I am so glad that I got meet you 2 and I can’t wait to make it to Europe and ride with you all over there. I do miss getting up and seeing this series though. You did a masterful job. Justin rightly described Larry as a Bad Ass Welder. Well, you two are Bad Ass bike tourers, film makers, and all around amazing humans! It was a pleasure to meet you both!
I followed the whole odyssey daily and loved it. You and Justin are truly inspirational. My son is autistic and I am seeking ways to get him on a bicycle. Currently, I have an ebike with a back seat that can handle his full grown man weight. It does make handling very interesting, but he loves it back there. Thanks so much for raising awareness for special needs cycling. I am a bit short at the moment, but will contribute asap.
Cycling is one of the most autism friendly sports there is, once you overcome the balance issues (if any, I had them when younger) and the hyperfocus too far ahead, it's a great opportunity to socialize in small amounts and plus it could become a very good special interest. if your son is easily startled or annoyed with loud noises, I would recommend foam earplugs and a cycling cap that goes over the ears. And be supportive but not pushi. Best of luck
@@JPWack thanks for your perspective and for sharing that. My son isn't real high functioning. His communication skills are minimal. He seems to be okay with noises - he used to be more sensitive but I think he's gotten used to it as he's gotten older. One of the reasons why I have him on the back of my bicycle is for his balance development. I did have a big beach cruiser single speed with humongous training wheels that could support him. However, he never did get the pedaling down. I figure I'll start with balance first and then maybe we'll move on to a low powered bike to assist him with the pedaling.
@@williamsmothers8830 yeah, balancing while pedaling is complicated AF if you think about it, a lot of coordination is involved. Patience and love for you two
@@williamsmothers8830 If you get into a position where it will work for you, there are a range of tandem options available once he is ready to pedal. Enjoy your cycling!
@@fr3heart I've looked at tandems but I haven't found one yet that allows the passenger to pedal at a separate cadence. Are you aware of such a transmission?
I’ve casually watched your channel for a while and thought it has been good but not always enough to grip my attention all the time. I have to commend you this series and this trip. I might be a new regular convert to “sticking in there longer” and “maybe I’ll watch that first” type channel. This adventure was amazing. And I would say that your storytelling has stepped up quite a lot on this! I admire the the journey you guys set on, loved the mission and awareness. And seeing how everyone came together and joined along on this is a special sense of community that is amazing. I know it had to be a fun adventure for you guys, but even more seeing the community rally around such an incredible task and become a part of it must have been an incredible joy to be at the center of. Keep up the great attention to detail on your editing and storytelling. It’s becoming one of the lead cycling channels IMO!
I’ve done two XC USA trips, and your info is spot on. Your nutrition plan is immensely important, and you’ll get an ungodly amount of punctures. Especially if you’re on busy roads, because of those thin strips of wires (inner casing of 18-wheeler tire carcasses).
I find those little strips of wire in the most random of places, including roads or streets where big rigs are prohibited. I've always wondered where they came from.
The semi truck tire fragments you see on the road or on the side of the road are referred to as “road gators” and they are definitely a hazard. My dad was a professional cross country trucker for his whole adult working life and even in his massive truck he had to be cautious about those tire fragments.
Ghost Wires from car and truck tires. Hey, try Schwalbe Marathon Mondial tire instead of Marathon Plus. The Mondial is lighter, more supple, and easier to remove. I used them on three trips across and got two flats total.
Honestly I think the point about the people is what I've found from my very limited experience of bike packing plus watching this is how people want to help or just talk to you about the journey, also after hauling the trailer for months I bet Francis is an absolute unit on the bike now
It's refreshing to see positivity in and towards Americans. On a global scale, many Americans act like entitled idiots, but we're not all that way. I have helped and been helped with bike issues multiple times, and it's great to know that it is more common than not. Riding on the shoulder of an interstate is sketchy, American drivers are way to distracted and in general drive way too fast for the conditions. I'm glad to see you didn't have an issue, and thank you for posting this video
Could we request a things 'Justin' learnt vlog as it would be interesting to know his experiences. It would also be great if you guys could visit the charity 'get kids going exclamation mark' who you raised money for so we can learn more about their work. Is there any opportunity to do a crowd funder to buy Justin a new bike, it just seems inappropriate that he has to incur the full cost while raising money to help others?
To be fair, was that handbike not the proper choice for a journey of that distance? I enjoyed watching your videos of Justin and you riding across the USA. I have been a viewer since your ride up the west coast of America with James and Lawrence. Within the last few years I have been riding extended distances, with my last ride upto Georgia and back to Clearwater Florida (515 miles) accomplished right before you began your venture across America.
Francis, I've been watching your videos for a long time now, and I believe your draw can be summed up in one word. Grace It's an underrated word, not understood by everyone who uses it. Your humbleness, your gratitude, you're recognition of the best of your friends and situations, is extremely refreshing. The avoidance of things political, and your open attitude toward people you've never met before, is a prime example of how we could all live in peace.
