Riding into Shape?
02-11-16 | 06:08 AM
#1
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
Riding into Shape?
So, I am heading out on my first tour this spring. Because of time restrictions and a desire to hit a certain festival at a certain time, I am planning on breaking my tour up into two parts. First part will be to do three days over the Easter Weekend (due to a holiday Monday) and then finish up on the second week of May for 8 days of riding.
My goal is to be one of the first to complete the Beaches to Bluegrass route in Virginia. This starts on the board walk in VA Beach and finishes at the Cumberland Gap for about 650 miles total. My concern is that I live in Tidewater where there are no hills and the best I can do for resistance training is riding into the wind. My planned start is East to West, so the first three days will be fairly flat. On the second leg of the trip, which starts in Clarksville, VA, it starts to get hillier....finally getting into the heart of the mountains in SW Virginia.
Is there such a thing as riding into shape? And if so, am I loosing the benefit of the first three days by breaking this up over a 6 week gap in time? Your thoughts. Oh, and by the way, I have decided to take my Maya Trailer on this trip matched to my 520 that has lower gearing (down to 17 gear inches).
My goal is to be one of the first to complete the Beaches to Bluegrass route in Virginia. This starts on the board walk in VA Beach and finishes at the Cumberland Gap for about 650 miles total. My concern is that I live in Tidewater where there are no hills and the best I can do for resistance training is riding into the wind. My planned start is East to West, so the first three days will be fairly flat. On the second leg of the trip, which starts in Clarksville, VA, it starts to get hillier....finally getting into the heart of the mountains in SW Virginia.
Is there such a thing as riding into shape? And if so, am I loosing the benefit of the first three days by breaking this up over a 6 week gap in time? Your thoughts. Oh, and by the way, I have decided to take my Maya Trailer on this trip matched to my 520 that has lower gearing (down to 17 gear inches).
Last edited by Fullcount; 02-11-16 at 06:13 AM. Reason: typo
02-11-16 | 06:34 AM
#2
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 799
Likes: 1
From: San Antonio TX
In the nine months leading up to my first (and only) tour I strove to put in 100 miles a week, mostly by lengthening my route to and from work.Often this ended up being 60-80 mile weeks due to time constraints. On long Saturdays I also put in two centuries, one in January and one in March (I left in June).
I was 57 when I did that tour, and averaged 64 miles/day, about like the pace you are planning.
Got a tour of similar length (2,000 miles) planned beginning in June.
Trying for similar commutes right now with generally similar results, no centuries planned this time tho, although I believe they were valuable for psychological reasons.
I believe what helped/helps me more than anything is carrying 40-50 pounds of bottled water in my panniers for the training effect. Now that I'm getting closer to the date I'm switching over to commuting with the actual gear I will be carrying on tour.
The best I can do under the circumstances.
Mike
I was 57 when I did that tour, and averaged 64 miles/day, about like the pace you are planning.
Got a tour of similar length (2,000 miles) planned beginning in June.
Trying for similar commutes right now with generally similar results, no centuries planned this time tho, although I believe they were valuable for psychological reasons.
I believe what helped/helps me more than anything is carrying 40-50 pounds of bottled water in my panniers for the training effect. Now that I'm getting closer to the date I'm switching over to commuting with the actual gear I will be carrying on tour.
The best I can do under the circumstances.
Mike
02-11-16 | 06:38 AM
#3
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 3,032
Likes: 1,066
From: Golden, CO and Tucson, AZ
Bikes: 2012 Specialized Elite Disc, 1983 Trek 520
The bad news is six weeks may just be long enough to lose muscle condition. The good news is that three days is not enough to gain any conditioning! (That's not totally true, but a body-builder friend happened to mention that six weeks is the time it takes to notice any change in muscle shape, mass, strength, so I'm extrapolating from that.)
But you will gain some experience on the bike, and that will be fun and valuable no matter what. It'll be a good shakedown, and you'll find out if your shoes, saddle, handlebars, etc fit you for multiple days on the bike, and you have a good chance to fix problems. You can dial in your packs, maybe leave behind stuff you didn't need before you start the climbing.
