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 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!
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 best part of this video for me was you speaking of the people along the way. I was both smiling and tearing up at the same time. People being good is really great. Thank you for sharing.
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.
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.
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’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!
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.
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
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 !
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.
Fresh food! I lucked into a farmers market truck during it’s narrow 4 hour bi-weekly window in a small town, and loading up on plums, carrots, pears, and apples was mega. Made all the difference for that day and the next. What a huge boost to morale and energy, making destroyed legs much more tolerable.
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.)
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!
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.
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.
Great video! Glad you had a safe trip. My tips after three times across U.S. bicycling. Clothes, take one/wear one; eg pair of socks on feet, one pair in bags. Same with shirts, shorts, etc. Puff jacket, rain jacket, that's it. Dogs: small personal size pepper spray in front pocket, $12 at Walmart, dogs run across yard, spray in their direction when six feet away. Touring tires: instead of Marathon Plus, use Marathon Mondial, they are more supple and easy to remove. Three times across, two flats total, zero flats on Northern Tier route. Happy trails!
Great round up Francis👍. ....how can we forget those brilliant people along the way👏 best bar tape ever! 😉. Best intro jingle of 2022 anywhere om youtube! 🎺🎵. A very belated donation on its way.
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!!!
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.
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 a Revelate Designs Mag Tank top tube bag that is only a 1/3 the length of the top tube. Even that will hit my knees if I get out of the saddle to climb. I have found that a half frame bag like the Tangle is great, still fairly easy to get into and I can sit on my top tube at lights, which is great for commuting but probably not as big a deal on long distance touring. I can't wait to Tailfin to do frame bags. I love my AP20 trunk bag.
Congratulations on the trip and the fantastic amount you raised for Get Kids Going! I've watched bike content on RUclips for years. This was by far the best series I've ever spent time with. Thank you so much for sharing the 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.
Thanks for the useful information! I did a slo self-contained bike journey from Iowa, to Washington. D.C. in 2007. I agree with you that trailers with two wheels seem to handle better than single-wheel trailers. Best to you in your travels!
Thank you for posting this recap, and also for making the trip itself. I really hope you'll do more such trips across the US. I think you can get a visa with a longer stay permission if you plan in advance, but maybe being away from home for that long would be a bummer. THANK YOU SO MUCH for inspiring, seeing, and then showing the best side of Americans. We're no closer to perfect than anywhere else, and I think you did a really amazing job at drawing out our best sides. Watching you do this has really inspired me to try making longer, multi-day trips. Looking forward to your big news. I hope it is good.
@@lizziecade1902 hi there! since we last spoke, I sort of saw you in one of Francis' videos :) I went back to the very beginning and started watching and saw that he had you in one :) Hope you are doing well, and relieved to have the lads back on home soil!
@@DC-lu5qs Gosh! “10/10” for observation!👏 I don’t think anyone has ever spotted me in one of Fran’s videos! Was it in London or the Mauritius trip? Proud and somewhat relieved the boys are home safe and sound 😉 Seeing Francis very soon 🥰 Hope you and the DC family are keeping well? xx
@@lizziecade1902 It's the oldest video currently on this channel, at least that I can see. titled "Protest in London and Jungle FREERUNNING" at the very end :). Yes, we are doing great! Thank you!
Glad for the info about single wheel vs double wheel trailers, as I'm looking to get one (or the other). Also like that you included a bit about what you brought, most notably "you can buy stuff long the way". Yep, most any country you travel to you can buy basics like a shirt, pants, personal care products, even bicycle parts. No need to pack those and haul them on a trip.
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.
My tip: If air drag is more important than weight, go recumbent. A wedge shaped tail box to close the air behind you and reduce turbulence is the first improvement, because you can pull more air than you can push. Then a good fairing to open the wind in front of you. An Easy Racer Gold Rush is a great touring bike, but the Lightning P-38 is considered to be a faster bike. On a short wheelbase recumbent, I recommend front suspension because of the weight on the front wheel.
Francis! Great journey! Thanks for sharing it with us! Really a marvel to witness while it's happening. Glad it all worked out. The people bit was very nice to see. I've heard from many that do these kinds of rides like Audaxes and they say they always don't eat enough or they finally learned to eat right to feel right. Thanks for sharing the route. I think I'd take the scenic route and never make it to the hotel so good on you for sticking to the roads and dealing with the punctures. You guys rocked it so well. Can't wait to see what's next!
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.
Truly enjoyed following the series whilst your trip. Congratulations on your achievements and monies raised for such great cause. Thank you for filming & sharing.
I was going to ride with you and the group on your final route into Venice, but came down with a brutal flu! I was so upset when I saw what I missed. Hopefully next time. I watched every episode, and I am so glad you and Justin met many of the best people that America could offer during your amazing accomplishment.
