G'd Up From The Feet Up

Author's new bike sitting in front of Krank It Up, Tallahassee's Community Bike Project

I'm graduating from college in two weeks and, in just four more after that, we're leaving for our tour. Holy hell where did the time go? I distinctly remember last summer when my two friends (Cole and Michael) did their cross-country tour, inspiring me to save up and plan for my own journey across America. It's hard to believe that we're just a little more than a month out, and that it's actually going to happen. Of course, I didn't do it all on my own--and this post is dedicated to those who have been vital to the preparation of the tour, as well as those who have helped in my development as a cyclist.

Author's parents, Neil (front) and Marien (second)

First and foremost, the bike pictured above is my Salsa Fargo and it was gifted to me by my parents as a graduation present. I couldn't be more stoked on this bike; steel frame, disc brakes, limitless rack/mounting options, climbing gears for days, fits 29er tires as well as smaller road tires--this bike can do it all. Although the Fargo is marketed for bikepacking/off-road, it is incredibly comfortable and capable on pavement as well. I fully expect to ride it for the rest of my life, and I already have a list of countries I want to tour in with it. And before I forget: Huge thanks to The Great Bicycle Shop for taking good care of us in buying the bike.

I'm definitely lucky to have my parents' support in my biking interests. They both are very accepting of my choice to commute by bike, despite Tallahassee's god-awful drivers and lack of biking infrastructure. My dad has also been something of a guiding force behind my understanding of bike maintenance, bike culture, and everything in between. And I have to mention the fact that my parents did an incredible job raising my brother and I to appreciate the great outdoors via countless family outings to go biking, hiking, paddling, camping, etc. Simply put, my parents are bad ass and I know that I would be lost in preparing for this tour without their lifelong influence.

You may have noticed the swaggy accessories I have added to the Fargo. Specifically:

• Brooks B17 Saddle
• Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Rear Panniers
• Ortlieb Ultimate 6 Plus Handlebar Bag

For those who are familiar with bike touring products, the quality of these pieces do not have to be explained, and I am stoked that I now own them. In addition to the bags and saddle, I picked up a pair of Salsa's Anything Cages, some Shimano pedals and cleats, and a nice pair of dry bags for my sleeping bag/pad and tent. To my Aunt Pacita, who helped to finance some of the nicer pieces of gear, thank you so much. I'll be riding in style because of you! 

My buds and I @ Talloween X Alleycat: Franklin Manor

I want to wrap up this post with acknowledgement of my friends and peers within the Tallahassee biking community. I've been thinking about how I'm going to be gone for over two months, away from the people who really helped me find my passion for biking, and I'm going to miss them a ton. My roommate Jesse, and right-hand-man Robert. All the guys and girls in the Tallahassee Bike Polo Society who have showed me the most fun sport I've ever played in my life. Joe and Pete at Joe's Bike Shop, who have put up with my questions and all my bike mishaps. The volunteers at Krank It Up, who helped me to become more self-sustaining with my ever-growing collection of bikes. And everyone I've met through biking and who share a common passion for bicycles. 

You guys all rule. My friends, my family, and everyone who rides a bike. 

I'M SO PUMPED FOR THIS TOUR, BABY. WOOO!

- Chris