1
Routes / Re: Northern Tier + North Lakes (SS Badger Ferry)
« on: December 25, 2012, 09:50:52 pm »
I believe there is an alternative Ferry that leaves Milwaukee and heads over to MI.
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2
General Discussion / Re: New here and just getting into touring
« on: July 09, 2012, 04:20:23 am »
Dave,
Like you I entered the touring world after many years of not riding. I began with a supported five day tour across Wisconsin and decided I could do this myself. I now tour self supported throughout the region. Much of what I know came from this site. Welcome to the forum.
Like you I entered the touring world after many years of not riding. I began with a supported five day tour across Wisconsin and decided I could do this myself. I now tour self supported throughout the region. Much of what I know came from this site. Welcome to the forum.
3
Gear Talk / Re: Bar-end mirror & front down tube shifter?
« on: April 22, 2012, 12:22:53 pm »
Look around a bit. I have two bikes each with different mirrors. Here is one option: http://www.mirrycle.com/mirrycle_mirrors.php I use the Old Style for drop brake levers.
I also have a similar mirror that attaches to my drop using a velcro strip. Both work fine.
I also have a similar mirror that attaches to my drop using a velcro strip. Both work fine.
4
Routes / Re: Milwaukee, WI to Jasper NP
« on: April 19, 2012, 07:43:15 pm »
I live east of St. Paul/Minneapolis in West Central WI. It is the Prairie Farm area. Should you need a place to stay let me know.
In any case, my daughter and I toured into MN a couple of years ago. We crossed the St. Croix river at Taylors Falls and ran into the Northern Tier. From there we went on to Cambridge, Dalbo, Milaca, and west. In any case, we discovered a wonderful overnight bike hostel along that route. We did not stay there but did stop in to say hello. Maybe somebody here can give you better directions/information.
In any case, my daughter and I toured into MN a couple of years ago. We crossed the St. Croix river at Taylors Falls and ran into the Northern Tier. From there we went on to Cambridge, Dalbo, Milaca, and west. In any case, we discovered a wonderful overnight bike hostel along that route. We did not stay there but did stop in to say hello. Maybe somebody here can give you better directions/information.
5
Routes / Re: Brookings, South Dakota to New Haven, Connecticut --- June 1st - June 23rd
« on: March 28, 2012, 03:44:18 pm »
I also am planning a trip from the Black Hills back to WI. With all due respect to the OP, I am interested in knowing if Hwy 14 through MN is a good road with decent shoulders and what the traffic might look like.
6
Routes / Re: Eastbound route through South Dakota, Minnesota
« on: February 18, 2012, 08:07:26 pm »
Check your inbox Ted, as I supplied you with some information about how to contact me.
In looking at your WI leg, I am oh, 20 miles south of hwy 8. When you cross the St. Croix at Osceola, rather than head north and west, to get to my place you would head directly east on back roads. If it works out that I am able to host you I may simply ride over and I can guide your and your party to my farm. We can discuss that as time passes.
I will also take a closer look at your map and maybe offer some advise if you do not mind.
Joe
In looking at your WI leg, I am oh, 20 miles south of hwy 8. When you cross the St. Croix at Osceola, rather than head north and west, to get to my place you would head directly east on back roads. If it works out that I am able to host you I may simply ride over and I can guide your and your party to my farm. We can discuss that as time passes.
I will also take a closer look at your map and maybe offer some advise if you do not mind.
Joe
7
Routes / Re: Eastbound route through South Dakota, Minnesota
« on: February 12, 2012, 07:28:01 pm »Beginning early June I'll be riding from Astoria, OR to Bar Harbor, ME, by way of the Lewis & Clark to Missoula, then Glacier NP, Yellowstone, Bighorns, Black Hills, Upper Penninsula Michigan (North Lakes route), and the eastern portion of the Northern Tier route. South Dakota is new territory for me, so I'm looking for an eastbound route from the Black Hills through SD and Minnesota, with the idea of connecting with the North Lakes route at Osceola, WI (or some other point??). Scenic and interesting is more important than convenient and quick. Some dirt roads OK. All suggestions are welcome.
Thanks in advance,
Ted
Ted
I live in westcentral WI not far from Osceola, oh, 50 miles or so let's say.
I have a couple of friends who will be dropping me off in Rapid City, SD in September and I will be riding back home. So, I have an interest in developing the same route you are as well.
