Tour Divide

Yeah I see that, but I don't count wearing out bikes parts whilst riding bikes as an expense. It's a necessary part of my life, like food. I just thought the event itself might prove to be stupidly expensive for reason(s) I'd not considered.

Mate keeps bugging me to ride the TransAm but I'm not sure I'm into the self-sufficiency/bike-packing way of life enough for that kind of undertaking. I can't wait to see some reports from your race.

Yeah, I am taking music on my phone, just in case. But I have become really good and going completely blank in my head when I'm riding all day. It's a kind of meditation I guess, not getting caught up in fears, worries, self pity, self loathing, homesickness, etc. It all comes to mind, but I've got pretty good at letting it pass without getting hold of me.

Lovely account of what cycling, in some small way, is probably doing for us all.

Good luck Gabes.

Yeah, TransAm looks great, but you've gotta be happy to hobo for even longer, though I guess you'll get a lot less muddy. I watched Inspired to Ride a while back (global online premier), it's out soon though http://www.inspiredtoride.it/ Was a good insight into the TransAm race. It's very similar to the divide, just less muddy. Though Kansas looks like a piece of shit. 200 mile dead straight road with 30-40mph headwind and dusty as hell. F That!

As for wearing out bike stuff, yes, it's just like eating, or running a car, you're right. Main expense has been new bike, and all the kit. And flights are nearly a grand.

Thanks @Skülly! Long time no see. Will try to get up to London later in the year for some beers!

Last year I remember listening to some phone in reports from the entrants on an American podcast, have you signed up for that? (I think it was mtb.cast?)

Yeah, I'll have a look at that. Kansas sounds like where I'll attack :)

Flights to US were probably the most expensive thing for us last year.. oh unless you count my Vegas drink bills :D

Last year I remember listening to some phone in reports from the entrants on an American podcast, have you signed up for that? (I think it was mtb.cast?)

I think we're just given a number at the start, but I doubt I'll use it. Best bet is to follow me on trackleader.com and instagram, which I'll post to when I'm having a 3 main course diner lunch somewhere with a reception.

Do you haz twitter? Instagram >>>

Twatter. No. But I might set it up before then, maybe.

Do it. No one uses instagram anymore... trust me...

trust me...

Funniest thing I've heard all day!

Missed my calling..

Sudocream & Bepanthen are good as barrier creams but if you get sores/redness then Metanium works really well at clearing it up. Usually sorts out my daughters nappy rash within a day. Might be worth considering :)
#dadknowledge

I'll buy you at least one.

I'll buy you at least one.

Cheers! Think I need to come to town just to claim some free beer!

Don't forget to bring your bike with you.

Don't forget to bring your bike with you.

So you can steal it?

I know I'm a 'convict' but, no, I want a look at it, maybe take a spin. See what this mtb bike packing thing is all about. One day I might seriously think about TransAm and need to hit you up for advice.

Was kidding. Yeah, I'll probably ride it up anyway. Maybe in August/September... Will consult some beer drinking experts (@ ) as to where's best for a big piss up. Somewhere central-ish.

Why would I know anything about drinking? Racist.

The Lamb. Always.

I have not been to the Lamb for EVER. This sounds awesome. There used to be good turnouts out front. #nostalgiamode

The Lamb on Lamb's Conduit St? Yes. I love that pub and haven't been there in at least 5 years.

There's another Lamb?

There's another Lamb?

I don't know! I don't even live in London any more.