It's hard to do anything to prepare for the hills in VA--take them as they come. If as your name suggests you've done some backpacking in those hills, you're already somewhat prepared, at least mentally. I love the local saying, "Our mountains may not be very high, but our valleys sure are deep."
Have fun, stay safe, and good luck!
But you will gain some experience on the bike, and that will be fun and valuable no matter what. It'll be a good shakedown, and you'll find out if your shoes, saddle, handlebars, etc fit you for multiple days on the bike, and you have a good chance to fix problems. You can dial in your packs, maybe leave behind stuff you didn't need before you start the climbing.
It's hard to do anything to prepare for the hills in VA--take them as they come. If as your name suggests you've done some backpacking in those hills, you're already somewhat prepared, at least mentally. I love the local saying, "Our mountains may not be very high, but our valleys sure are deep."
Have fun, stay safe, and good luck!
02-11-16 | 06:44 AM
#4
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 21,797
Likes: 5,732
From: Middle Earth (aka IA)
Bikes: A bunch of old bikes and a few new ones
Running low gearing always help; so does a lighter load.
I did a cross country from Seattle to Boston back when I lived in New Orleans. N.O. is flat. I did the local training races and that really helped to climb those mountains. You can always find some fast group rides.
I did a cross country from Seattle to Boston back when I lived in New Orleans. N.O. is flat. I did the local training races and that really helped to climb those mountains. You can always find some fast group rides.
02-11-16 | 06:46 AM
#5
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Joined: Jan 2003
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From: Down under down under
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Is there such a thing as riding into shape? And if so, am I loosing the benefit of the first three days by breaking this up over a 6 week gap in time? Your thoughts. Oh, and by the way, I have decided to take my Maya Trailer on this trip matched to my 520 that has lower gearing (down to 17 gear inches).
You don't have time to do that during your trip.
You want to be able to ride 3 days in a row ... and then at some point later, you want to be able to ride 8 days in a row, and tackle hills and things.
My suggestion would be to start to ride now.
Commute to and from work, if possible.
Ride after work.
Ride longer distances on weekends
If it is snowy where you are, get a trainer and ride that for 30-60 minutes several days a week.
Join a spinning class once or twice a week.
Go to the gym and do a bit of weight training.
Get outside for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.
Basically ... start getting into shape now.
__________________
Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
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Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
Century A Month Facebook Group
Machka's Website
Photo Gallery
02-11-16 | 07:17 AM
#6
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,647
Likes: 6
From: Sudbury, ON, CA
Bikes: 2012 Kona Sutra, 2002 Look AL 384, 2018 Moose Fat bike
Strength training helps too because with stronger muscles, any effort is easier. You can do strength training at home: startbodyweight.com is good for a home- and bodyweight-based program.
02-11-16 | 07:31 AM
#7
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
The bad news is six weeks may just be long enough to lose muscle condition. The good news is that three days is not enough to gain any conditioning! (That's not totally true, but a body-builder friend happened to mention that six weeks is the time it takes to notice any change in muscle shape, mass, strength, so I'm extrapolating from that.)
But you will gain some experience on the bike, and that will be fun and valuable no matter what. It'll be a good shakedown, and you'll find out if your shoes, saddle, handlebars, etc fit you for multiple days on the bike, and you have a good chance to fix problems. You can dial in your packs, maybe leave behind stuff you didn't need before you start the climbing.
It's hard to do anything to prepare for the hills in VA--take them as they come. If as your name suggests you've done some backpacking in those hills, you're already somewhat prepared, at least mentally. I love the local saying, "Our mountains may not be very high, but our valleys sure are deep."
Have fun, stay safe, and good luck!
But you will gain some experience on the bike, and that will be fun and valuable no matter what. It'll be a good shakedown, and you'll find out if your shoes, saddle, handlebars, etc fit you for multiple days on the bike, and you have a good chance to fix problems. You can dial in your packs, maybe leave behind stuff you didn't need before you start the climbing.
It's hard to do anything to prepare for the hills in VA--take them as they come. If as your name suggests you've done some backpacking in those hills, you're already somewhat prepared, at least mentally. I love the local saying, "Our mountains may not be very high, but our valleys sure are deep."
Have fun, stay safe, and good luck!