Indeed. On the final day I joined the ride through Los Angeles. As we rode through downtown I pulled alongside Francis to congratulate him and Justin on their awesome achievement. Francis immediately asked my name, and reached out to shake my hand. At the finish in Venice, Francis barely took time to celebrate - he was too busy saying "thank you" to everyone as though we were the ones who deserved recognition. As you say - humbleness, gratitude, and a genuine interest in other people.
Where's the exclamation point in the name of the charity? You forgot it! LoL Loved the whole series and donated (to the charity with the exclamation point).
My son has mobility issues and finding suitable bikes and / or trailers opened my eyes to how expensive equipment for people with disabilities actually is.
I certainly overpacked when I left on my cross country trip, too much clothing, too many specialty items, but one thing I was really pleased that I brought was a tiny 1.5L pressure cooker. They aren’t that popular in the west, but if you visit India it’s pretty common piece of kit. It might seem like overkill, but being able to make nice food on demand got me in through some of the really remote places with sustenance (there’s literally nothing between Baker Nevada and Delta Utah). I made a lot of rice, dal, soups and curry in that thing, 10/10 would recommend for anyone doing a multi-week excursion.
IMO this is the best video you’ve ever done. BTW, I know of two hand cycle makers who do quality work. One is Coconino in Arizona, the other is One-Off Titanium in the northeast.
So perhaps unsurprisingly, a quick google search indicates that aero 2-wheel bike trailers are a thing. One by "Carbon Wacker" looks pretty sweet, though I have no idea if a wheelchair would fit inside.
White bar tape - I'd recommend Specialized Classic S-Wrap. So far, blood, oil and dirt have all wiped clean from mine on my race bikes for over 10 years or needed nothing more than a bit of WD-40 to wipe off :-) 10/10
Thank you Francis for sharing. I like your videos, informative , funny, entertaining and short. They don’t go on and on and on zzzz. This video was the first thing I watched after my dog died. I was really sad but you made me laugh, so thank you !
You keep mentioning cycling on the Interstate highways. I would like to clarify when you can use them. It is generally illegal to ride a bicycle on any interstate highway UNLESS there are no alternate routes, usually out west, in which case there will be signs posted to say that you can ride a bike on them. So the default is that you CANNOT ride your bike on the Interstate highway system, except in a few remote areas.
High speed roads sound scary, but it's the slow narrow roads that actually are scary. For one, the fast roads usually have much wider shoulders. If a car starts drifting off, you can hear them coming (seems to happen less often). On slower, narrow roads you get no warning, and a lot of drivers feel safer and drive more recklessly. I ride about 12,000 miles a year, a lot of my commute is on a wide, high speed road.
Some good things to know there, I've got a challenge round England in June (every county in 8 days, around 1100 miles), and will take note! If you're interested in joining at all (you'd be welcomed with open arms!), give me a shout - it's all for Muscular Dystrophy UK to help people like my son who suffer from this muscle-wasting condition.
Was a brilliant trip watching from my sofa and was much needed joy for me and for such a good cause. If you do plan something in the future maybe an aero trailer or a more foldable wheelchair. I did half expect Justins bike to just fall apart when you got to the Venice beach sign.
One thing to be taken, especially if feeling down, for any reason, is thinking what would Justin's reaction be in a bad situation ? Big grin, sharp rundown & that deep laugh ! New Zealand's got a vacancy for PM ! 🇳🇿 😁 🌞 🚴♀️ 🇺🇸 🐕
I always thought that bicycling on interstate freeways was illegal, so I looked it up. In most states it is illegal, but in few states it is allowed. So that is news to me.
It is the only way to get from Los Angeles to San Diego (for example). Unless you ride all the way inland. But the interstate 5 is the route down passing through Camp Pendleton (they allow bikes sometimes, but not right now).
7:00 I suppose if all else fails strapping some wind shell, like a jacket or smooth blanket over the trailer and cargo somehow without it getting anywhere near the trailer wheels and spokes you’ll gain a pretty significant aero advantage over it just being open and exposed as it was. Fantastic series, loved every episode of it and will binge watch it again at some point, like your other trips!
A hell of an achievement! It's amazing considering your enforced diet. Apart from what you both did the kindness of strangers really made me happy. Also noteworthy that your suntan seems to have vanished already.
16k for Justin’s bike is outrageous. There must be bike builders who would be interested in collaborating with someone of Justin’s cycling experience to make a bike which is much more accessible in price range.
I really enjoyed the series. I wanted to say as well that you inspired me in my decision on my new bike. I just bought a new 2022 model Scott addict 30. I threw out my back recently so I am not ready to put on the miles yet, but I am really looking forward to it once I am healed up, which should hopefully be soon. Loving the content man, keep up the awesome work.
It was amazing to watch your journey across the USA, you both did an amazing job, you should be so proud of your efforts, sounds like I should have sent you tube patches instead of cash 😂 very happy to support the great cause….
