BetterBills TransAm Blog

Made It!

2010-08-08T14:10:00.004-05:00

To view my Best Of Trip List click here

Tuesday 8-3. I MADE IT:) Day 89 - 72 miles 4417 miles total. Salmonberry Park to Florence. The first leg of the day from Salmonberry Park to Waldport was very nice with rolling hills through rain forest on a quiet highway along the Alsea River. Had a wonderful breakfast dockside at Tidewater. At Waldport we got first sight of the Pacific and shortly after came the wheel dipping :) The ride down the coast on Pacific Coast Highway 101 was the most scenic of the trip. There were stunning views of the Oregon Coast and I stopped for many pictures. I also stopped at Haceta Head Lighthouse. This ride could be the best day of the trip except for the heavy traffic on PCH101. Victory dinner that evening was at International Seafood House in "Old Town" Florence, an eclectic area of restaurants, bars and gift shops on the Siuslaw River.

SUCCESS!

Group Success - all 14 of us.

Haceta Head Lighthouse - Oregon Coast

Oregon Coast

Victory Dinner

Oregon To The Coast

2010-08-08T13:50:00.001-05:00

Monday 8-2 day 88 62 miles 4345 total. Coburg to Salmonberry Park. Crossed the coastal range with the last big climb of the trip 6 miles of up to 6% grade, but a very nice ride. We are now firmly on the coastal side of Oregon. Salmonberry is located near the town of Alsea on the Alsea River among large moss covered trees.

Hayden Bridge - 1918

But which way to the coast?

Sunday 8-1 day 87 - 57 miles 4283 total. McKenzie Bridge to Coburg. A splendid ride mostly downhill with nice scenery. McKenzie river was on the left most of the way. There was some fog in the morning that did not hinder riding. Cold morning, but cool and sunny in the afternoon. Saw two eagles and two Osprey today and got good pictures of the Osprey.

Osprey in action

Covered bridge over the McKenzie River

Saturday 7-31 day 86 - 48 miles 4226 total. Sisters to McKenzie Bridge. Began the day with a 10 mile climb over McKenzie pass. This pass looked intimidating on the profile, but was pretty easy as passes go. Could it be by the end of the trip we're getting used to them? There was an observatory on the top of the pass that provided some spectacular view, especially of the lava flows. The day ended with a long (10 miles) downhill into the city of McKenzie Bridge through the lush tall treed Willamette National Forest. For all that are interested McKenzie Bridge, Pass and River are named after Donald McKenzie who is a cousin to the famous Canadian explorer Alexander McKenzie for whom the McKenzie river in Canada is named.

BetterBill with sisters

Friday 7-30 day 85 - 37 miles 4178 total miles. Prineville to Sisters. Very short day, some climbing, but otherwise a flat fast ride. Camped at Evered's Ranch. Beautiful view of The Sisters and Mt. Jefferson with a pond to swim in. Patty Evered was an excellent host on a ranch with a view.

Patty Evered

Relaxing at camp

Nice Sunset

Barn with Three Sisters

First view of Three Sisters

Thursday 7-29 day 84 - 49 miles 4141 total miles. Mitchell to Prineville. The day began with a long 10 mile climb, but it was all downhill from there and a short day at that. Found great ice cream at Tastee Treat in Prineville. New beer of the trip was Mirror Pond Pale Ale from Deshutes Brewing Co. of Bend, Oregon.

This one is pretty good! Quote of the day:

"You can only drink 30 or 40 glasses of beer a day no mater how rich you are." August Bush

Wednesday 7-28 day 83 - 86 miles - 4092 total. Prairie City to Mitchell. This was the longest ride of the trip and featured hills, rain, flat tire, and great scenery - all in all a wonderful day. Picture Gorge was beautiful and I got nice pictures of the fossil beds and overview. Stayed the night in the Historic Oregon Hotel. Very quaint, nice well kept and better than expected. The last big climb of the day topped out at ten miles from the hotel. The decent was so steep and long that I did not peddle one stroke from top to hotel and attained speeds of 48 mph without even tucking. Fantastic!

Overview of fossil beds area

Oregon barn scene

Tuesday 7-27 day 82 - 68 miles - 4006 total miles. Bakers City to Prairie City. Today was much different than the past two days in Hell's Canyon. The ride featured three mountain passes that were not too bad and a lush forest with lots of trees. The Oxbow Restaurant and Saloon in Prairie City was a big hit with everyone ( focus on saloon).

Prairie Scooner display near Prairie City, OR

Excellent restaurant and Brewpub in Baker City where they say

"Beer: So much more than just a breakfast drink"!

Oregon Bicycle Rack

Eye Popping Idaho

2010-07-26T12:17:00.000-05:00

Monday 7-26 day 81 Layover day in Baker City.

Sunday 7-25 day 80 - 54 miles 3938 total. Halfway to Bakers City. Another hot day in Hell's Canyon. Bike computers measure 110 degrees. This was not in the shade, but there was no shade. no water and lots of climbing. This was a tough day!

Nice photo of a barn, but this is not Hell's Canyon. There are no trees in Hell's Canyon.

Saturday 7-24 day 79 - 80 miles 3884 total. Council to Halfway Oregon. New state day today: OREGON the final state. As soon as we crossed the Snake River into Oregon the river was lined with Cherry trees limbs bowed with fat ripe cherries. There were also lots of Blackberry bushes, but those who picked them received flats from the thorns. Then we entered Hells Canyon. I'm sure it was named for the heat there - 103 at Scotties Station. Had a wonderful dinner that night at Mimi's Cafe in Halfway. I had a great Salmon Burger and shared a delicious bottle of Hell's Canyon Retriever Red wine with Ray and Michel. This might have been the best dinner of the trip, and in such an unexpected place.

Dinner at Mimi's Cafe with Joe, Will, James, Jack, Michel, Bill & Ray

Nice barn in Idaho

Jack at top of climb

Friday 7-23 day 78 - 62 miles 3804 total. Riggins to Council. Another fine day on the bike with an easy climb in the morning, but a tougher climb to end the day. Followed the Little Salmon River most of the day. Camp was a nice RV park with maybe the best showers of the trip.