Because of the lightweight backpacking mentality, I always look for multi-purpose uses of my gear and watch what I carry. So there will be those who will ask why the trailer. Best answer is that the trailer adds a safety visibility thing and it can carry a small lockable tote that crosses as a chair off the trailer. The tote keeps all the food and other items that can attract critters when camping out. I do plan on most of the nights either in my hammock or under a tarp. Besides, I have found that the handling of this particular trailer to be great and noticed the difference with no weight on my bike. Of course, this may change after the first three days.
02-11-16 | 07:36 AM
#8
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
There is such a thing as riding into shape, but it is generally an idea used by people doing long tours (a month, or several months) and involves starting the tour riding shorter distances and gradually building up.
You don't have time to do that during your trip.
You want to be able to ride 3 days in a row ... and then at some point later, you want to be able to ride 8 days in a row, and tackle hills and things.
My suggestion would be to start to ride now.
Commute to and from work, if possible.
Ride after work.
Ride longer distances on weekends
If it is snowy where you are, get a trainer and ride that for 30-60 minutes several days a week.
Join a spinning class once or twice a week.
Go to the gym and do a bit of weight training.
Get outside for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.
Basically ... start getting into shape now.
You don't have time to do that during your trip.
You want to be able to ride 3 days in a row ... and then at some point later, you want to be able to ride 8 days in a row, and tackle hills and things.
My suggestion would be to start to ride now.
Commute to and from work, if possible.
Ride after work.
Ride longer distances on weekends
If it is snowy where you are, get a trainer and ride that for 30-60 minutes several days a week.
Join a spinning class once or twice a week.
Go to the gym and do a bit of weight training.
Get outside for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.
Basically ... start getting into shape now.
As far as commuting, I am lucky enough to work from home as I am an industrial sales rep. When I do have to hit the road, it is usually an 8 hour trip to visit several customers. Tough to do this on a bike. As far as using my trainer - I despise that thing. Maybe I should look at a spin class. Never done that before.
02-11-16 | 07:52 AM
#9
In Real Life
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 52,159
Likes: 773
From: Down under down under
Bikes: Lots
Machka, thank you for your insight. I am riding on a somewhat regular basis, putting in about 150 - 200 miles / month. Last year I rode 2000 miles, so I get in a few long rides every once in a while. I am ramping up for a rando ride the week prior to the start in March. It will be a 200K brevet.
As far as commuting, I am lucky enough to work from home as I am an industrial sales rep. When I do have to hit the road, it is usually an 8 hour trip to visit several customers. Tough to do this on a bike. As far as using my trainer - I despise that thing. Maybe I should look at a spin class. Never done that before.
As far as commuting, I am lucky enough to work from home as I am an industrial sales rep. When I do have to hit the road, it is usually an 8 hour trip to visit several customers. Tough to do this on a bike. As far as using my trainer - I despise that thing. Maybe I should look at a spin class. Never done that before.
And if you get into a good spinning class it can be well worth it. I trained a 200K on Vancouver Island mainly just riding my trainer at home + attending 2 spinning classes each week. And I made an evening of it. I'd arrive early, walk briskly on the treadmill for 15-20 min or so, then take the 1-hour spinning class. When it was over, I'd lift weights and then do a 15-20 min jog on the treadmill. All up, I'd do quite a good 2-hour workout at the gym a couple times a week.
If you're ramping up for a 200K, you'll soon want to feel comfortable with 200 km in a week, and shortly after that you'll want to be able to cover 200 km in a 3-day weekend. That'll put you in a good place for your Easter tour too.
__________________
Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
Century A Month Facebook Group
Machka's Website
Photo Gallery
Rowan
My fave photo threads on BF
Century A Month Facebook Group
Machka's Website
Photo Gallery
02-11-16 | 08:01 AM
#10
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
Training with a load
Been experimenting with my options on the load and taking the gear as I would be out on tour. I have tried the different options. I'll add pictures below.
First pic is of the 520 and trailer and what I believe to be taking. The second picture is that same bike, with the panniers on. I like this bike better than my other option (Surly) as it is lighter and has lower gearing (17 gear inches). Problem when I put panniers on the 520, is that I have to move the bigger bags to the front and the narrower bags to the back in order to avoid heel strike. This arrangement handles poorly as there is too much weight up front. Last picture is the LHT with the bags mounted as they should be. Still a heavy load on this bike when you add my 210 pounds to the equation.