Wanna be more aero? Get a recumbent. Justin's bike was probably pretty aero, but Cruzbike V20 like mine in my profile pic (CdA = 0.200) or a Cruzbike S40 (touring) would make the trip much easier.
Congratulations on the trip and the fantastic amount you raised for Get Kids Going! I've watched bike content on UA-cam for years. This was by far the best series I've ever spent time with. Thank you so much for sharing the adventure.
Maybe I missed it, but did you use tubeless tires with slime sealant on your cross-country ride? I went across the US this past May and had incredible luck with Giant Gavia Fondo 1 tires with the Giant sealant. 3400 miles with no flats. All the punctures self sealed after a bit. And we were on some bad highways with tons of crap on the shoulders. A few times I just had to add some air. I think I was just very lucky but I have since gone to tubless tires on all my bikes.
Awesome video! 1. Riding on freeways is easy but gross. So much trash, noise, and bad smells. Spend the extra effort to take other roads. Better scenery and overall experience. 2. 100% on forcing yourself to eat. I tend to lose my appetite the 1st, 2nd, and sometimes even the 3rd day of a biking or hiking trip. If I don't force myself to eat in the early part of the trip, I bonk haaaard.. 3. Trailers: Pro: you get to a store, lock up the bike, and use the trailer as a shopping cart without the need to worry about someone nicking your stuff. Also, much much easier to pack and balance. Con: a lot more drag. 4. Panniers Pro: better riding experience overall. Cons: a pain in the rear to pack and balance. Difficult to secure when you're away from the bike. 4. Need to try frame bags! Bar bags are a must.
Hats off to you my friend! I’m from America living in London, and that is an epic ride. Kudos, bro. Texan all the way. Haha. OMG! I miss WHATABURGER!!!
I just randomly was recommend your video on my feed. I SWEAR I saw you guys riding in palm desert California on december 31st up the 74. May have I seen you??
"I would rather fix 3 punctures a day on an easy to remove tire than 1 a day on a Schwalbe Marathon Plus". Maybe, but with a Schwalbe Marathon Plus you won't be getting 1 flat a day. I rode across the US 3 times, the first on Continental Gatorskins and I stopped counting flats after around a dozen. The second and third trips I rode on Marathon Plus where I had only 1 flat on the second trip and ZERO flats on the third. Changing the Marathon Plus is really not that bad if you do it right by slowly going around the tire squeezing the bead into the center of the rim. Over and over. And don't fight with the tire. It just requires a lot of patience, and then some more patience.
Aero…think recumbents and trikes. Big Climbing may be slower, but watts are always less. Aero when it comes to trailers - make them aero. Fairings and shells. Good work dudes. Glad you got to enjoy flyover country.
I have to disagree with your evaluation of the bike trailers. One is not better than the other. They are different. If you are only riding on roads and staying in hotels, then a two wheeled trailer will likely suit your needs better. But, if your journey is more adventurous, uses more back roads, bike paths/trails and especially if you are wild camping: then a single wheeled trailer is a better option. Both have benefits and downsides and both will compromise how your bike works. As for a future solution to carrying the wheelchair? For a similar road based journey I'd consider an e-cargo bike. You can't get away from the fact that carrying the wheelchair is going to compromise your bike. You can't maintain the feel and speed you want, lugging a wheelchair. Carbon racing are just no good for hauling a big load. So lean into. Cargo bike is built for precisely that, will be stable, minimal effect on handling and the power assistance will get around the reduced speed and increased wattage requirements.
As an American, I want to apologize for my country’s food options considering it’s mostly junk food disguised as the humble hamburger and such. I can’t help but almost shit myself literally when I think about riding for hours on the interstate with McDonald’s digesting into literal death turds.
Waaaait wait wait wait wait wait. The LAPD shut down roads and escorted you on the last day? WHAT?!?! And now I have to go searching for that video. Surely there is one. I hope Justin gets a better bike.
Very dense fatty foods are a better way to get lots of energy than whole fruit. Whole fruit is full of water and fiber, which is more self limiting and will make you bloaty. You will know you're full, eating salami and cheese in abundance, but you will not get bloaty or uncomfortable the same way. (real) Salami is super energetic, very nutritious, and full of minerals and salt which your body will thank you for; furthermore actual salami is pack stable, you can ride with it for a very long time. Cool trip!
I thought I was the only one with the dog issue... went through Sicily in the fall and naturally chose the smallest roads. Mistake. Has anyone any useful tips? Google says standing still and letting them sniff you... not an option when a guard dog jumps over the fence to chase your or street dogs chase you with 40 kph...
It's truly disheartening to see how broken the food system has become. A big reason I dislike living in the U.S. - our government & healthcare system profits off of the poor health of its citizens. There are many great things about a capitalist society, but protecting and caring for its citizens is not one of them, at least not how the U.S. has set up its system.
