Mat, Few people will ever realize the level of fitness you now have, and even fewer will ever know the tenacity it takes to do what you do. Your travels are amazing. Thanks.
Randomly started browsing cross country cycling videos for inspirations and stumbled upon your journey. Been so fun watching through it. Learning a lot and love the banter and thoughts along the way. A relaxing and enjoyable experience to vicariously live through until I can do it myself one day!
Mat, I’m so impressed with you and your resilience. What a good sport you are, and so willing to tolerate discomfort to find the good. Another great and inspiring video! And thank you Ross!
I am always waiting for your next post. Remarkable that I get so much pleasure out of watching someone riding a bike but there it is. I think through your posts you link people from all walks in a common need of adventure. Always enjoy it. Thanks Mat.
Great Job staying at it through the tough days with the bugs, being bounced from the shelter, heat, headwinds and rough roads. True Perseverance you have demonstrated.
Matt, you’re an inspiration to me, and I’m sure many others. I’m also sure that the real significance of what you’re doing, and the achievement you will have when you’re finished will only be real to you after you are done. Hang in there!
Welcome to the heartland of America. Atkinson is my home town. We have a business in O'Neill you rode right past. When the train line stopped running and someone decided to convert it to a trail... Your ride was the exact reason. Glad it's an enjoyable experience for you. Btw, the humidity is because of all the corn that time of year. It's called corn sweat and it's pretty brutal for sure.
Ha! My 2022 ride across the US ended in that very restaurant in Crawford. Long story, but I was able to pick up in the same place in 2023. It had changed hands. FYI Dairy Sweet has awesome shakes. I rode South from Chadron to Alliance on gravel backroads then to Omaha via Nebraska 2
Greetings from Norway. Love the content as always. Remember to enjoy your trip aswell. If something is hard do a reset and tell yourself how lucky you are to be allowed to do this.
I’m glad you got onto the Cowboy Trail. A nice way to cover a large chunk of Nebraska. Hopefully the day off will help you discover your “why” again. I get those days as well and they always pass. You’re doing awesome! Keep grinding and be safe! Thank you for these videos!
It's never too early for a beer!🍻 your determination is something else! Amazing shots and very much appreciated. It's clear how hard this trip is at times, but your positive vibes shine through. Keep going , we need to see the finish line..... the wet wheels 😊 Thanks for your hard work and Ross, of course ❤
Watching your video right now and as always, I’m inspired. I think that’s one good reason (of many) to keep going on. There’s a lot of folks just like me with you on this journey in spirit. We all believe in you!!!
Hi Mat, On 30+ C days, I do long rides with a wet cooling neck towel. The one I use is long and wide enough, so I wrap it around my neck over my shoulders. It keeps me cool for hours. I know it's only wrapped around neck and shoulders, but somehow on a ride, the whole body feels cooled down. A good quality one can be had for under $20. It adds the weight of the towel and the water it has soaked in. The main feature of it is, it holds on to the water it soaks in, maybe letting a few drops to drip out, and the rest keeping you cooled. Another similar thing I do, is I soak up a hat that I wear first, so it stays under the helmet. I need my head cool for thinking straight. 😊 I re-wet the hat several times, depending on how warm it is, and how quickly it dries. BTW I'm a new sub, only since you started your current transam tour. You're almost encouraging me to go on my own tour (very first), but I'll wait until I see you through to the end of your current tour. However, I'm extremely weary of doing such a tour in the USA, simply due to the amount of health risk I'll be taking and the cost of healthcare in the USA. I'm more concerned about this, than bike thieves, people and any other animals in general. 😂😅 Lastly, wish you all the best, and infinite thanks for being wonderful and sharing.
Excellent suggestion. I have a buff and will start soaking it and putting it around my neck on hot days. Sorry for the brief reply but I hope you have a successful first tour. Cheers
Those rail trails look great. Just being able to cycle and relax must be a joy even though the traffic doesnt look too heavy. Plus missing those joints in the shoulder will really help and add to the riding pleasure. Thanks for the video!