Thursday 7-22 day 77 - 53 miles 3742 total. Grangeville to Riggins. There was a tough climb up White Bird Hill to begin the day, but fun fast downhill with many switchbacks. Followed the Salmon river most of the way. Camped at a pretty campsite on the Salmon River in Riggins - the whitewater capitol of Idaho!

Sunset at Riggins camp with Salmon River in foreground.

Wednesday 7-21 day 76 - 50 miles 3689 total. Lowell to Grangeville. Today's ride was up the middle and south forks of the Clearwater River. Steep climb at the end of the day was not as bad as advertised. I had the best smoothie of the trip so far at Hanna's Closet and Espresso.

You may remember Randy and Meg who started the trip with us, but left us at Chester, IL. They are from Idaho and Meg found us here in Grangeville. She helped us shuttle groceries and had dinner with us. It was nice to see her again.

James and Mort at top of White Bird Hill

Clearwater River

Tuesday 7-20 day 75 - 66 miles 3639 total. Lochsa Lodge to Lowell. Travel through the Selway and Bitterroot Wilderness and the Clearwater National Forest. Lots of history here. US Highway 12 from Lolo, MT, over Lolo Pass, to Lowell ID is the general path that Lewis & Clark took in 1804 on their Voyage Of Discovery. It is also the route that the Nes Perce Indians took on their failed attempt to flee the US Military in 1877. It was a very difficult trail at the time, but today it is a beautiful drive. Western Ceders reach to the clouds with Engleman Spruce, Lodgepole Pines and other pines joining in. The forest floor is covered with ferns and other growth. To the left is the everpresent Lochsa River with many streams and waterfalls flowing in from the right. The ride through it was 65 miles downhill with cool temperatures. It was truely one of the best days of the trip. This is a pretty and historic highway with little traffic. You should plan to drive (or bike) it someday.

Tumble Down waterfall.

Waterfall

Lochsa River

Robert, Jack, Olaf and Mort viewing Lewis and Clark Information

Monday 7-19 day 74 - 57 miles 3573 total. Missoula to Lochsa Lodge, Idaho. Traveled the Lolo Trail over Lolo Pass (5225') into Idaho. Idaho turns into a lush dense forested area wilderness. In addition to a new state day we also passed into Pacific time. Even with the Lolo Pass climb, it was a very enjoyable ride. Rod, Ginny, and Gregg from Adventure Cycling Association came down to Lochsa Lodge and put on a BBQ for us that evening.

ACA barbeque

Rod and helpers from ACA

BetterBill at summit of Lolo Pass

Olaf and Robert at ACA headquarters in Missoula, MT

Made it to Missoula

2010-07-18T11:07:00.002-05:00

Sunday 7-18 day 73. Layover day in Missoula.

Saturday 7-17 day 72 - 74 miles 3516 total miles. Darby to Missoula - home of Adventure Cycling Association. A long uneventful day except for my third flat, but a very enjoyable downhill ride. Staying at Hutchins Hostel. A very nice hostel.

Bitterroot Mountains with shadow

Cranes in Field

Friday 7-16 day 73 0 77 miles 3442 total miles. Jackson to Darby. Climbed over Chief Joseph Pass (7241') this is the last crossing of the Continental Divide. We have been crisscrossing it since Hoosier Pass in Colorado. From now on we will be peeing into the Pacific. Visited Big Hole Battlefield National Monument Visitors Center and watched a video about treatment of the Nez Perce Indians. The days are getting warmer (90 degrees) but the nights are still chilly.

Beaverhead Rock a Lewis & Clark Landmark

Camp at Dillon KOA with Beaverhead River

Thursday 7-15 day 72 - 49 miles, 3365 total. Dillon to Jackson. Climbed over Badger Pass (6760') descended some then climbed Big Hole Pass (7360'). Big Hole Pass just kept getting steeper and longer. It almost brought me to tears before I topped it. It was tougher than I expected and I'm glad it was a short day. Two big passes just whipped everyone. Misquotes are becoming a real problem. Stayed at Jackson Hot Springs Lodge. The Hot Spring was very hot and sooo relaxing.

Breakfast at Virginia City

Ray practicing his post tour activities

Wednesday 7-14 day 71 - 73 miles, 3316 total miles. Ennis to Dillon. The day began with a long 8 mile 7% climb up the Madison River Valley followed by a long cold downhill. Interesting thing of the day was a cattle drive up the pass on the highway. Nice camp that evening at the Dillon KOA beside the Beaverhead River.

Ray and Michel chugging up Madison River Valley Pass

View of Madison River Valley

Montana Cattle Drive

Tuesday 7-13 day 70 - 73 miles 3243 total miles. West Yellowstone to Innis. Took no pictures today. Montana is Big Sky country, but not very photogenic. The most notable thing of the day was my second flat and hopefully my last - nope!

It Keeps Getting Better: Yellowstone National Park

2010-07-12T10:36:00.000-05:00

Monday 7-12 day 69. A second layover day in West Yellowstone. Just relaxed and caught up on things.

Sunday 7-11 day 68 Layover day in West Yellowstone. Took a bus tour of Yellowstone National Park. This is a great way to be introduced to the park. The driver/guide was very knowledgeable and told us a lot about the history and geology of the park. Took lots of pictures. Following are icons of Yellowstone:

Yellowstone Falls

BetterBill and Yellowstone Falls

Elk With Rack

Old Faithful

Hot Spring

Mudpot

Fumarole

Geyser

Bison - Buffalo

Old Faithful Pale Ale

Saturday 7-10 day 67 - 65 miles 3170 total miles, Ashton to West Yellowstone, MT. Another new state day, and we will be in Montana for several more days. I had a nice scenic ride today, but hurried along because I could see storm clouds building. I was the first rider into West Yellowstone and missed all but a little rain. Most of the others got dumped on with torrents of rain and large hail. It's good to miss the storms.