3 west coast to east coast rides here. (One northern, one middle, one southern) Also up and down both coasts. 31 states so far. I'm confused by your mention that marathon plus is hard to remove. I only need one tire lever. I've ridden pretty much all the tires there are over a looooong cycling career. Marathon plus is by far the least maintenance. Enlighten me.
Now, if they would link up a linear trail across the country, you could stay off the roads all the way! I wouldn't do this on roads. Too dangerous. People drive cars like a bunch of knuckleheads.
Damn Wish I d seen this. You rode right by my parents place. I'd have had them make you a meal and some goodies for the road. I'm gonna be down there tomorrow the 6th for a week...pooooop....lol
Single wheel trailer but the steering pivot needs to be just in front of the rear tyre contact patch. That is tow arm pivots on an attachment on a rear rack. Axle mounted yolk with steering pivot behind rear wheel is dynamically unstable.
Lots of bike videos worrying about reducing equipment by the weight of a few feathers. Good to hear the honesty of weight doesn't matter. (It does but not as much as other things.)
Yeah, I can guess what it was like riding that trike so low to the ground through rural areas, especially places like Kentucky or Tennesee which are known for loose and aggressive dogs.
Frankly, I think Gatorskins are overrated. I repeated the mantra and used them myself, and sold them to others for years and years, but I got as many punctures riding them as I did all the other tires I ever rode.
Justins bike and your trailer should really have a basic fairing on them, this would help smooth the airflow and reduce aerodynamic drag. For Justin this could just be his lower legs, though I am also sure it might like a face Fairing to stop the crude from the road, for the trailer this would just cover the front of it to help direct the airflow over and around it rather than having multiple bungy strap, wheels, spokes, wheel chair seat, hitting the wind individually. Of course you would also want to try and reduce the low pressure zone behind the trailer as well, the question is if you know any aerodynamicists to model you!
There's a contraption which converts a wheelchair into a handy handcycle. They are sold in the Netherlands as an option for people with limited mobility.
Welcome home guys. Epic and memorable adventures are based on many factors - lasting impact for you personally, bonding with others on the same journey, meaningful engagement with locals, meeting challenges, and experiencing and surviving hardship. I've done many 2 week trips that fulfilled those but yours not only trumped those but did so for a worthy cause. Superb. I did donate, but I'll still buy you a coffee any time. And, though I've said it before, you live in a cycling heaven here in the north.
I am so glad that I got meet you 2 and I can’t wait to make it to Europe and ride with you all over there.
I do miss getting up and seeing this series though. You did a masterful job. Justin rightly described Larry as a Bad Ass Welder. Well, you two are Bad Ass bike tourers, film makers, and all around amazing humans! It was a pleasure to meet you both!
You made our trip possible, thanks so much Sean!
I've never missed a youtube series as much as this one!
I followed the whole odyssey daily and loved it. You and Justin are truly inspirational. My son is autistic and I am seeking ways to get him on a bicycle. Currently, I have an ebike with a back seat that can handle his full grown man weight. It does make handling very interesting, but he loves it back there. Thanks so much for raising awareness for special needs cycling. I am a bit short at the moment, but will contribute asap.
Cycling is one of the most autism friendly sports there is, once you overcome the balance issues (if any, I had them when younger) and the hyperfocus too far ahead, it's a great opportunity to socialize in small amounts and plus it could become a very good special interest.
if your son is easily startled or annoyed with loud noises, I would recommend foam earplugs and a cycling cap that goes over the ears. And be supportive but not pushi. Best of luck
@@JPWack thanks for your perspective and for sharing that. My son isn't real high functioning. His communication skills are minimal. He seems to be okay with noises - he used to be more sensitive but I think he's gotten used to it as he's gotten older. One of the reasons why I have him on the back of my bicycle is for his balance development. I did have a big beach cruiser single speed with humongous training wheels that could support him. However, he never did get the pedaling down. I figure I'll start with balance first and then maybe we'll move on to a low powered bike to assist him with the pedaling.
@@williamsmothers8830 yeah, balancing while pedaling is complicated AF if you think about it, a lot of coordination is involved. Patience and love for you two
@@williamsmothers8830 If you get into a position where it will work for you, there are a range of tandem options available once he is ready to pedal. Enjoy your cycling!
@@fr3heart I've looked at tandems but I haven't found one yet that allows the passenger to pedal at a separate cadence. Are you aware of such a transmission?
You’ve got to let us know how Justin is doing now that you guys are back in blighty. I’m looking forward to your big news.🥰😍❤️
I still can't believe you made it all the way across this great country of ours eating gas station food. Amazing.
I’ve casually watched your channel for a while and thought it has been good but not always enough to grip my attention all the time. I have to commend you this series and this trip. I might be a new regular convert to “sticking in there longer” and “maybe I’ll watch that first” type channel. This adventure was amazing. And I would say that your storytelling has stepped up quite a lot on this! I admire the the journey you guys set on, loved the mission and awareness. And seeing how everyone came together and joined along on this is a special sense of community that is amazing. I know it had to be a fun adventure for you guys, but even more seeing the community rally around such an incredible task and become a part of it must have been an incredible joy to be at the center of.