I had contacted the South Dakota Dept of Transportation and talked to the person in charge of bicycling for the state. This was a year or so ago and he did lay out a plan for me using the old hwy 12 which was replaced by I-90. At some point I could angle off into MN, cross that state and into MN at Osceola.
I would recommend you do contact them and get some fresh information. Then, as you plan your trip I would be more than happy to host a rest stop for you. I also traveled into the UP a couple of years ago and could provide some tips as well. Feel free to contact me via PM here and I will provide my phone number etc so we could talk. Good luck in planning your trip and let me know if I can be of service.
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Routes / Re: Lake Superior - Earliest/Best Time of Year
« on: July 30, 2011, 08:34:17 pm »
Good luck to you and your tour.
I leave this Wednesday to complete a 33 year old tour that did not happen. Yes, life got in the way.
I would suggest as you begin planning your tour you also consider mosquito's as a factor as well. Northern WI, MI and MN can be hell at certain times of the year.
Good luck and BTW - Your tour is on my list as well. I will though not wait 33 years for this one.
I leave this Wednesday to complete a 33 year old tour that did not happen. Yes, life got in the way.
I would suggest as you begin planning your tour you also consider mosquito's as a factor as well. Northern WI, MI and MN can be hell at certain times of the year.
Good luck and BTW - Your tour is on my list as well. I will though not wait 33 years for this one.
9
Routes / Logistics for the Lake Michigan Ferry-Manitowoc, WI to Ludinton, MI and back.
« on: July 12, 2011, 08:18:26 pm »
I am planning a tour from western WI to central MI. I plan on using the ferry to cross Lake Michigan.
I will be staying with family in Green Bay and will travel one day to Manitowoc. I doubt I would make the 1:55PM ferry so would have to wait for the 12:00AM one. Is there somewhere near the ferry to spend some down time? Same thing on the other side in Ludington. I am not sure if I would travel beyond Ludington as soon as I finish the crossing, and need a place to hang out or camp.
By chance are there parks near the ferry station that one could safely catch a nap?
I will be staying with family in Green Bay and will travel one day to Manitowoc. I doubt I would make the 1:55PM ferry so would have to wait for the 12:00AM one. Is there somewhere near the ferry to spend some down time? Same thing on the other side in Ludington. I am not sure if I would travel beyond Ludington as soon as I finish the crossing, and need a place to hang out or camp.
By chance are there parks near the ferry station that one could safely catch a nap?
10
Gear Talk / Re: Kona Jake vs Trek 520
« on: June 24, 2011, 08:53:14 pm »
Given the discussion on the difference between the two classes of bikes you are considering, add one more item to the mix.
You say there is a $400.00 difference between the classes. Figure out total miles you will ride, divide by 400 and you will know the cost per mile of the extra paid for the class of bike fitting the design.
Have fun on your tour.
You say there is a $400.00 difference between the classes. Figure out total miles you will ride, divide by 400 and you will know the cost per mile of the extra paid for the class of bike fitting the design.
Have fun on your tour.
11
General Discussion / Re: first time biking!
« on: June 22, 2011, 05:33:10 pm »
Check out Warm Showers and Couchsurfing as possible resources for overnight stays.
12
Routes / Bunk House on the Northern Tier in MN
« on: June 20, 2011, 05:26:34 am »
My daughter and I stopped here last year as we were passing through. Don gave us a tour of the place and told us of his plans to add some kitchen equipment and a shower. He did. Although we did not spend the night, we rode with a couple that had.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezcyY6BGlik
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezcyY6BGlik
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Routes / Re: Lake Michigan Circuit
« on: June 19, 2011, 06:04:39 am »I'm planning a ride around Lake Michigan. Any pointers for maps, stops, etc.?
You can purchase WI maps through the WI Bike Fed. Or, you can go to the WI DOT and find the same data organized by county. They are not as easy to use as you need to print off a map for each county you plan on traveling through.
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General Discussion / Re: Nightly Accomodations & Bicycle Traffic
« on: June 13, 2011, 06:30:22 am »
In small towns stop and greet the local police. Ask their advice. For showers stop at a campground or fitness center and ask if you can, "buy" a shower.
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General Discussion / Re: Cross Country Tour: Trouble with Lodging, what to do?
« on: June 11, 2011, 10:37:57 am »
In small towns approach the local police. Ask if you can stay in the local park. Next the Chamber of Commerce is a good try.
You also, after a few nights of stealth camping could stop at a motel or campground and buy a shower. Even try a local fitness center.
You also, after a few nights of stealth camping could stop at a motel or campground and buy a shower. Even try a local fitness center.