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 ! 🇳🇿 😁 🌞 🚴♀️ 🇺🇸 🐕
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.
For towing the wheelchair, have you considered adding some form of aerodynamic faring to a trailer? You aren't really going to be able to get around the size of the hole you're punching through the air, but you can hopefully punch a smoother hole.
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?
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.
I still can't believe you made it all the way across this great country of ours eating gas station food. Amazing.
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 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!
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
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.
The best part of this video for me was you speaking of the people along the way. I was both smiling and tearing up at the same time. People being good is really great. Thank you for sharing.
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’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.
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
Ah that end tune hit me right in the feels. I guess I have been missing the positive content you provided us with!
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.
6:04 Loving the bike train. Bike> Trailer> Wheelchair> Recumbent
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’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!
You have good energy
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.
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.
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
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
I have done my fair share of wheelchair tire changes, they are roughhhhh, they always humble me lol!!
I'd love to get other videos with Justin and you, I really enjoyed the interactions you had on the trip
Excellent summary. I love the jingle at the end, too. The total is incredible, considering your first target was £15.000!
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 !
Greatest series ever on RUclips
Congratulations on completing the ride and raise a fortune for the charity.
🙇
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?
Fresh food! I lucked into a farmers market truck during it’s narrow 4 hour bi-weekly window in a small town, and loading up on plums, carrots, pears, and apples was mega. Made all the difference for that day and the next. What a huge boost to morale and energy, making destroyed legs much more tolerable.
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.)
biggest punctures i experienced on the cross country bike ride was from Semi truck tires that have reinforced tires when running over them.
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!
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.
Thank you Francis...for many things , but especially for showing the way ! And of course ....the music !
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.
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.
It was fun watching almost everyday and seeing the awesome places that Francis and Justin went. Very fun to watch for sure.
Great video! Glad you had a safe trip. My tips after three times across U.S. bicycling. Clothes, take one/wear one; eg pair of socks on feet, one pair in bags. Same with shirts, shorts, etc. Puff jacket, rain jacket, that's it. Dogs: small personal size pepper spray in front pocket, $12 at Walmart, dogs run across yard, spray in their direction when six feet away. Touring tires: instead of Marathon Plus, use Marathon Mondial, they are more supple and easy to remove. Three times across, two flats total, zero flats on Northern Tier route. Happy trails!
Strava Heatmaps & Routes by the Adventure Cycling Association are great resources to find bike safe routes cross country
Yay, “Pump Action Francis” in full flow! I’ve missed that!
I miss my daily dose of 2 bikes + 1 wheelchair so I'm now watching your trip across Australia :)
I have the same Burley two-wheel trailer and totally agree!
Great round up Francis👍. ....how can we forget those brilliant people along the way👏 best bar tape ever! 😉. Best intro jingle of 2022 anywhere om youtube! 🎺🎵. A very belated donation on its way.
Great video! Thank you!
For your next tour across America, you should do a northern route, Portland, Oregon to Portland Maine. 😎
excellent - have been using a small top tube bag for a while and agree it is so convenient.
Ahhh !! That Outro !! Perfect...
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!!!
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.
Good info on the two-wheel trailer
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.
That jingle never gets old now.
I have a Revelate Designs Mag Tank top tube bag that is only a 1/3 the length of the top tube. Even that will hit my knees if I get out of the saddle to climb. I have found that a half frame bag like the Tangle is great, still fairly easy to get into and I can sit on my top tube at lights, which is great for commuting but probably not as big a deal on long distance touring. I can't wait to Tailfin to do frame bags. I love my AP20 trunk bag.
Congratulations on the trip and the fantastic amount you raised for Get Kids Going! I've watched bike content on RUclips for years. This was by far the best series I've ever spent time with. Thank you so much for sharing the adventure.
Fantastic learnings for your next adventure!
Amazing!!! Great Work!!! I will do a ride like this when I retire for sure!!!
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.
Really well done. Glad you enjoyed your time over here on the other side of the pond.
Thanks for the useful information! I did a slo self-contained bike journey from Iowa, to Washington. D.C. in 2007. I agree with you that trailers with two wheels seem to handle better than single-wheel trailers. Best to you in your travels!
Great video! So so good! Informative, educational and fun! It looked like you enjoyed the journey.
Thanks
Thank you for posting this recap, and also for making the trip itself. I really hope you'll do more such trips across the US. I think you can get a visa with a longer stay permission if you plan in advance, but maybe being away from home for that long would be a bummer.
THANK YOU SO MUCH for inspiring, seeing, and then showing the best side of Americans. We're no closer to perfect than anywhere else, and I think you did a really amazing job at drawing out our best sides.
Watching you do this has really inspired me to try making longer, multi-day trips.
Looking forward to your big news. I hope it is good.
