Originally Posted by
axolotl
A better question is why were so many people saying "Go for it!" when Ryan was proposing something that was obviously unworkable. He had too little time, lacked the proper equipment, lacked sufficient funds, lacked experience, had unsuitable weather, insufficient daylight, and on and on.
What he proposed was quite possible even given the short notice.
We didn't and still don't know his financial status (not that we should).
Others have started off with little or no experience and succeeded. Remember RobbyKills, the guy who wanted to carry a machete for protection and did a full coast to coast trip picking his route as he went. He had a very successful trip.
I think Ryan had more lead time than we did when we did out TA. We did own camping gear and had a wealth of outdoor and camping experience, but others have succeeded without any. It really doesn't take much planning, but leaving on a xc tour where you will need to camp without having panniers, sleeping bag, and tent lined up is a recipe for failure. He could have spent some of the time and money devoted to web development on that. Even buying new, it is possible to find a serviceable tent, sleeping pad and bag, and panniers for $300 or so.
It wasn't/isn't all that unreasonable of a goal. It is definitely possible.