Teton Range from Idaho

Friday 7-9 day 66 - 84 miles 3105 total, Jackson to Ashton, ID. A new state day for a day, and ugh what a day. I started the day out with a wrong turn and went 4 miles off route before realizing my mistake. I got back on route and was confronted with a 5.5 mile 10% grade climb over Teton Pass. Later was caught out in the open in a rain/hail storm with marble to pea size hail - ouch!What was supposed to be a difficult 70 mile day turned into a tough 84 mile day. I slept very well that night.

Top of Teton Pass

Million Dollar Cowboy Bar - Jackson

Ray, James and Bill at Snake River Brewing Company

Hydration is important to a cyclist.

Cycling Along The Spectacular Tetons

2010-07-08T10:48:00.000-05:00

Wednesday 7-7 day 64 - 43 miles 3021 total miles. Colter Bay to Jackson. This was the coldest morning of the trip. There was frost on the table and the shorts James had hung out to dry were stiff. The sun arose and warmed everything up. Sunny day, little wind, mostly downhill ride into Jackson and drop dead gorgeous views of the Tetons made this the best day I have had on a bike so far! We now have a layover day in Jackson Wyoming.

Kayaks at Jenny Lake

The Cathedral Group

Grand Teton and cyclists

Reflections in Jackson Lake

BetterBill and Mt. Moran

Tuesday 7-6 day 63 - 65 miles, 2978 total miles. Dubois to Colter Bay over Towgotee Pass. There is construction on top of the pass that kept traffic to one lane. The construction people actually loaded our bikes up into pickups and drove us 4 miles up and 4 miles down to avoid traffic delays. I was a little disappointed in not being able to cycle over the top, but did save time and leg. There was a great view of the Teton Range on the downside of the pass.

Snake River Pale Ale another local beer that must be sampled.

Teton Range backdrop from Togwotee Pass

Pinnacle Butte

Monday 7-5 day 62 - 80 miles, 2913 total miles. Lander to Dubois, 50 miles of nice ride to Crowheart, then 30 miles of the worst headwinds of the trip - tough day! I guess if you have the Wind River Mountains on the right of you and the Wind river on the left, you should expect wind.

These guys were Strutting their stuff along the road 5 miles out of Lander. Where they came from and why they were strutting in mid July is a complete mystery to me, but there they are.

One last shot from the Cowfish Brewing Company in Lander.

Lander 4th of July Parade

2010-07-04T16:05:00.000-05:00

Lander throws the best 4th of July parade I've ever participated in. The entire town and then some turn out. Following are just some of the fine shots I got:

4 wheel bike

Beauty Queens

ACA on parade

The Unicyclist!

ACA on parade

BetterBill rides!

At the post parade picnic:

This young couple supplied the buffalo for the buffalo brats.

Dancing Dogs

Into Wonderful Wyoming

2010-07-04T15:15:00.000-05:00

Saturday 7-3 day 60 - 58 miles 2833 total, Jeffery City to Lander. Another great day on a bike. Wind has subsided and the first 20 miles uphill led to the rest down. Wyoming is full of beautiful, grand desolation.

Beaver Creek Vally and Wind River Range

Friday 7-2 day 59 - 70 miles 2775 total, Rawlins to Jeffery City. Nothing memorable through this area except Split Rock Historic Site on the Oregon Trail. Had a fierce headwind the last 20 miles and a storm came up just as we arrived. The motel in Jeffery City is the worst we have stayed in so far, but I was glad to be there.

Jack, our fearless leader is back on the bike.

Antelope

Pretty cactus flower

Thursday 7-1 day 58 - 48 miles, 2705 total, Saratoga to Rawlins. There seems to be no way to get to Rawlins from Saratoga without a brief stint on Interstate 80. The 13 miles were on it was very nasty. This is the only time on the tour we are on an interstate, thank goodness. We camped at a very nice RV park in Rawlins, but a fierce wind/rain storm with 40+ mph winds about blew us off the hilltop. Except for a few anxious minuets everyone came through it just fine. Lost no tents.

Cowboys working the herd

Ranch with mountains

Wednesday 6-30 day 57 - 69 miles, 2659 total miles. Walden to Saratoga, Wyoming, a new state day, only three to go. Just another day in paradise. There is no way to appreciate this terrain from a car on an interstate, it must be experienced close and personal like on a bike. This evening I had the best Ice Cream and Shake on the trip so far at Lollypops Ice Cream Parlor in Saratoga.

Breakfast at the Moose Creek Cafe - Walden, CO

Tuesday 6-29 day 56 - 62 miles 2588 total miles, Hot Sulphur Springs to Walden. Rode over Willow Creek Pass and the Continental Divide at 9621 feet. A very scenic and enjoyable ride. A typical late afternoon thunderstorm disrupted dinner, but didn't last long. That night the temperature dipped down to 41 degrees in the tent - chilly!

Willow Creek Pass

Barn and mountains

Monday 6-28, day 55 - 78 miles 2526 total miles, Breckenridge to Hot Sulphur Springs. Another great day on a bike! I took a wonderful bike path from Breckenridge to Silverthorne stopping in Frisco fro breakfast at the Butterhorn Bakery, best breakfast on the trip so far. Then it was a mostly downhill ride through the Blue River and Colorado River valley. Spectacular scenery and great riding.

More From Breckenridge

2010-07-04T14:31:00.000-05:00

A few more parting shots from Breckenridge, CO:

Mort getting ready for some prospecting

Beauty is everywhere

View from my balcony

Over The Top In Colorado

2010-06-27T11:59:00.000-05:00

Sunday 6-27 day 54, layover day in Breckenridge. Adventure Cycling Association buys lunch!

Frank, ACA board member and guide in center wearing blue jeans.

Saturday 6-26 day 53 - 25 miles, 2448 total, Fairplay to Breckenridge. Hoosier Pass is the continental divide and the highest point on the tour at 11,542. From Fairplay it is a 12 mile climb, but only the last 4 miles are very difficult. Making it to this point is a milestone of the tour. Everyone made it and we all gathered for a group photo. To Breckenridge it was a 12 mile downhill blast, steep, but not so steep that I had to ride the brakes. It took me 2 1/2 hours to make the climb, but only 40 minuets to get down.