Any thoughts?
Been experimenting with my options on the load and taking the gear as I would be out on tour. I have tried the different options. I'll add pictures below.
First pic is of the 520 and trailer and what I believe to be taking. The second picture is that same bike, with the panniers on. I like this bike better than my other option (Surly) as it is lighter and has lower gearing (17 gear inches). Problem when I put panniers on the 520, is that I have to move the bigger bags to the front and the narrower bags to the back in order to avoid heel strike. This arrangement handles poorly as there is too much weight up front. Last picture is the LHT with the bags mounted as they should be. Still a heavy load on this bike when you add my 210 pounds to the equation.
Any thoughts?
Last edited by Fullcount; 02-11-16 at 08:03 AM. Reason: grammar
02-11-16 | 09:54 AM
#11
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 1,012
Likes: 34
From: Perth Australia
Bikes: Surly Ogre, Extrawheel Trailer
I like this bike better than my other option (Surly) as it is lighter and has lower gearing (17 gear inches). Problem when I put panniers on the 520, is that I have to move the bigger bags to the front and the narrower bags to the back in order to avoid heel strike.
Any thoughts?
Its not about the bike, but a bit of aesthetic appeasement never hurt anyone.
I don't know what racks your rocking but I do know Tubus has some rack "raisers" that lift the height of their rear panniers a bit to help overcome heel strike and am pretty sure Surly does something for the "Nice" rack.
These Tubus ones might work for other brand rear racks:
https://www.bike24.com/1.php?content...00,5,79;page=2
The Surly look a little more Surly specific but............
Cargo | Parts and Accessories | Surly Bikes
You can see how they work here:
https://surlybikes.com//uploads/downl...structions.pdf
Basically those tubes I linked too, attach at the bottom of the rack by slotting over the rack tubes.
Thats my thoughts for night (nearly midnight over here)
PS: I like the look of your trailer, especially the "legs".
What model is it?
Last edited by rifraf; 02-11-16 at 09:58 AM.
02-11-16 | 11:16 AM
#12
Banned.
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 8,651
Likes: 3
From: Uncertain
Six weeks is far longer than it will take to lose the marginal fitness gains you'll make in the first three days. And on the eight day trip, by the time you notice you're getting stronger you'll be nearly finished. However, the distances involved aren't too intimidating, so take it at your own pace and you'll probably do fine.
I'd be less sanguine about your load, which looks huge. I pack smaller than that when I'm going to be out for six weeks, and I'm a long way from being an ultralight tourist. Have you weighed it? Taking 10 kilos off will do as much for you on the hills than any training you're likely to do between now and then.
I'd be less sanguine about your load, which looks huge. I pack smaller than that when I'm going to be out for six weeks, and I'm a long way from being an ultralight tourist. Have you weighed it? Taking 10 kilos off will do as much for you on the hills than any training you're likely to do between now and then.
02-11-16 | 11:32 AM
#13
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
Having a bike you like is a good thing.
Its not about the bike, but a bit of aesthetic appeasement never hurt anyone.
I don't know what racks your rocking but I do know Tubus has some rack "raisers" that lift the height of their rear panniers a bit to help overcome heel strike and am pretty sure Surly does something for the "Nice" rack.
These Tubus ones might work for other brand rear racks:
https://www.bike24.com/1.php?content...00,5,79;page=2
The Surly look a little more Surly specific but............
Cargo | Parts and Accessories | Surly Bikes
You can see how they work here:
https://surlybikes.com//uploads/downl...structions.pdf
Basically those tubes I linked too, attach at the bottom of the rack by slotting over the rack tubes.
Thats my thoughts for night (nearly midnight over here)
PS: I like the look of your trailer, especially the "legs".
What model is it?
Its not about the bike, but a bit of aesthetic appeasement never hurt anyone.
I don't know what racks your rocking but I do know Tubus has some rack "raisers" that lift the height of their rear panniers a bit to help overcome heel strike and am pretty sure Surly does something for the "Nice" rack.
