to Gilbert Arizona was my first long trip, this was in the early spring of 2004. I was in the middle of no where with only my bicycle and it was perfect. I watched a private Blue Angel air show in El Centro California as they practiced for their upcoming season.

The second trip was in the summer of 2004. This trip began in San Francisco California and ended in San Diego California following the narrow but scenic Pacific Highway.

In late summer of the same year, I took my third trip starting in St Augustine Florida and ending  in Bar Harbor Maine. This included the outer banks of North Carolina, Washington DC, and the autumn leaves of New England.

The fourth trip was in the summer of 2006; it began in Cedar City Utah. This trip included the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Navajo Nation; it ended in hot Gilbert Arizona.

Trip five was in 2007 beginning in San Francisco up the Pacific coastline, the Redwood Highway, and the Washington islands. This trip ended in Bellingham Washington.

I then took trip six in the spring of 2008, starting in San Francisco crossing Nevada on highway 50, three 9000 foot passes, and Niagara Falls. This trip ended on a rainy Hampton Beach New Hampshire beach.

In 2009 I headed to Vancouver Canada, parked my car at a friend’s house in Tsawwassen British Columbia Canada and headed for Key West Florida. I saw a forest fire, a Mississippi River flood, tornadoes in the plain states, and a hurricane in Alabama and Key West.

These trips totaled over 14000 miles or 22500 km according to my GPS.

Obviously it has been way too long since my last adventure. I have a few more states left to explore. I'm in the process of planning my next Really Big Circle.

two hundred thirty

BEST SMILE EVER

This picture was taken with a telephoto lens as I finally found the correct house. I had been given the name of some friend in southern Florida by a friend in Canada. All I had was a name, a phone number and a general location. After a very awkward conversation, they checked with each other and granted me access. I think my story was so far fetched it must have been true.

I had borrowed a land line in a gas station because my cell phone was out of power. The clerk behind the bullet proof glass was dressed head to toe in a black burga with only her eyes showing. I assume the glass office was air conditioned, but as she handed me the phone it was almost too hot to touch. This was one tough lady. 

I discovered I had passed their house by about twelve miles so I had to back track. It was extremely hot and humid on this Florida mid August afternoon. My body was bullet proof after almost two months on the road so it was no big deal.

The generosity of people always amazes me and this was no exception. I was a total stranger with only a phone number and a familiar name. If it was me, I would have been much more suspicious of a guy on the road. 

My back tire was going flat in this picture, it finally had to be replaced from wear. I did get a ride in his Porsche to a local bike shop the next morning and hit the road by noon. Another amazing day on the road.

I think I can do this one more time. That smile is worth all of the suffering.

two hundred twenty nine

FAT 'N HAPPY

This is a recent picture taken in 2012. I'm spending a lot of time working in front of a computer key board and haven't thrown my leg over a bicycle in a year. However I have a few miles left in my legs and will take another trip soon. I have not lost my sense of curiosity. I still wonder what's over the next hill and around the next corner. I'm still seeing what's in front of me and being where I am.

I'll keep you posted.....

 There are more than 200 posts, be sure to continue after the first page by clicking on "older posts", use the blog archive, or count down by number. The posts are random, but I tried to express complete thoughts in each post. The nature of this blog is about thoughts and feelings, not a travel report or guide. I journeyed through many beautiful places, what I want to express are my observations and the things I learned.  

two hundred twenty eight

FLORIDA COAST NEAR ST. AUGUSTINE

The Atlantic Ocean after a long ride from Vancouver BC. St Augustine Florida was hot and humid. I was nearing the end of this epic journey because I was only eight hundred or so miles from Key West. It is strange how my perspectives had changed. I was lean and mean, this is a really good side effect of all of the effort.

two hundred twenty seven

COLDER THAN IT LOOKS

The waters looked cold but I had no idea how cold. The winter snow pack must have been heavy in the Cascades. There were large building size ice chucks above the highway. They were only a few miles away so the water was coming directly from the ice pack...brrrr! 

It was hot on this June day so I was overheating after a long climb. The water looked really refreshing so I found a secluded cove and took a swim all natural. When I jumped in I thought my heart would stop! I quickly got out, got dressed and had to continue the climb to get warm again.