The whole dang gang!

BetterBill is over the top!

Mort and James reach the top

Bryn and Amber are winners!

It's Olaf - The Germans are coming!

Alma - a neat town at the base of Hoosier Pass.

Friday 6-25 day 52 - 68 miles 2423 total miles, Royal Gorge to Fairplay. One of if not the toughest day of the trip. Lots of climbing especially the first 35 miles over Current Creek pass at 9,404 feet. Long stretch of no services and a difficult headwind the last 20 miles. In Fairplay we again found a wonderful Italian restaurant, Millonzi's, in a very unexpected place.

Current Creek Pass 9404 feet

Thursday 6-24 day 51 - 18 miles 2355 total Canon City to Royal Gorge. This was supposed to be a rest day, but the group needed to get closer to Fairplay to avoid an ugly 75 mile day on Friday. It being only an 8 mile ride I went the wrong way out of Canon City and turned 8 miles into 18. My friend Dave Moshner came to visit me. We had a very nice lunch and a trip to the Gorge. I enjoyed the visit even though Royal Gorge is a tacky tourist trap.

Dave on the bridge

Wednesday 6-23 day 50 - 54 miles 2337 total miles, Pueblo to Canon City. Before leaving Pueblo we participated in their Bike To Work Day with a breakfast downtown and a police escorted 2 mile ride through their beautiful downtown. They have a great cycling community and I am looking forward to a return visit to this city.

The route to Canon City was a scenic byway and a very nice ride. After a nice downhill we lunched in Florence at the Aspen Leaf Bakery. It was a real treat. I am beginning to believe there are lots of wonderful places in this country if we would just slow down we will find them. This was another good day on the bike.

Tuesday 6-22 day 49 - 62 miles 2283 total. Ordway to Pueblo. Well tailwinds don't last forever and today we paid for them. Headwinds most of the day, worse still was the 8 miles we rode on busy highway 50 into Pueblo. It was 101 degrees and way to hot to camp so we stayed in a motel. Close to the motel was the Great Divide Bike Store. Most of us stopped there for supplies or services and were very happy with the service and expertise we received. In fact we were all very impressed with the entire town.

Monday 6-21 day 48 - 62 miles 2232 total, Eads to Ordway. A great day to be cycling, mostly flat, cool morning and a great tailwind. Stayed at the Ordway Hotel, one of the big surprises of the trip. It was clean, neat, charming, quaint and tastefully decorated in southwestern style. Owned by Tom and Carol Campos, Tom is a trained chief and fixed diner and breakfast for all of us. We ate like kings!

Relaxing in the Ordway Hotel: Lee, Bryn, Jack and Amber

Sunday 6-20 day 47 - 58 miles 2170 total, Tribune to Eads, Colorado. Entered Colorado, s new state day is always a milestone. The day was unremarkable with a long stretch of no services. Left Tribune in the cool of the morning and arrived in Eads shortly after noon with 99 degree high. It's good to get the cycling in in the morning.

Mort Declares Kansas Is Flat!

2010-06-23T21:48:00.002-05:00

This is a partial posting for the past 9 days. I'll post the rest in a few days. The tour is now in Royal Gorge Colorado.

Saturday 6-19 day 46 - 47 miles 2112 total. Scott City to Tribune. Our last day in Kansas and a great one it was. Cool and overcast in the morning with a nice east tailwind and only 47 miles, almost like a rest day. We've been very lucky with the weather in Kansas. Only one ugly day, Thursday, no rain since Newton, and even a tailwind some of the time.

Fixing a flat. One fixer - 2 supervisors.

Friday 6-18 day 45 - 57 miles 2065 total. Ness City to Scott City. The day began much as yesterday ended with headwinds, but they soon shifted out of the north, then after lunch a great tailwind for the last 20 miles.

I'm a sucker for old barns and found these two along the way.

Thursday 6-17 day 44 - 66 miles 2008 total miles. Larned to Ness City. Mort declares that Kansas is even flatter than flat! Today we hit a hard earned 2000 mile mark. Visited Fort Larned National Historic Site, the best preserved Indian fort in the U.S. This is a must visit for any history buff. Our tour guide, Zack, was very knowledgeable and a great guide. The fort was complete with all the supplies, uniforms, ammo, and things necessary to run an Indian fort. It was really amazing and time well spent. The rest of the day went downhill. Tough 30 mph head winds and near 100 degree temps made this one of the hardest days of the trip. We were all happy when it was over.

Wednesday 6-16 day 43 - 54 miles, 1942 total. Sterling to Larned. Mort declares Kansas is even flatter than he thought yesterday. This was a real grunt of a day, 50 miles with no place for water, food or people.

Kansas icons Wheat, Oil and Hay

Trike Bikes

Tuesday 6-15 day 42 - 62 miles total miles 1888. Newton to Sterling. Mort declares Kansas is flat. Wonderful day to be on a bike: cool morning, 82 degree high, partial tailwind 10-15mph. With cycling easy I had time to look around and get some good photos:

Lunch at the Mustard Seed Coffee Shop in Buhler Kansas, a wonderful place.

Amber, Robert, Mort, Bryn, Lee, Olaf

Nice restored pink Studebaker

Old Chevy truck behind the restoration shed.

The News From Newton

2010-06-14T14:18:00.000-05:00

Monday 6-14 Layover day in Newton. We now have a 9 day stretch with no layover days. Next posting will probably be from Royal Gorge, CO.

Lee, Olaf, Robert in the Flint Hills

Sunday 6-13 day 40 - 74 miles 1752 total miles. Eureka to Newton. Ten miles into the ride the skies opened up and we were drenched for about 10 minuets, then it just rained for another 20. For most of the rest of the day ugly clouds threatened, but nothing happened. We did get a great wind out of the east tailwind for the last 20 miles into Newton. Actually a good day to be on a bike, most of it was through the Flint Hills.