These Tubus ones might work for other brand rear racks:
https://www.bike24.com/1.php?content...00,5,79;page=2
The Surly look a little more Surly specific but............
Cargo | Parts and Accessories | Surly Bikes
You can see how they work here:
https://surlybikes.com//uploads/downl...structions.pdf
Basically those tubes I linked too, attach at the bottom of the rack by slotting over the rack tubes.
Thats my thoughts for night (nearly midnight over here)
PS: I like the look of your trailer, especially the "legs".
What model is it?
On the trailer, it is a Maya Cycle one wheeled trailer. It is lighter than a comparable BOB and it comes with wheelbarrow handles for non touring use - I have taken those off due to weight minimization. Follow this link and there a couple of good videos on the trailer. Homepage - Maya Cycle
02-11-16 | 11:38 AM
#14
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
Six weeks is far longer than it will take to lose the marginal fitness gains you'll make in the first three days. And on the eight day trip, by the time you notice you're getting stronger you'll be nearly finished. However, the distances involved aren't too intimidating, so take it at your own pace and you'll probably do fine.
I'd be less sanguine about your load, which looks huge. I pack smaller than that when I'm going to be out for six weeks, and I'm a long way from being an ultralight tourist. Have you weighed it? Taking 10 kilos off will do as much for you on the hills than any training you're likely to do between now and then.
I'd be less sanguine about your load, which looks huge. I pack smaller than that when I'm going to be out for six weeks, and I'm a long way from being an ultralight tourist. Have you weighed it? Taking 10 kilos off will do as much for you on the hills than any training you're likely to do between now and then.
[TABLE]
[TR]
[TD]Left Front Pannier
· Sleeping Bag
· Winter Green Bag
· Hammock
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]Trunk Bag – Main
· Tool Bag
o Repair Spoke
o Spoke Tool
o Crank Bros Tire Tool
o Crank Bros Zip Tool
o Extra Tube - 27"
o Extra Tube - 16"
o Patch Kit
o Chain Lube
o Park Tool Grease
o Allen Head Set
o Crescent Wrench
o Phillips Head Screw Driver
o Chain Tool
o Grease Rag in Ziploc
o Cartridge Air Pump
o (3) Spare Cartridges
· Rain Jacket
· Rain Pants
Trunk Bag Left Flap
· Maps & Cue Sheet
Trunk Bag Right Flap
· Energy Bars
· Headache Medicine
SPOT Transmitter Strapped to Top
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]TOTE
Food Bag - Three Day Supply
· Peanut Butter - small plastic jar
· Jelly container
· Tortillas
· Tuna
· Ramen Noodle Soup
· (3) Freeze Dried Meals - emergency
· Coffee / sugar / creamer
· Oatmeal Packets
· Breakfast Bars
· Jerky
· Pay Day Bars
Ditty Bag
· Toothpaste
· Tooth Brush
· Mouth Wash
· Shaving Cream
· Razor
· Floss
· First Aid Kit
· Vitamin I
· Toenail Clippers
· Safety Pins
· Wash Cloth
· Body Wash
Trangia Titanium Alcohol Stove
Alcohol Bottle
Hammock Bridge Poles
Solar Panel Holder
· (1) Wall Charger
· Extra Batteries for Head Lamp
· Extra Batteries for Handlebar Computer and Wahoo Cadence Sensor
Samsung Tablet in Ziploc
Sleep Pad
Dirty Cloths Bag
Drying Towel
Pair of Crocs
Toilet Paper
Packa
Day Pack
Tool Pak / Pouch
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]
02-11-16 | 11:43 AM
#15
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
More stuff
[TABLE]
[TR]
[TD]Handle Bar Bag
· Wallet
· Important papers
· Battery Pack - 2
· Delorme GPS in left sleeve
· Water squirting bottle - right sleeve
· Shoulder Strap - front sleeve
· Head lamp
· Money
· Charging cable
· Current Cue Sheet
· Baseball Cap with light
· (2) Spare Ziploc Bags
· (1) Wall Charger
· Journal in Ziplock
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]On Bike
· (3) Water Bottles
· Phone on Stem inside Bag
· Air Pump / Stem Mount
· Rear Red Flasher
· Front Clear Flasher
· Bicycle Light - 500 Lumens
· Wahoo Cadence Sensor
