Lessons Learned from Training

In the trip kit that we received from America by Bicycle they wrote:

"The fantasy of crossing the country on a bicycle and the reality of doing are two different completely different things."

I have definitely been in fantasy mode a bit and now that I am just a few days away from the start - reality is setting in.  I hope that I remember and put into practice everything I have learned in training.  So here is a list of what I feel will be the keys to a successful trip.  ( I wonder when I look at this list in 7 weeks if I will feel the same way.)


1.  Hydrate...Hydrate...Hydrate

2.  EAT (often and before you get hungry - otherwise it may be too late)

3.  Get a professional bike fit (it will change your biking life)

4.  Lots of Chamois Cream (Believe it or not - probably the #1 topic of conversation when people find out I am doing this trip)
5.  Always unclip from your pedal BEFORE you stop (Otherwise you will ALWAYS fall - I know this from lots of personal experience)
6.  Wind can be your best friend or your worst enemy
7.  Sunscreen
8.  Slow and steady will get me to where I need to be (This is a bike tour, not a bike race)
9.  Carry bike tools (Yes, I have actually used my tools - shocking - I know!)
10. Enjoy the ride!

Tomorrow:  The eve before I leave