Summing up

My start point McLean VA,
May 4, 2013

Total Distance: 4’110mi (6’614km)

Total elevation gain East (VA, KY, IL, MO): 78'931ft (24'058m)

Total elevation gain West (CO, WY, MT, ID, OR): 74’295ft (22’645m)

Longest Stage: 125mi (Stage 31)

Shortest Stage: 45mi (Stage 38)

Stages 100mi and more: 13

Stages 50mi and less: 5

Average mi/day: 85.5 mi (141km)

Riding time incl. stops: 345hrs

Average speed: 12mi/hr (19km/h)

Total Calories: 213’174

Average riding time per day: 7hrs20min

I have accomplished what I set out to do and cycled across America coast to coast unsupported. I rode from McLean, VA to Florence, OR as planned within 50days. I began by cycling from McLean to Charlottesville where I caught up the original TransAm trail. I finished by riding on from Eugene to Seaside at Florence, OR. Total distance cycled between the extreme points of McLean and Seaside was 4’110mi. Total time between these places was 47 consecutive riding days (no rest days at all). I ‘hitchhiked’ approximately 110mi due to unpredictable and severe weather or closed roads. I was not always very lucky with the weather. I had many days of headwinds but also a few with tale wind. It was never either too hot or too cold. The wind had also its positive side as it cooled me down during the hot and sunny days. There were times, notably in eastern Kansas, when I took advantage of favorable winds to ride double stages. If the winds had been blowing the other way, as they might have been, or if I had declined to exploit them, I would not have gone so far so quickly at certain stages. I had no illness or injury throughout the ride except for a saddle sore, which for some reason never responded entirely to treatment for the entire journey. May be a rest day or two would have helped... I never had a shortage of energy caused by not eating or drinking enough. I found the ride physically less arduous than I expected. The training I did six month before my departure turned out to be adequate. Mentally the ride for me was more demanding, as expected, due to the fact that I was mostly riding by myself and this 85mi average per day. However, I maintained a positive frame of mind throughout and never experienced a psychological low point. I am also happy that I can say that my bicycle has been wonderfully reliable. A great coaster for a Mountainbike. I have had two puncture and did not use the spare tyre I carried with me. The only maintenance I conducted was to pump up the tyres every few weeks and a little check-up in Pueblo. I checked the firmness of the tyres every morning and occasionally checked the tightness of the bolts. My GPS receiver (Garmin Edge 810) was an important ‘companion’ but the ACA maps are still indispensable.

I stayed overnight mostly in Motels, one night at a Baptist Church and one night a former Jail. I have been asked which part of the trip was the highlight for me. I find the question difficult to answer. I have been living so much in the moment. Each day has brought its own new wonders and challenges. I haven't had time to think back. Later I will read through my blog and perhaps that will enable me to see the trip as a whole and identify the best parts. Undoubtedly, however, one of the main things I will take away from the trip is the memory of the many people I met, cyclists and non-cyclists, Americans and non-Americans. I experienced countless instances of friendliness, generosity, and helpfulness. I feel privileged to have met so many good people and thank them all sincerely. Motor vehicle drivers too were almost always courteous and gave me as much room as they could on the road. I am very grateful to the many people who have supported my ride through my blog – THANK YOU!

I am very happy to fly back home on Saturday to be with my wife Veronique and our kids Jil & Ewan again. It has been a long journey without them and I am relieved by knowing they have managed their every-day life and besides supporting me every day - I LOVE YOU!

My end point Florence, OR - Pacific coast, June 19, 2013