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]On Person
· Riding Shorts
· Jersey
· Riding Socks
· Skull Cap
· Watch
· Blue Tooth Receiver
· Winter Stuff
o Neck Gaiter
o Smart Wool Under layer
o Long Pants
o Shoe Covers
o Riding Shoes
o Wool Socks
o Mtn Hardware Hat
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]
[TABLE]
[TR]
[TD]Handle Bar Bag
· Wallet
· Important papers
· Battery Pack - 2
· Delorme GPS in left sleeve
· Water squirting bottle - right sleeve
· Shoulder Strap - front sleeve
· Head lamp
· Money
· Charging cable
· Current Cue Sheet
· Baseball Cap with light
· (2) Spare Ziploc Bags
· (1) Wall Charger
· Journal in Ziplock
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]On Bike
· (3) Water Bottles
· Phone on Stem inside Bag
· Air Pump / Stem Mount
· Rear Red Flasher
· Front Clear Flasher
· Bicycle Light - 500 Lumens
· Wahoo Cadence Sensor
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]On Person
· Riding Shorts
· Jersey
· Riding Socks
· Skull Cap
· Watch
· Blue Tooth Receiver
· Winter Stuff
o Neck Gaiter
o Smart Wool Under layer
o Long Pants
o Shoe Covers
o Riding Shoes
o Wool Socks
o Mtn Hardware Hat
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]
02-11-16 | 11:44 AM
#16
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
And Final Tally
[TABLE]
[TR]
[TD]Front Right Pannier
· 2 Jerseys Short sleeve
· 2 jerseys long sleeve
· Jock Strap
· Extra riding
· Off Bike Cloths
o Blue Running pants
o Socks
o Tee Shirt
· Pajama Bottoms
· Night Shorts
· Yellow North Face
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]Need
· Small Lock for Tote
· Closed Cell Foam Pad Cut
· Extra Light for Bike
· Extra Batteries for SPOT
· (2) Air Pump Cartridge
· (4) Light weight stakes
· Button Batteries
· Small Journal
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]Maya Trailer
Mesh Bag
· Tarp
· Tent Stakes
· Foot print
· Bug Screen
Closed Cell Foam Pad (under Tote and cut to trailer dimensions).
Silver Pad
(3) Bungee Cords
Visibility Flag
[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]
[TABLE]
[TR]
[TD]Front Right Pannier
· 2 Jerseys Short sleeve
· 2 jerseys long sleeve
· Jock Strap
· Extra riding
· Off Bike Cloths
o Blue Running pants
o Socks
o Tee Shirt
· Pajama Bottoms
· Night Shorts
· Yellow North Face
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]Need
· Small Lock for Tote
· Closed Cell Foam Pad Cut
· Extra Light for Bike
· Extra Batteries for SPOT
· (2) Air Pump Cartridge
· (4) Light weight stakes
· Button Batteries
· Small Journal
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]Maya Trailer
Mesh Bag
· Tarp
· Tent Stakes
· Foot print
· Bug Screen
Closed Cell Foam Pad (under Tote and cut to trailer dimensions).
Silver Pad
(3) Bungee Cords
Visibility Flag
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02-11-16 | 11:55 AM
#17
Banned.
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 8,651
Likes: 3
From: Uncertain
That's long list, I haven't had time to digest it fully. But speaking of digestion, I wouldn't haul three days-worth of food around unless I was heading out into Patagonia. Are you ever going to be more than a day from a store? I'd suggest buying as you go, just hauling oatmeal for breakfast or something like that.
02-11-16 | 12:32 PM
#18
Full Member
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 207
Likes: 8
From: Seattle
So let me get this straight, you are planning on riding 650-miles over 11 today days, broken up into 3 days, 6-week break, then another 8 days?
If so, that is on average approx. 60-miles per day assuming no rest days over the 11 days.
I highly suggest you plan a single night out and back trip before Easter, which would be 60-miles each way (120miles total - your current monthly training average). Learn from that and plan accordingly. That way you can not only gauge your fitness, but also your gear and clothes situation.
If so, that is on average approx. 60-miles per day assuming no rest days over the 11 days.