Photo of a long train on the horizon with an ominous roll cloud above it.

Heard of cattle with roll cloud.

Saturday 6-12 day 39 - 64 miles 1752 total. Chanute to Eureka. Entered the beautiful Flint Hills today. The Europeans on the trip rushed to Eureka so they could watch the World Cup ~~soccer~~ football game between The United States and England. The game was an exciting 1 to 1 tie. WOW?

Friday 6-11 day 38 - 61 miles 1688 total miles. Pittsburg to Chanute, a no granny gear day. The first of many I hope. The wind was out of the south 10 to 20 MPH, but the route was east to west so it was a side wind most of the day. I rode in an eight man pace line and averaged 13.5 mph, my fastest of the trip yet. Flat is fast! Installed my new bike computer today.

Ahh Kansas! Its good to be home.

2010-06-10T09:23:00.000-05:00

With the tip a little more than a third over here are some random interesting pictures that I have not posted yet. Enjoy.

Wednesday 6-9 day 36 - 70 miles today 1627 total. Ash Grove to Pittsburg, Kansas. Overnight in Ash Grove we had sever storms: heavy rain, wind, lightening, but no damage to tents. We started the day with clouds and rain but ended with a great tailwind and sunshine in Ahh Kansas! What a great place for a layover day.

Lunch was in Golden City at Cooky's Cafe where they have the best pie on the route - certified.

Tuesday 6-8 day 35 - 50 miles today 1557 total. Marshfield to Ash Grove, MO. Another tough day. The Ozark hills are relentless as any in Kentucky or Virginia. I have begun st hate the downhills because I know they just mean another steep climb. Saw some very unusual clouds today along with beautiful Purple Cornflowers.

Monday 6-7 day 34 - 65 miles today 1507 total. Huston to Marshfield, MO. Cloudy, cool, sprinkles at times with just enough hills to remind me we are still in the Ozarks. With not a bar in town we are staying at the city park (no alcohol allowed) we're sneaking beers like a 16 year olds.

Nice view of the Ozarks

Sunday 6-6 day 33 - 43 miles today 1442 total. Eminence to Huston, MO. Five hilly miles to Alley Springs and a long steep pull out of the valley and the rest of the ride was only moderately hilly. With a nice cool north breeze it was a good day to be on a bike.

Mov'n on in Missouri

2010-06-05T12:04:00.000-05:00

Alley Springs near Eminence, MO

Friday 6-4 day 31 52 miles 1399 total miles. Lesterville to Eminence. This may have been the hardest day of the trip with many up and down long hills, and hot and humid. Brother Bob has meet me here in Eminence and we're staying at the Shady Lane hotel. I've been looking for Crab Cakes since Williamsburg, VA with no success. Finally here in the middle of the Ozarks they were on the menu at Ozark Orchard Restaurant. They were actually pretty tasty. While here I got a haircut at the best damn barbershop in Eminence, maybe anywhere, Comb's Barbershop. What a real treat.

Current River

Thursday 6-3 day 30 52 miles 1347 total miles. Farmington to Lesterville. After an unplanned detour to Pilot Knob some of us visited Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park. This would be a great place to spend the day exploring, swimming and picnicking. I spent about two hours there. The rest of the day had some big hills, but not too many. Camped in Lesterville on the Black River.

Wednesday 6-2 day 29 52 miles, 1295 total. Chester to Farmington, MO. I had another first today - a flat! Roofing nail through the rear tire. Oh well it had to happen sometime, actually the group had four flats today. Crossed the Mississippi River into Missouri today and more hills. After 35 miles of heat and hills with 10 more to go we came to a real oasis, Crown Valley Brewing Company tasting and sampling room. A great treat for a thirsty cyclist and a place I must come back to. For the last ten miles of the ride the road was not so straight, and if you're wondering, it's none of your damn business. The nights accommodations were in Al's Place TransAmerica Hostel. This is a superb place for bikers, with bunks, beds, linen's, kitchen, showers and bathrooms. It's a remodeled jail. A very good day for a biker.

Tuesday 6-1 day 28 55 miles total 1244 miles. Carbondale to Chester. Took the levee route a hot damn flat day of cycling. Most of the route was along the flood plain and levee system of the Mississippi River where we got our first look at the river. We had our first group casualty today: the Folts' Randy and Meg. The days were too long, too hard, and not what they expected. I hate to see them go, but if they we not having fun, its best. Chester, IL is the home of Popeye the Sailor Man.

Relaxing In Carbondale, IL

2010-05-31T13:05:00.001-05:00

To find yet different pictures and perspective of the trip visit Ambers Blog Check out her YouTube video of the thunderstorm.

Sunday 5-30 day 26 Dixon Springs to Carbondale 56 miles total 1189 miles. The most fun day cycling I've had on the trip so far. Many rolling hills that you can "sling shot" over. I'm still getting stronger and more accustomed to the grind - having more fun. Took a pleasant break at Grassy Lake State Park. Layover day in Carbondale is very welcome, my legs are getting sore also my behind needs a rest.

Olaf, Lee and Robert

Well look here, a Jayhawk in the middle of Illinois. They're everywhere.

Saturday 5-29 day 25 Marion to Dixon Springs State Park, 50 miles 1133 total miles. Crossed the Ohio river by ferry into Illinois, but we didn't loose the hills. Visited Cave in Rock State Park. Found our first real Saloon in Golconda, IL, the Sweetwater Saloon. Everyone was very friendly and bought us beers. There are ten miles still to ride, but who can resist free beer and fun banter!

Friday 5-28 day 24 Slaughter to Marion 31 miles - 1083 miles total. With all the excitement yesterday I forgot to mention that we hit the 1,000 mile mark, only 3,300 more to go. Today was an easy day albeit the hills seem to go only one way - up! We spent the night at the Baptist Church in Marion. It is the nicest indoor facility we have stayed in thus far, and maybe ever. Big rec room, great kitchen, showers, restrooms, all the comforts except wi-fi. The ice cream at the Marion cafe was delicious. I must eat more ice cream.

