Messages

211

Connecting ACA Routes / NYC to Ohio and beyond

« on: January 15, 2016, 11:22:56 pm »

Last year, I was following the blog of a fellow who was riding from NYC westward.  I think he made it as far as North Dakota before he ran out of time.  He was riding with his wife and daughter.

I'm in the planning stages of a ride that initially will follow much of the route of this other bicyclist.  Unfortunately, I lost the link to his blog.  Can someone provide me with a link? 

I'm starting in NJ and hope to connect to the Northern Tier in PA/OH, head west and connect to the Route 66 map.  But first, I need to get across northern NJ and PA.  I don't really care to head north to Albany first.

212

General Discussion / Re: Dogs n' bears

« on: January 15, 2016, 08:39:35 pm »

NJ = 8729 square miles
#bears = 3500
Square miles / bear = 2.5

and you won't see a bear in most of the populated eastern part of the state.

No wonder I've seen so many in NJ!

213

General Discussion / Re: Bicycle tools for a cross country ride

« on: June 28, 2015, 08:30:20 pm »

Thanks all for you input.  Since my ride is not until next year, I have time to collect input and learn something about bike repairs.

Bobbys Beard,  What is a "spare clip on chain link".  I can guess what it is.  It sounds like something that may by helpful.

JR

214

General Discussion / Bicycle tools for a cross country ride

« on: June 25, 2015, 12:15:35 am »

A buddy of mine is interested in doing a cross country ride next year.  I'm trying to get my legs (and butt) in shape this year.  I've been using this website to learn about what to expect and how to prepare.

I've collected "what to pack" lists from various sites on the Internet.  Some people have extensive repair kits and back-up supplies.  My question is "What are the essential repairs I should need to know how to do and have appropriate tools to perform?".    I don't have a "cassette/freewheel removal tool".   In forty years of "riding for fun" I've never needed a cassette removal tool.  Should I buy one?  If so, I should probably take a class to learn how to use one.  How about a "chain tool" and spare links?   I know how to repair and replace inner tubes and I can adjust brakes and derailleur cables, but what else should I know how to fix?  Once when I was young, I was given a spoke wrench and totally messed up a wheel because I didn't know what I was doing.  I should have just left the wheel alone.  I'm planning on staying on popular ACA routes and not doing any off-road excursions.

Thanks in advance
John R