Keep up the great attention to detail on your editing and storytelling. It’s becoming one of the lead cycling channels IMO!
Ah that end tune hit me right in the feels. I guess I have been missing the positive content you provided us with!
I’ve done two XC USA trips, and your info is spot on. Your nutrition plan is immensely important, and you’ll get an ungodly amount of punctures. Especially if you’re on busy roads, because of those thin strips of wires (inner casing of 18-wheeler tire carcasses).
I find those little strips of wire in the most random of places, including roads or streets where big rigs are prohibited. I've always wondered where they came from.
The semi truck tire fragments you see on the road or on the side of the road are referred to as “road gators” and they are definitely a hazard. My dad was a professional cross country trucker for his whole adult working life and even in his massive truck he had to be cautious about those tire fragments.
Ghost Wires from car and truck tires. Hey, try Schwalbe Marathon Mondial tire instead of Marathon Plus. The Mondial is lighter, more supple, and easier to remove. I used them on three trips across and got two flats total.
Honestly I think the point about the people is what I've found from my very limited experience of bike packing plus watching this is how people want to help or just talk to you about the journey, also after hauling the trailer for months I bet Francis is an absolute unit on the bike now
It's refreshing to see positivity in and towards Americans. On a global scale, many Americans act like entitled idiots, but we're not all that way. I have helped and been helped with bike issues multiple times, and it's great to know that it is more common than not. Riding on the shoulder of an interstate is sketchy, American drivers are way to distracted and in general drive way too fast for the conditions. I'm glad to see you didn't have an issue, and thank you for posting this video
The jingle in the end! At first I kinda... did not like it AT ALL - by now I love and miss the daily dose of it. Good tune.
Could we request a things 'Justin' learnt vlog as it would be interesting to know his experiences. It would also be great if you guys could visit the charity 'get kids going exclamation mark' who you raised money for so we can learn more about their work.
Is there any opportunity to do a crowd funder to buy Justin a new bike, it just seems inappropriate that he has to incur the full cost while raising money to help others?
Excellent summary. I love the jingle at the end, too. The total is incredible, considering your first target was £15.000!
Strava Heatmaps & Routes by the Adventure Cycling Association are great resources to find bike safe routes cross country
To be fair, was that handbike not the proper choice for a journey of that distance? I enjoyed watching your videos of Justin and you riding across the USA. I have been a viewer since your ride up the west coast of America with James and Lawrence. Within the last few years I have been riding extended distances, with my last ride upto Georgia and back to Clearwater Florida (515 miles) accomplished right before you began your venture across America.
They talked about Justin having another bike being prepped but not done in time. I really want to see that one and the differences it could have made.
Suicidal in traffic is what it is.
I would absolutely love to see Justin's version of this "top 10 things I learnt". I bet it would have a lot of overlap, but still.
Francis, I've been watching your videos for a long time now, and I believe your draw can be summed up in one word.
Grace
It's an underrated word, not understood by everyone who uses it.
Your humbleness, your gratitude, you're recognition of the best of your friends and situations, is extremely refreshing. The avoidance of things political, and your open attitude toward people you've never met before, is a prime example of how we could all live in peace.
hear, hear
Indeed. On the final day I joined the ride through Los Angeles. As we rode through downtown I pulled alongside Francis to congratulate him and Justin on their awesome achievement. Francis immediately asked my name, and reached out to shake my hand. At the finish in Venice, Francis barely took time to celebrate - he was too busy saying "thank you" to everyone as though we were the ones who deserved recognition. As you say - humbleness, gratitude, and a genuine interest in other people.
@@stephenturkLA ❤x
I want to ride the bike trail that is being built right now that goes coast to coast! This will be a game changer for us.
For your next tour across America, you should do a northern route, Portland, Oregon to Portland Maine. 😎
Awww no mention of the Vardemans. I would have paid £9 - £16 for one…
they get a dedicated episode
with jimmy Wilson
@@Cade_Media the episode where we get matching tattoos? 🤪
@@Cade_Media would prefer one with Betty
@@MyLouTube I've already done my part here Lou, I'm waiting to see the pictures of yours 🤞😉
I've always preferred a busy road with a wide shoulder over a less busy road without a shoulder.
I don't know about that one, chief.
Where's the exclamation point in the name of the charity? You forgot it! LoL Loved the whole series and donated (to the charity with the exclamation point).
My son has mobility issues and finding suitable bikes and / or trailers opened my eyes to how expensive equipment for people with disabilities actually is.
I miss my daily dose of 2 bikes + 1 wheelchair so I'm now watching your trip across Australia :)
How is the standover with the full-length top tube bag? Can you have both feet on the ground without crushing your parts?
I certainly overpacked when I left on my cross country trip, too much clothing, too many specialty items, but one thing I was really pleased that I brought was a tiny 1.5L pressure cooker. They aren’t that popular in the west, but if you visit India it’s pretty common piece of kit.
