Our First Two Weeks of a Trans-America Cycling Tour

Reader Contribution by Rick Stiles
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Our sea-to-shining-sea bicycle trip started in the Pacific at Gearhart, Ore. While standing in the ocean, I felt its immensity but also the immense journey ahead. What had I committed to? What had I forgotten? What about family and friends left behind? 

Pat and Judy sent us on our way with coffee and rolls after Pat graciously allowed us to spend the night in her house. Next came Clatskanie, Ore., where Lofur allowed us to camp in his yard. He fixed delicious smoothies in the evening and hot chai tea in the morning. Nice people are everywhere you look.  Unfortunately, the weather was not so friendly— we rode the first six days in cold and rain; setting up and tearing down a campsite in the rain are no fun.  At least my tent stayed dry so I was able to “sleep tight.”

Riding a recumbent bike allows you to easily see what is around you, and the scenery has been beautiful.  When riding slow up steep hills, you can sit back and enjoy the view instead of staring at the road. Voila— before you know it, you are at the top.

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