Downtown Marion

I won this Lockheed Martin jersey at a raffle by Garry and Beth Feltus

Disaster In Kentucky

2010-05-31T10:07:00.002-05:00

Thursday 5-27 day 23 Garry and Beth's Farm to Darryl and Kim Patton's Farm (Slaughter, KY). 81 miles 1052 miles total. Wow! what a day!! This has been the longest, hottest, bazaar and disastrous day on the tour. We suffered through 89 degree heat, humidity, hills, then rain, wind, lightening, hail, and then disaster! The day was scheduled to be a long one and everyone was rolling along nicely through lunch. We stopped at Hometown Proud IGA store in Utica Kentucky for lunch break when we noticed afternoon thunderstorms may be coming. With about 30 miles left in the ride the storm hit with lightening flashing all around, wind that flattened hay waiting to be mowed, rain coming down so hard the other side of the street couldn't be seen and marble size hail. Wonderful day to be on a bike! Everyone did find a garage, shed or roof to duck under , but we all got very wet. The storm lasted for about half an hour and we resumed the ride in a light rain. Unfortunately this was not the worst of it. With 22 miles left our leader, Jack, was attacked by one of Kentucky's infamous fierce wild dogs. The resultant crash left Jack with a broken collar bone, cracked ribs and numerous other scrapes and bruises. He must be off the bike for 4 weeks and the tour is in limbo. Arrangements have been made to Carbondale, IL, but after that things are uncertain. We spent the night with Jack's friend and ACA tour guide Darryl and Kim Patton. They were very generous hosts and an unmeasurable help to Jack.

(ps. I am posting this in Carbondale, IL and the plan for now is for Jack to follow the tour in his struck and keep us together and make arrangements that way until and unless ACA finds a replacement. It looks now like the tour will continue.)

Friendly couple on horseback. I wonder if their butt is any happier than mine?

Wednesday 5-26 day 22 Hodgenville to Feltus Holler Farm, Caneyville, KY. 60 miles, 971 total miles. The terrain was flat to rolling hills with the last 10 miles being very hilly, but a no walk day. Visited a very nice bike shop in Litchfield, KY and replaced the battery in my odometer. It worked for 1.11 miles! Guess it's not the battery. Spent the night at the farm of Garry and Beth Feltus, two Adventure Cycling Associates who are paying back and forward for the generosity of others. They were very hospitable and it was a wonderful night.

Garry and Beth Feltus

Happiness is seeing a full moon through my tent.

Jack with his buddy, BOB.

Leading the charge or bringing up the rear? Joe, Bryn, our leader Jack Pettry, and Amber.

Tuesday 5-25 day 21 Springfield to Hodgenville, 50 miles, 911 total miles. Hodgenville is proud of being President Lincoln's birth place, although he grew up in Illinois. I visited the area, but the shrine enclosing his log cabin was closed for renovation. This is agriculture and horse country and noticeably more affluent, but the dogs are still out there.

Monday 5-24 day 20 Berea to Springfield, 78 miles 861 total miles. Long hot dry day. I took two detours (lost my way) was chased by dogs and ran out of water, but all in all a good day. Hills are becoming smaller and country is more rolling and open. Had a good nights sleep at the Springfield Inn in a real bed.

This is tobacco country with lots of charcoal barns. They aid in drying and curing tobacco leaves.

Sunday 5-23 Layover day in Berea, KY. Michel shows off his portable bike cleaning tool - a toothbrush.

The Routine

2010-05-23T10:41:00.001-05:00

Sunday 5-23 day 19 layover day in Berea, KY. There is a routine most of us have fallen into: eat, ride, eat, sleep. It's time to start exploring more. This is the second day of sunshine - no rain, and my spirits have improved considerably. I am writing this blog from a McDonalds in Berea. The first one I have seen in 19 days. I guess the world is still out there. It's amazing how small mine is.

Saturday 5-22 day 18 Boonville to Berea - 52 miles 783 total miles. This seems to be a poor depressed area, but also very pretty. Many houses are little more than shacks, trailers, and houses piled high with junk, and the people reflect their living conditions. There are lots of 'bubbas' but most people are very friendly and curious about where we are from and where we are going and can't believe we are doing it on a bike. This morning I ran out of water in the middle of nowhere and no towns for miles. I stopped at a pretty little farmhouse where a lady was cutting some roses. She graciously offered water from a spigot and it was the best water I've had on the trip.

Friday 5-21 day 17. Hindamin to Boonville - 64 miles 731 total miles. Still some big climbs, but a shorter day than yesterday. More wild dogs. camped behind a church with one portapotty and one cold shower for 16 bikers!

Thursday 5-20 day 16. Breaks to Hindamin, Kentucky - 73 miles total 667. Crossed into Kentucky today and it seems like it should be a milestone, but we have many more to go. Kentucky's motto should be "The Wild Dog State" I don't know where they all come from, most of the just bark, but some actually try to get ya. Long tough day with big climbs followed by a strenuous push up to the Hindamin Historical Society where we camped. Dave was very hospitable with iced tea, beer and ice cream sunday for dessert. Naturally it rained overnight.

Wednesday 5-19 day 15. Rosedeale to Interstate Breaks State Park - 44 miles 594 total. A nice ride spoiled by 3 walks. A killer hill began the day and 3 big climbs finished it. Then it rained. We are three miles from crossing the border, tomorrow it is on to Kentucky. I've biked across Virginia while my nose ran. Photo is taken from Breaks Park, I'm sure there is a state border down there somewhere.

Tuesday 5-18 Day 14, Damascus to Rosedale - 38 miles 550 total miles.

The first three miles were the most scenic of lands the trip. Through farm lands with quiet streams and rivers with old barns and mills. Then a sever 3 mile 8% upgrade that I thought would never end. That evening we shared accommodations with Fred and Barbara, 76 and 74 years young and married 54 years. They are from Australia and cycling the TransAm on a tandem. What a great couple and inspiration for all of us. Oh yes, it rained.