I highly suggest you plan a single night out and back trip before Easter, which would be 60-miles each way (120miles total - your current monthly training average). Learn from that and plan accordingly. That way you can not only gauge your fitness, but also your gear and clothes situation.
02-11-16 | 12:45 PM
#19
-
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,865
Likes: 41
Bikes: yes!
Once you are conditioned to bicycling, you will begin to lose it in a matter of days, not weeks.
02-11-16 | 12:47 PM
#20
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 45,252
Likes: 23,421
That load, even paired down a bit, is making my head spin and I am nowhere near an UL guy myself.
E.g.,
Dirty clothes bag?
How many front bike lights do I see listed?
Baseball cap with light AND a separate head lamp?
Water squirting bottle?
Three days worth of food and all those snacks? Is this route really that rural?
Toenail clippers? How fast do your nails grow?
I could go on.
And do I see any cooking utensils? Where will you brew your coffee?
I am going to SW Montana in June, where and when I could see snow (got snowed on there at elevation in 2014) and/or temps at or below 40. Max. elevation 8,000'. Here is what I am taking:
Shelter:
UL tent
20 degree sleeping bag
mattress
blue tarp
Cooking:
Optimus Nova stove
22 oz. fuel bottle
MSR Blacklite 2-pot cook set, inside of which will be spatula, pot strainer, spork, small vial of olive oil, head of garlic, collapsible plastic corkscrew, feather weight bottle opener, P-51 can opener, pot gripper, sponge, small bottle of camp soap and cig lighter
Light cutting board
Light paring knife
Lexan bowl
Lexan cup
Lexan plate (maybe)
Plastic French press
coffee
1 package of Perpetuem
Couple of Cliff bars
Riding Clothes:
2 short sleeve jerseys
2 bib shorts
2 pair summer socks
Long sleeve jersey (Maybe)
1 pair of wool socks
skull cap
short gloves
Polypro glove liners
Winter gloves
Glasses
Arm and leg warmers
Rain pants and rain jacket
Wind shell
Base layer
Off Bike Clothes:
Underwear (x2)
Convertible pants
Polypro Long John bottoms
Light weight sandals
Wool hat (Maybe)
Synthetic t-shirt
Long sleeve t-shirt (Maybe)
Tools, etc.:
Allen wrench/screw driver set
Chain tool
Topeak Road Morph G pump
2 or 3 spare tubes (I will have 6 or seven dozen miles of off-road riding.)
Patch kit
Rear flasher
A few spare rack bolts
Chain lube and rag
Misc:
40 oz. Camelback
2 water bottles
Basic first aid supplies (a few band-aids, some tape and a few gauze pads)
Vitamin I and blood thinners
Pen
Paperback novel
Headlamp with extra batteries
2 or 3 pages of cues, route notes and phone numbers
Flip phone & charger cable
Sony RX100 II camera in case (Maybe an extra battery)
Small binoculars
Medium PakTowel
Travel toothbrush
Travel size toothpaste
Disposable razor (x2)
Small bottle of Deet
Sunblock
Bandanas (x2)
Light cable with built-in combination lock
Reading glasses
Wallet with cards and money
Think that's about it.
E.g.,
Dirty clothes bag?
How many front bike lights do I see listed?
Baseball cap with light AND a separate head lamp?
Water squirting bottle?
Three days worth of food and all those snacks? Is this route really that rural?
Toenail clippers? How fast do your nails grow?
I could go on.
And do I see any cooking utensils? Where will you brew your coffee?