It might seem like overkill, but being able to make nice food on demand got me in through some of the really remote places with sustenance (there’s literally nothing between Baker Nevada and Delta Utah). I made a lot of rice, dal, soups and curry in that thing, 10/10 would recommend for anyone doing a multi-week excursion.
I feel this way about an electric kettle
@@GordonChaffin really?! Now I’m curious…what food did you make with it, did you use it to rehydrate dry goods?
IMO this is the best video you’ve ever done. BTW, I know of two hand cycle makers who do quality work. One is Coconino in Arizona, the other is One-Off Titanium in the northeast.
So perhaps unsurprisingly, a quick google search indicates that aero 2-wheel bike trailers are a thing. One by "Carbon Wacker" looks pretty sweet, though I have no idea if a wheelchair would fit inside.
White bar tape - I'd recommend Specialized Classic S-Wrap. So far, blood, oil and dirt have all wiped clean from mine on my race bikes for over 10 years or needed nothing more than a bit of WD-40 to wipe off :-) 10/10
It was fun watching almost everyday and seeing the awesome places that Francis and Justin went. Very fun to watch for sure.
I'd love to get other videos with Justin and you, I really enjoyed the interactions you had on the trip
I have done my fair share of wheelchair tire changes, they are roughhhhh, they always humble me lol!!
6:04 Loving the bike train. Bike> Trailer> Wheelchair> Recumbent
$200K? Wow that's way more than... omg! That's absolutely amazing!!!
Also, totally buying a top tube bag
Thank you Francis for sharing. I like your videos, informative , funny, entertaining and short. They don’t go on and on and on zzzz.
This video was the first thing I watched after my dog died. I was really sad but you made me laugh, so thank you !
You keep mentioning cycling on the Interstate highways. I would like to clarify when you can use them. It is generally illegal to ride a bicycle on any interstate highway UNLESS there are no alternate routes, usually out west, in which case there will be signs posted to say that you can ride a bike on them. So the default is that you CANNOT ride your bike on the Interstate highway system, except in a few remote areas.
There were a lot of signs on our route and correct, there was often no other option
2 1/2 months of being on the side of a road with high speed traffic? Quite frankly, it’s a wonder you survived. My palms sweat thinking about it.
High speed roads sound scary, but it's the slow narrow roads that actually are scary. For one, the fast roads usually have much wider shoulders. If a car starts drifting off, you can hear them coming (seems to happen less often). On slower, narrow roads you get no warning, and a lot of drivers feel safer and drive more recklessly.
I ride about 12,000 miles a year, a lot of my commute is on a wide, high speed road.
Not sponsored by Coke, McDonald's or Greggs.
You forgot sourpatch kids
But 100% sponsored by dollar general
Did you already give the Garmin away?
I loved getting up every morning to you guys, it made the day just that much better. Cheers guys
Great video! Thank you!
Some good things to know there, I've got a challenge round England in June (every county in 8 days, around 1100 miles), and will take note! If you're interested in joining at all (you'd be welcomed with open arms!), give me a shout - it's all for Muscular Dystrophy UK to help people like my son who suffer from this muscle-wasting condition.
Was a brilliant trip watching from my sofa and was much needed joy for me and for such a good cause. If you do plan something in the future maybe an aero trailer or a more foldable wheelchair. I did half expect Justins bike to just fall apart when you got to the Venice beach sign.
One thing to be taken, especially if feeling down, for any reason, is thinking what would Justin's reaction be in a bad situation ?
Big grin, sharp rundown & that deep laugh !
New Zealand's got a vacancy for PM ! 🇳🇿 😁
🌞
🚴♀️ 🇺🇸 🐕
I always thought that bicycling on interstate freeways was illegal, so I looked it up. In most states it is illegal, but in few states it is allowed. So that is news to me.
It is the only way to get from Los Angeles to San Diego (for example). Unless you ride all the way inland. But the interstate 5 is the route down passing through Camp Pendleton (they allow bikes sometimes, but not right now).
7:00 I suppose if all else fails strapping some wind shell, like a jacket or smooth blanket over the trailer and cargo somehow without it getting anywhere near the trailer wheels and spokes you’ll gain a pretty significant aero advantage over it just being open and exposed as it was.
Fantastic series, loved every episode of it and will binge watch it again at some point, like your other trips!
the ending ... probably the last time your subscribers will hear that jingle! looking forward to your next adventures!
Not all heroes wear capes but tights maybe.
Thank you Francis...for many things , but especially for showing the way ! And of course ....the music !
A hell of an achievement! It's amazing considering your enforced diet. Apart from what you both did the kindness of strangers really made me happy. Also noteworthy that your suntan seems to have vanished already.
Time to start engineering a hand bike that you pull a lever and it converts into a wheelchair.