Damascus, VA

2010-05-17T13:29:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I screwed up posting this blog. I did it in reverse order so that the 12th

day is last and the 7th day is first, but you'll figure it out.

To get a different perspective of the trip and more "people" photos you shouds visti Bryns Blog: http://brynonabike.livejournal.com/ There are other blog links on the left side of this page.

Tuesday 5-11 day 7, Charlottesville to Afton. Only 29 miles today 251 total trip miles.
A short but difficult day. We stopped at Wyant's Store in Whitehall for breakfast and Chile's Orchard for the best fresh strawberry shake. From there we struggled over the hills in the rain to Afton and the "cookie lady" June Curry is a legend for hospitality on the TransAm route. We spent the night in her hostel which is a real TransAm bikers museum. Amber took lots of photos.

Wednesday 5-12 day 8, Afton to Mallard Duck campground. 43 miles today total trip 294.

This is billed as the toughest day of the trip, it is mostly on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is my third time cycling the Blue Ridge, and it will be my last. It is always tough and I wind up walking some of the longet steeper hills. Finished the last 5 miles in a thunderstorm. This is becoming a theme of the trip. Camped next to a babbling brook and had a good nights sleep.

Thursday 5-13, day 9, 46 miles today, 340 total miles. Mallard Duck to Camp Bethel.
The day started with a difficult climb, but then a dream ride next to pretty rivers and streems. The day was marred only by 2 different dog attacks. Stopped in Lexington (home of VMI) for coffee and a repair to my bike shoe cleats - one bolt $1.58. The photo above os of a waterfall on the Tye River. Rain in the morning, cloudy and cool all day.

Friday 5-14, day 10, 57 miles - 397 total miles. Camp Bethel to Christianburg.
The hardest day of the trip so far. Warm humid and very,very, very hilly. Pretty country, but I was not much interested in taking pictures. Tough day.

Saturday 5-15 day 11. 57 miles today 453 trip miles. Christianburg to Wytheville.

Breakfast at Famous Anthony's was better than cold cereal. We stopped for lunch at a small country store in Draper on the New River Bike Trail. Neat place. Still lots of hills. I don't know which day the above photo was taken, it could have been any day.

Sunday 5-16 day12. 59 miles 512 total miles. Wytheville to Damascus.

There was a steep 6 mile 1250 foot climb that we were about, but I had no trouble with it. I think I am getting stronger. After that there was a 15 mile downhill, the best coast ever. My favorite day of the trip so far despite the drenching we got. Mort for short in top photo and Olaf and Joe bottom photo on the dreaded 6 mile climb.

Damascus, a layover day, is a genuine outdoor town with the 'A' Trail , the TransAm route, a trout stream and a rafting river. Acomodations are in the city park and it's raining!

Charlottesville,VA

2010-05-10T17:16:00.001-05:00

Monday, May 10 day 6 Greetings from Charlottesville, VA. This is a layover day and much welcome. Legs and butt both need a rest. There is also time to organize our gear, do the wash, and clean the bikes. This is really a college town: University of Virginia designed by Thomas Jefferson. It is also the home of President Jefferson - Montecello.

At Left: Mort for short, Lee, Joe and Olaf

Sunday 5-9 day 5. 51 miles - 5:50 rtm - 11.1mph avg - 222 total miles, Hale farm to Charlottesville. The hills are getting harder and the country is becoming much more rural. There are plenty of horse ranchs here and fewer Battlefields. Got our first view of the Appalachias today - Ther're out there!

Top photo Camp at Hale Farm. Bottom photo nice sunset at Hale Farm.

Saturday 5-8 day 4. 62,75 miles, 5:24 rtm, 11.6 mph avg 171 total miles.

Ashland to Hales Farm. William Hale is a throwback to the 60's and so is his farm. Will grows organic rye, has solar powered hot water, and the place is down right funkie. Hale and farm are one. I'm not sure that this is the life for me, but the starry night sky was superb.

Campgrounds at KOA - Ashland.

Friday 5-7 day 3. 32 miles, 2:42 rtm, 12.0 mph, total miles 109. Glendale to Ashland. The campground was OK, but too close to a busy interstate. We are now in more central Virginia. It seems that every town, road and plantation has a battlefield attached to it. There has been much American blood lost in these fields.

Camp at Willis Church (Glendale) and curious tree smooth with seemingly no bark.

Thursday 5-6 day 2: 49 miles, 4:04 rtm, 12.0mph avg. Williamsburg to Glendale (Willis Church). This was a very enjoyable ride that was mostly on bike trails. Oh how I wish the rest of the ride would be like this!

Wheel Dipping - We're Off!

2010-05-05T21:22:00.001-05:00

Wednesday 5-5 28 miles, 2:14 ride time 12.7mph avg. Rode to Yorktown and dipped wheeles into Cheseapeak Bay (Atlantic Ocean). We are oficially off.

After the wheel dipping we had lunch served to us by the wonderful people at Grace Episcopal Church in Yorktown. They were very generous and meeting people like that is the reason many of us are doing this trip.

I have been asked many times why we are doing this trip from east to west. Here is the official American Cycling Association reason. The ride began in 1976 as a celebration of America's Bicentennial. America was settled from east to west and this recreates that adventure. Sounds good to me.

There is some serious bike repair going on here.

A statue of Pocahontis and an archeological dig of the original Jamestown fort/settlement.

Williamsburg Inn - Williamsburg, VA - not where I am staying, and a shot of some beautiful flowers in front of the Inn.

Loaded Up - Ready To Go

2010-04-29T20:15:00.005-05:00

Saturday I leave for Williamsburg, VA the ride begins Wednesday. I have packed and repacked, trained and trained some more and fretted over details way more than I should have. Finally the day is getting close. A little bit about training: I began on January 16, but January through March were dismal weather months. Finally April turned around and was very good for me.
Total number of training rides - 32.
Longest training ride - 60 fully loaded
Temperatures ranged from 28 degrees to 74 degrees.
Average training speed - 11.5 miles per hour.
Total training miles - 1250 miles - 700 of which were in April.