I am going to SW Montana in June, where and when I could see snow (got snowed on there at elevation in 2014) and/or temps at or below 40. Max. elevation 8,000'. Here is what I am taking:
Shelter:
UL tent
20 degree sleeping bag
mattress
blue tarp
Cooking:
Optimus Nova stove
22 oz. fuel bottle
MSR Blacklite 2-pot cook set, inside of which will be spatula, pot strainer, spork, small vial of olive oil, head of garlic, collapsible plastic corkscrew, feather weight bottle opener, P-51 can opener, pot gripper, sponge, small bottle of camp soap and cig lighter
Light cutting board
Light paring knife
Lexan bowl
Lexan cup
Lexan plate (maybe)
Plastic French press
coffee
1 package of Perpetuem
Couple of Cliff bars
Riding Clothes:
2 short sleeve jerseys
2 bib shorts
2 pair summer socks
Long sleeve jersey (Maybe)
1 pair of wool socks
skull cap
short gloves
Polypro glove liners
Winter gloves
Glasses
Arm and leg warmers
Rain pants and rain jacket
Wind shell
Base layer
Off Bike Clothes:
Underwear (x2)
Convertible pants
Polypro Long John bottoms
Light weight sandals
Wool hat (Maybe)
Synthetic t-shirt
Long sleeve t-shirt (Maybe)
Tools, etc.:
Allen wrench/screw driver set
Chain tool
Topeak Road Morph G pump
2 or 3 spare tubes (I will have 6 or seven dozen miles of off-road riding.)
Patch kit
Rear flasher
A few spare rack bolts
Chain lube and rag
Misc:
40 oz. Camelback
2 water bottles
Basic first aid supplies (a few band-aids, some tape and a few gauze pads)
Vitamin I and blood thinners
Pen
Paperback novel
Headlamp with extra batteries
2 or 3 pages of cues, route notes and phone numbers
Flip phone & charger cable
Sony RX100 II camera in case (Maybe an extra battery)
Small binoculars
Medium PakTowel
Travel toothbrush
Travel size toothpaste
Disposable razor (x2)
Small bottle of Deet
Sunblock
Bandanas (x2)
Light cable with built-in combination lock
Reading glasses
Wallet with cards and money
Think that's about it.
02-11-16 | 02:33 PM
#23
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
02-11-16 | 02:35 PM
#24
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,251
Likes: 17
As long as you don't try to pack too much stuff you should be able to 'ride into shape'. I agree you won't keep your shape until May unless you spend time on the bike. Granted 3 days won't give you much to start with. I would say don't worry too much about it. Just go enjoy the trip and don't plan to bite off more than you chew each day.
02-11-16 | 02:42 PM
#25
Thread Starter
Interested Backpacker
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 284
Likes: 8
From: Hampton, Va
Bikes: 88 Peugot US Express, 2019 Bachetta Bella, 2023 Catrike Dumont, 2001 Trek 520 Slate Pearl, MayaCycle Trailer, 2104 Trek Domane, Sun EZ Sport Recumbent
That load, even paired down a bit, is making my head spin and I am nowhere near an UL guy myself.
E.g.,
"Dirty clothes bag?
How many front bike lights do I see listed?
Baseball cap with light AND a separate head lamp?
Water squirting bottle?
Three days worth of food and all those snacks? Is this route really that rural?
Toenail clippers? How fast do your nails grow??
Indy, you had me belly laughing. I guess I forget I am not backpacking and can go without the nail clippers. The food thing is going to get paired down to one days worth and I will purchase as I need. The food bag has my spork inside by default. On the lights, I am scared of things that go bump in the night....just kidding, guess I will ditch the head lamp, but leave the bill lamp on my baseball hat in case I do some night riding and need to see my cue sheet.
I am thinking I will park the hammock at home and just go with the tarp (silnylon) and ground cloth. Shucks, may try to get everything paired down to just a rear set of panniers and leave the trailer too. I'll let you know.
PS: That water squirting bottle.....for keeping the dogs at bay.
E.g.,
"Dirty clothes bag?
How many front bike lights do I see listed?
Baseball cap with light AND a separate head lamp?
Water squirting bottle?
Three days worth of food and all those snacks? Is this route really that rural?
Toenail clippers? How fast do your nails grow??
Indy, you had me belly laughing. I guess I forget I am not backpacking and can go without the nail clippers. The food thing is going to get paired down to one days worth and I will purchase as I need. The food bag has my spork inside by default. On the lights, I am scared of things that go bump in the night....just kidding, guess I will ditch the head lamp, but leave the bill lamp on my baseball hat in case I do some night riding and need to see my cue sheet.
I am thinking I will park the hammock at home and just go with the tarp (silnylon) and ground cloth. Shucks, may try to get everything paired down to just a rear set of panniers and leave the trailer too. I'll let you know.
PS: That water squirting bottle.....for keeping the dogs at bay.