16k for Justin’s bike is outrageous. There must be bike builders who would be interested in collaborating with someone of Justin’s cycling experience to make a bike which is much more accessible in price range.
i would like a followup on Justin's bike, how it's repaired or if he gets a new one : p
I really enjoyed the series. I wanted to say as well that you inspired me in my decision on my new bike. I just bought a new 2022 model Scott addict 30. I threw out my back recently so I am not ready to put on the miles yet, but I am really looking forward to it once I am healed up, which should hopefully be soon. Loving the content man, keep up the awesome work.
It was amazing to watch your journey across the USA, you both did an amazing job, you should be so proud of your efforts, sounds like I should have sent you tube patches instead of cash 😂 very happy to support the great cause….
Greatest series ever on UA-cam
Congratulations on completing the ride and raise a fortune for the charity.
🙇
Wanna be more aero? Get a recumbent. Justin's bike was probably pretty aero, but Cruzbike V20 like mine in my profile pic (CdA = 0.200) or a Cruzbike S40 (touring) would make the trip much easier.
Congratulations on the trip and the fantastic amount you raised for Get Kids Going! I've watched bike content on UA-cam for years. This was by far the best series I've ever spent time with. Thank you so much for sharing the adventure.
Maybe I missed it, but did you use tubeless tires with slime sealant on your cross-country ride? I went across the US this past May and had incredible luck with Giant Gavia Fondo 1 tires with the Giant sealant. 3400 miles with no flats. All the punctures self sealed after a bit. And we were on some bad highways with tons of crap on the shoulders. A few times I just had to add some air. I think I was just very lucky but I have since gone to tubless tires on all my bikes.
Fyi when you hang an American Flag vertically, the stars always go in the upper left.
Winner Winner (vegan) Chicken Dinner!!!!
Dude you're amazing.
And I wouldn't want a pushup-competition or armwrestle your friend.
I am totally blown away by the other guy, a fckn arm crank!!!!!!!
I've seen a couple of those at Ajo Bikes in Tucson throughout the years.
Nice summary of just how insane your trip was. Truly an experience to be treasured, thanks for sharing with us
Fantastic learnings for your next adventure!
Awesome video!
1. Riding on freeways is easy but gross. So much trash, noise, and bad smells. Spend the extra effort to take other roads. Better scenery and overall experience.
2. 100% on forcing yourself to eat. I tend to lose my appetite the 1st, 2nd, and sometimes even the 3rd day of a biking or hiking trip. If I don't force myself to eat in the early part of the trip, I bonk haaaard..
3. Trailers:
Pro: you get to a store, lock up the bike, and use the trailer as a shopping cart without the need to worry about someone nicking your stuff. Also, much much easier to pack and balance.
Con: a lot more drag.
4. Panniers
Pro: better riding experience overall.
Cons: a pain in the rear to pack and balance. Difficult to secure when you're away from the bike.
4. Need to try frame bags! Bar bags are a must.
Hats off to you my friend! I’m from America living in London, and that is an epic ride. Kudos, bro. Texan all the way. Haha. OMG! I miss WHATABURGER!!!
I just randomly was recommend your video on my feed. I SWEAR I saw you guys riding in palm desert California on december 31st up the 74. May have I seen you??
"I would rather fix 3 punctures a day on an easy to remove tire than 1 a day on a Schwalbe Marathon Plus". Maybe, but with a Schwalbe Marathon Plus you won't be getting 1 flat a day. I rode across the US 3 times, the first on Continental Gatorskins and I stopped counting flats after around a dozen. The second and third trips I rode on Marathon Plus where I had only 1 flat on the second trip and ZERO flats on the third. Changing the Marathon Plus is really not that bad if you do it right by slowly going around the tire squeezing the bead into the center of the rim. Over and over. And don't fight with the tire. It just requires a lot of patience, and then some more patience.
Aero…think recumbents and trikes. Big Climbing may be slower, but watts are always less. Aero when it comes to trailers - make them aero. Fairings and shells.
Good work dudes. Glad you got to enjoy flyover country.
this is a goal of mine to bike across america. looks like a fun and cool experience
I have to disagree with your evaluation of the bike trailers. One is not better than the other. They are different.
If you are only riding on roads and staying in hotels, then a two wheeled trailer will likely suit your needs better. But, if your journey is more adventurous, uses more back roads, bike paths/trails and especially if you are wild camping: then a single wheeled trailer is a better option.
Both have benefits and downsides and both will compromise how your bike works.
As for a future solution to carrying the wheelchair? For a similar road based journey I'd consider an e-cargo bike. You can't get away from the fact that carrying the wheelchair is going to compromise your bike. You can't maintain the feel and speed you want, lugging a wheelchair. Carbon racing are just no good for hauling a big load. So lean into.
Cargo bike is built for precisely that, will be stable, minimal effect on handling and the power assistance will get around the reduced speed and increased wattage requirements.
excellent - have been using a small top tube bag for a while and agree it is so convenient.
As an American, I want to apologize for my country’s food options considering it’s mostly junk food disguised as the humble hamburger and such. I can’t help but almost shit myself literally when I think about riding for hours on the interstate with McDonald’s digesting into literal death turds.