🙋♀️Hello DC Dan x
@@lizziecade1902 hi there! since we last spoke, I sort of saw you in one of Francis' videos :) I went back to the very beginning and started watching and saw that he had you in one :) Hope you are doing well, and relieved to have the lads back on home soil!
@@DC-lu5qs Gosh! “10/10” for observation!👏 I don’t think anyone has ever spotted me in one of Fran’s videos! Was it in London or the Mauritius trip?
Proud and somewhat relieved the boys are home safe and sound 😉 Seeing Francis very soon 🥰 Hope you and the DC family are keeping well? xx
@@lizziecade1902 It's the oldest video currently on this channel, at least that I can see. titled "Protest in London and Jungle FREERUNNING" at the very end :). Yes, we are doing great! Thank you!
Glad for the info about single wheel vs double wheel trailers, as I'm looking to get one (or the other). Also like that you included a bit about what you brought, most notably "you can buy stuff long the way". Yep, most any country you travel to you can buy basics like a shirt, pants, personal care products, even bicycle parts. No need to pack those and haul them on a trip.
All round genuine and honest! Thanks
Nice summary of just how insane your trip was. Truly an experience to be treasured, thanks for sharing with us
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.
Francis, I began watching your videos some time ago, and I followed you and Justin each day as you rode across the US.
You both are an inspiration!
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.
Thanks for the debrief !
Really hope you'll do one again, that was verry enjoyable !
Take care, rest and will be there for the next videos !
thanks cade and cade media team for the tips and advice!
My tip: If air drag is more important than weight, go recumbent.
A wedge shaped tail box to close the air behind you and reduce turbulence is the first improvement, because you can pull more air than you can push. Then a good fairing to open the wind in front of you.
An Easy Racer Gold Rush is a great touring bike, but the Lightning P-38 is considered to be a faster bike. On a short wheelbase recumbent, I recommend front suspension because of the weight on the front wheel.
Francis! Great journey! Thanks for sharing it with us! Really a marvel to witness while it's happening. Glad it all worked out. The people bit was very nice to see. I've heard from many that do these kinds of rides like Audaxes and they say they always don't eat enough or they finally learned to eat right to feel right. Thanks for sharing the route. I think I'd take the scenic route and never make it to the hotel so good on you for sticking to the roads and dealing with the punctures. You guys rocked it so well. Can't wait to see what's next!
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.
Truly enjoyed following the series whilst your trip.
Congratulations on your achievements and monies raised for such great cause.
Thank you for filming & sharing.
That music at the end - loved it.
so inspiring from a philanthropic and bikepacking perspective
interesting , i was thinking of buying a trailer for summer bikepacking trip . good to know that two wheels are better .... !!!
'El Chile Verde' sneaked in again 😀
I was going to ride with you and the group on your final route into Venice, but came down with a brutal flu! I was so upset when I saw what I missed. Hopefully next time. I watched every episode, and I am so glad you and Justin met many of the best people that America could offer during your amazing accomplishment.
Man, what a memory, well done again!
And just as I thought I miss that bike packing jingle from your vids you play it at the end.
What an amazing journey, going to watch that whole series
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.
Oh wow ! Haven't been following Francis for a long time, but this sounded like an amazing adventure and his tips were really good.
the ending ... probably the last time your subscribers will hear that jingle! looking forward to your next adventures!
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 ! 🇳🇿 😁
🌞
🚴♀️ 🇺🇸 🐕
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.
Looking it up, there are 16 states that allow use or some use of bikes on interstate highways. That's not quite most.
Amazing guys! I enjoyed watching your journey across the USA, I learned a lot along the way, Well done!
Great video, great cause. I'm conveniently also in the middle of planning my trans-American route right now, so this had some solid advice.
When are you guys going to come over and do ragbrai?....the ride cross Iowa...
Could you mod a tandem, remove stoker cockpit and cranks but use the mount points for. Wheel chair carry mount.
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
For towing the wheelchair, have you considered adding some form of aerodynamic faring to a trailer? You aren't really going to be able to get around the size of the hole you're punching through the air, but you can hopefully punch a smoother hole.
Good to see you back in the Toon, Francis 🙌🏻
How is the standover with the full-length top tube bag? Can you have both feet on the ground without crushing your parts?
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?
Great video, as always. Good to see you back at home. What an epic voyage. Truly impressive.
Awesome job!!! Looking forward to your next adventure!
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.
The top tube bag tip is so helpful. I've been looking at getting one for my bike as I think it would work better than a saddle bag or a handlebar bag.
Welcome back
Good to see you home safe. As with most travel, it ends up being the people that are a big part of it
Keep the money flowing for the kids
$200K? Wow that's way more than... omg! That's absolutely amazing!!!
Also, totally buying a top tube bag