Everything that I will be living with for the next three months all on the family room floor. The panniers are empty and things that will be in them are aligned behind them. In the center is the handlebar bag that will have my camera and lenses then the items that ride on the back fender. You can view my complete packing list here.

Final version of the loadede touring bike. I'm ready to roll!

The next update will be from Virginia and the trip will have begun. I will be doing updates about twice per week depending on availability of internet connections.

Everyone has been very encouraging and supportive. The pressure is on, I feel I cannot fail.

Thanks,

Better Bill

Retirement Day!

2010-04-07T21:57:00.000-05:00

It has finally arrived. The long awaited retirement day. Now maybe I'll have time for some serious training rides. The folks at work were very generous with their send off, or maybe glad to see me go? Cake at the office, dinner at Boudreaux’s in St. Joseph, MO and post dinner gathering at the bosses house afterwards. It was much more than I expected. Big thanks to everyone.

On my Saturday training ride I happened across some horses feeding on a bale of hay in the middle of a field. I stopped and took a couple of snaps, but they were a little too far away for a good picture. I packed up my camera and was about to leave when they stopped feeding and hurried over to the fence as if to say "hey you haven't gotten our good side". They lined up at the fence and posed while I took another picture. As I was riding away they galloped along the fence with me. It was pretty cool.

Tailwinds to ya,
BetterBill

Lily white legs!

2010-03-31T20:58:00.002-05:00

Yehaw! finally a great day to ride. This is the first ride of the year that I did not need long pants and long sleeve shirt. Temps were in the upper 70's with mostly clear skies. There was a stiff breeze from the south, but the route I rode was east - west so it wasn't bad. Just had time for 22 miles, but there will be more good days ahead. Look past the lily white legs and arms and see the green grass and the nice daffodils blooming in the yard across the street.

The dream begins in 34 days.

Racks and Panniers

2010-03-07T21:26:00.001-06:00

58 Days till the dream begins!

This is my bike as it is now with all the racks, panniers and handle bar bag installed. I will carry tent, sleeping bag and pad above the rear wheel, but for training rides this will do.

Since my last posting the weather has improved at least enough for me to get some quality rides in. My total mileage for February was only 131 miles. This, the first week of March, I have ridden 105 miles including 50 miles on Saturday with all of my racks and panniers on the bike. I'll now start adding weight in my panniers up to about 45 lbs. while keeping my longer rides between 50 and 60 miles till April. After I retire on April 2nd I will be able to ride most days and get in some longer rides.

An update on fenders: I'll keep them. I've gotten used to the occational rattle and they sure save the bike and me from some nasty spray.

Better Bill

My Big Map

2010-02-18T21:19:00.000-06:00

This is a large map I keep on the wall in my office at home. The pins represent places I have visited to indulge my outdoor activities of bike, paddle, climb, hike, and run. The red string is the route that our group will be taking on our cross country ride. Before I leave I will remove the string and then my wife can reattach it to the pins and thus track my progress.

February so far has been a pathetic month for training. Cold, snow, wind and no break in the temperature. I have only logged one 30 mile ride. I may have to travel south on weekends to find some warmer weather.

BetterBill

New Shoes

2010-01-31T21:17:00.000-06:00

Did I mention that when I bought my new bike I got new shoes also? These shoes can actually be walked in. My road bike shoes have a very stiff carbon fiber sole that makes energy transfer to the pedals very efficient, but they're not good at all for walking around in. The new ones also have a stiff sole, but it is made of a rubber that gives a little. Also the cleats are recessed in the sole so it is a more natural look. I doubt that anyone will mistake them for hiking shoes, but they're more practical for touring.

On todays ride I dug out the Pearl Izumi AmFib booties and wore them - no frozen toes. It was a little warmer than yesterday with temps in the mid 30's, sunny with light winds - 5 mph maybe. Miles today - 31, total for January - 84 miles.

Fenders?

2010-01-30T20:58:00.000-06:00

Went for a ride today, only 16 miles. With temps in the 20's I froze my toes, but the sun warmed my heart all the way through. This was the first ride since adding fenders. You know what about fenders? They rattle. I think with racks and panniers I'll be protected from road spray so I'm not sure that I'll keep the fenders. I'll leave them on for now, but stay tuned.

Rock Chalk Jayhawks!
BetterBill

New Fenders

2010-01-24T16:20:00.001-06:00

This week I added Planet Bike fenders to my Surly. Fenders are optional, but after riding in the yuk last week I decided to add them. I did not get out for a ride this weekend and am feeling guilty. Saturday was a perfectly good day for a ride with temps around 50, but grand daughter was in town for a dance performance, and I used the afternoon to take down the Christmas lights still on the house. Oh yes, basketball - KU wins again! Sunday was cold and windy. I must get on a regular training schedule soon!

BetterBill

Bike Basics

2010-01-21T21:53:00.000-06:00

The attached photo is of me on my new bike just after a 22 mile ride. I used the 10 second timer and I was moving a little as the camera snapped, but it's OK and I was cold. It was about 36 degrees on the ride and my toes got a little cold, but that's all. The other pictures are of new things I have added: my comfy Brooks B17 saddle, a bag for patch kit and such stuff, a cute little Jayhawk sticker and two bottle cages. Hope your day was as good as mine.

BetterBill

The Bike

2010-01-21T21:33:00.000-06:00

This is my new bike. The one I will be peddling cross country this summer: a Surly Long Haul Trucker. I purchased it 1/16/2010 from Cycle Works in Lawrence Kansas, an authorized Surly dealer. The pictures here are not the best. I brought the bike home and just snapped a few pictures while watching the KU game. I then went for a short 15 mile ride. Over the next few weeks I will be adding things like racks and panniers to carry gear and other accessories.I'll keep taking pictures as things change.

The Dream Begins

2010-01-17T22:22:00.001-06:00

It's getting late. I'll go to bed, dream some, and finish this post tomorrow.

Betterbill