Waaaait wait wait wait wait wait.
The LAPD shut down roads and escorted you on the last day? WHAT?!?!
And now I have to go searching for that video. Surely there is one.
I hope Justin gets a better bike.
Very dense fatty foods are a better way to get lots of energy than whole fruit. Whole fruit is full of water and fiber, which is more self limiting and will make you bloaty. You will know you're full, eating salami and cheese in abundance, but you will not get bloaty or uncomfortable the same way. (real) Salami is super energetic, very nutritious, and full of minerals and salt which your body will thank you for; furthermore actual salami is pack stable, you can ride with it for a very long time.
Cool trip!
I thought I was the only one with the dog issue... went through Sicily in the fall and naturally chose the smallest roads. Mistake. Has anyone any useful tips? Google says standing still and letting them sniff you... not an option when a guard dog jumps over the fence to chase your or street dogs chase you with 40 kph...
It's truly disheartening to see how broken the food system has become. A big reason I dislike living in the U.S. - our government & healthcare system profits off of the poor health of its citizens. There are many great things about a capitalist society, but protecting and caring for its citizens is not one of them, at least not how the U.S. has set up its system.
3 west coast to east coast rides here. (One northern, one middle, one southern) Also up and down both coasts. 31 states so far. I'm confused by your mention that marathon plus is hard to remove. I only need one tire lever. I've ridden pretty much all the tires there are over a looooong cycling career. Marathon plus is by far the least maintenance. Enlighten me.
Now, if they would link up a linear trail across the country, you could stay off the roads all the way! I wouldn't do this on roads. Too dangerous. People drive cars like a bunch of knuckleheads.
Ahhh !! That Outro !! Perfect...
Hey Francis, that's the "Bay Bridge" at minute 7:33. I'm a big fan of your work, I wish I knew you were passing through.
11. Cycling across the US with heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker means you don't get mugged 😆
Damn Wish I d seen this. You rode right by my parents place. I'd have had them make you a meal and some goodies for the road. I'm gonna be down there tomorrow the 6th for a week...pooooop....lol
Single wheel trailer but the steering pivot needs to be just in front of the rear tyre contact patch. That is tow arm pivots on an attachment on a rear rack. Axle mounted yolk with steering pivot behind rear wheel is dynamically unstable.
Lots of bike videos worrying about reducing equipment by the weight of a few feathers. Good to hear the honesty of weight doesn't matter. (It does but not as much as other things.)
Wider and tubeless at 35mm - 38mm yet something supple like Rene Herse tires would have been a good option even for mostly roads.
Yeah, I can guess what it was like riding that trike so low to the ground through rural areas, especially places like Kentucky or Tennesee which are known for loose and aggressive dogs.
interesting , i was thinking of buying a trailer for summer bikepacking trip . good to know that two wheels are better .... !!!
Frankly, I think Gatorskins are overrated. I repeated the mantra and used them myself, and sold them to others for years and years, but I got as many punctures riding them as I did all the other tires I ever rode.
I don't give a damn how big the shoulder is, I have no desire to be riding that close to semi-trucks. But kudos to you for having the balls to do it.
Justins bike and your trailer should really have a basic fairing on them, this would help smooth the airflow and reduce aerodynamic drag. For Justin this could just be his lower legs, though I am also sure it might like a face Fairing to stop the crude from the road, for the trailer this would just cover the front of it to help direct the airflow over and around it rather than having multiple bungy strap, wheels, spokes, wheel chair seat, hitting the wind individually.
Of course you would also want to try and reduce the low pressure zone behind the trailer as well, the question is if you know any aerodynamicists to model you!
Don’t tell Justin that, he’s aero enough already!
Dear bro
Just a thought
Instead of using disabilities,
I suggest to use
Special needs
It may not matter
But it, thou
Just a 🤔
What travel bike bag are you using? Hard or soft case? I'm looking for recommendations.
There's a contraption which converts a wheelchair into a handy handcycle. They are sold in the Netherlands as an option for people with limited mobility.
Could you mod a tandem, remove stoker cockpit and cranks but use the mount points for. Wheel chair carry mount.
Fruit wise: what about powdered fruits? I always take dried blueberry powder, just mix with water :)
'El Chile Verde' sneaked in again 😀
biggest punctures i experienced on the cross country bike ride was from Semi truck tires that have reinforced tires when running over them.
When there is any tail wind, l seriously think Justin could have a sail...or have anyone experiment with that?
Welcome home guys. Epic and memorable adventures are based on many factors - lasting impact for you personally, bonding with others on the same journey, meaningful engagement with locals, meeting challenges, and experiencing and surviving hardship. I've done many 2 week trips that fulfilled those but yours not only trumped those but did so for a worthy cause. Superb. I did donate, but I'll still buy you a coffee any time. And, though I've said it before, you live in a cycling heaven here in the north.
And just as I thought I miss that bike packing jingle from your vids you play it at the end.