Cheers again guys- lots more useful information for me to get my head around there..!
I'll tackle all these things one at a time over the coming weeks to save a panic at the last moment.
Good news- JUST came back from seeing an Orthopedic Sports Doctor and I've basically been given the all clear for me knee(s) and in general for continuing to train for this trip..! Had X Rays- the lot.
In a nutshell I've had SLIGHT Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runners Knee) as a result of a years old injury (That didn't need surgery at the time, was pretty minor).
It's basically what I stated above- as my feet are too big to go into the clips I was using my toes to pedal- bad mistake, and so got the knee twinge. On a scale of 1-10 it was a 0:5 so very subtle- not even painful, just slight pressure and felt like need to click.
Now I'm using the underside of the pedals in the mid of my foot it's fine. But yeah, it's done me the world of good to get an official go ahead from a Doc and I'm looking forwards to my next training sesh tomorrow.
Aye, I don't think I'll have any trouble getting a Canadian Visa as a UK Citizen and already have my US ESTA for entry but nonetheless I'll contact the Embassy/Consulate in Canada and find out anyway.
I'll defo be getting sufficient Travel Insurance too of course- no brainer that one..!
About NOT staying in San Fran- that's a REAL shame to hear that..! I was specifically planning to stay there for about 3-4 days as I really want to see it once in my life. Surely people stay there safely or is it that bad?
I'll be getting a US Sim too aye.
In general it sounds more difficult practical-wise as soon as you hit LA and head further South. This is a part of the full PCBR though so I'll do some more research into that stretch specifically though as I know thousands of people have completed this, but thanks for the heads up either way..!
I'll DEFO be using the ACA Maps either way so am assuming they hold all the relevant information and routes?
Cheers again guys- it's brilliant here for info and enthusiasm and as always I really do appreciate your time for this.