THERE HAS TO BE SOMEBODY OUT THERE ON THE ATLANTIC COAST ROUTE

[litespeed]

The best part of going up the east coast is, in descending order, A1A in Florida, the Outer Banks in NC and US9 in NJ. The coast of Maine is probably worth a tour but that is one of the 6 states I haven't bicycle toured in. South Carolina is the worst.

[dracolytch]

Eric,

Unfortunately, I'll likely be out of town the days you'll be in my area. That said: If your possible routes allow for the C&O canal, take it... It's certainly a welcome break from riding streets. Do you have a map set up with your expected route? I did one of these on google maps, and found it time well-spent: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=115748341701322991092.00046ff5fccfcde09050e&z=9.

Litespeed: My first tour was in Maine last summer. It was (other than being something of a comedy of errors) an awesome ride. Friendliest drivers I ever had to deal with. Ever. Gorgeous terrain. Awesome food. Late summer (Right after labor day) was is THE time to go, because the tourism slows down. Send me a message if you want the URL which as full trip notes / gear notes / etc.

[sprocketman]

Hey Dracolytch,

Here is what i did with my maps. I got ACA atlantic Coast maps. I took the text beside each panel and enlarged it 260 percent so it fits in my handlebar 6" x 6" map holder. I then highlighed the route changes and laminated everyone. But wait, there is more. I took a seatpost light and faced it forward toward the map. Now (at night) my handlebar looks like the dashboard of a car. I used a red light so I don't disturb my night vision. I works great and adds lighted safety. This avoids stopping to pull out a map. what do you think?

[dracolytch]

Sounds good for on-bike. I mentioned the google maps partly because I found them handy to share with friends/family whilst planning my trip. That way I could see WHERE in MD you'll be, and if I'm close enough to be any help.