Just saw this thread.

Can't access your route description - it says one needs permission.

I just did Winnipeg to Vancouver so I can comment a bit on the western half if you plan to follow the trans can. Your idea about training with smaller trips is sound. It will help you get used to your bike, see what works and what doesn't and generally get in shape before setting out.

Cost is a big variable. If you hotel/motel expect between 70-100/night. If you camp in campgrounds between 10-30/night. If you stealth well... less. Food is sort of the same. Eating out is expensive but sometimes nice. Shopping is as shopping is. You just need to calculate your days and from that develop a budget with some wiggle room for unexpected stuff.

A fast crossing west to east is about 8 weeks, I would plan for 10 or more and be happy if it cost/takes less. Better to have left overs than come up short. Also plan on how to get home! May may be a little early, depends on weather patterns (this year we had a great spring and a crappier summer it seems). June, July, August sounds good as a rule of thumb though.

Here's a link to my website from the trip. Let me know if I can help as we are in the same geographic region. There are a couple of us who plan to do local weekend trips and perhaps you can join in (if you want). Last year we also did some day trips up and down the Fraser Canyon/Coquihalla for fun.

WECANRIDE 2016:Cycling across Western CanadaTo Raise Awareness about Dementia - Home

Cheers,
Dale.