Mat, wow, another great episode. Yes, our neighbors in Nebraska are great farmers, supplying food to people around the world. Love the rail trails, especially the bridges. just so you know, it should get progressively more humid the farther east you go, so you have that to look forward to, but coming from the UK, you should be used to it. stay safe, and cheers. I am looking forward to a proper British beer when I come over.
Hey Mat, I'm sorry you didn't come through our hometown in Colorado (we had beer for you) but you made the right decision. We enjoy your channel so much. Be safe out there!
Your mental toughness is commendable, when i go on a "long" ride like a 60 mile day and turn negative i picture you trucking on no problem! Keep it going Mat!
I always visualize a tough British drill Sergeant when things get tough. I was in the US Army and USAF, but it's that British DI that I think of when needed.
Another great video. I'm absorbing as much as I can for my next outing. Those joints on the shoulders are just brutal and demoralizing. Nice work pushing through. I'm enjoying seeing the Cowboy Trail.
Hi Mat. I did the Lon Las Cymru this week. I started at 9.30am Monday morning and finished by midday on Wednesday. Really short in comparison to your videos but it gave me a minor insight into your adventure. I planned it before I started watching your videos but when I doubted I could do it, I thought of your stoicism in the face of adversity. Keep it going!
Stayed overnight in Valentine last summer on drive out to Yellowstone, great little town with great river activities and an awesome rail trail! It was windy then too haha!
Wow, you're channel is gaining momentum fast now, Mat, and at almost 120 comments I don't think I've seen so many respond to your videos in half a day before 🙂 That's awesome 🙂 Thank you for another great one, Mat, your videos are one of the high-points of the week. Though basically flat I find Nebraska to be beautiful. I love the great wide open expances, we don't have a lot of that here in Norway, at least not to that extent. And the charming quiet little towns. I'd struggle with a couple of things though, as seen in this video. The expansion joints would make me go nuts in 2 seconds flat, and the heat would be hard on a Norwegian guy with English skin 😂 We're talking dual "punishment" 🙂 But seriously, for a trip like that I would embrace it. As for your rehydration setup, it makes perfect sense with a 2-bottle setup for its versatility. It's even better if they're insulated to keep your fluids cold. I just wonder if you've considered getting a Crank Tank 4L for future adventures? It would effectively double your in-frame rehydration capacity, and - should you need the extra space - it would also allow for an even bigger custom made framebag. Just a thought 🙂 Anayways, wishing you all the best and happy trails, and looking forward to the next one 🙂 Cheers 🙂 PS: Great seeing Larry on here too, you should see his Strava account. It's pretty much cluster bombed with cycling activities so no wonder he has racked up 10k miles this year 🙂 Truly inspirational, so to you, Larry: Chapeau! 🙂 🙏🏼 Cheers !
Hi AK (I think that's what Larry calls you). Those expansion joints were the only bad thing about Nebraska. I liked the little towns too. The heat is not so bad when the winds are blowing. I like your suggestion for hydration. I'll look into once I'm back. Cheers Mat
I very much enjoyed following this same hwy on my road trip West to the Rocky Mountains in 2010. I wanted a peaceful, more scenic route than the Interstate. I camped at the state park in Chadron and it was perfect! Very memorable.
Hi Matt, Loving your journey! I notice in some of your indoor shots you are getting some flicker from the fluorescent lights. Check to make sure your camera is set for 24 frames per second (North American standard) as opposed to 25 fps (European standard). This is due to North American power being transmitted at 60 Hz and European power at 50 Hz. If you set your camera to 24 fps (23.98) it will eliminate the flicker. Good luck!
Some great miles covered Mat. Edging the 100 miles is a great effort, significant distance. Plenty of flat ground helps you recover a little. The bike looks great, I like the look of it and it's a decent load carrier. You went through a couple of interesting places, one was particualrly surreal!!!!! (Maybe it was a dream??!). Best of luck with it and if you get chance park your bike under the sprinklers and get a free wash!!! All best.
I absolutely loved bicycling through Nebraska, especially the sandhills. Went back a couple years later to do them again, together with South Dakota’s Mikkelson trail. Slept in Merriman twice: once in the city park and one in the state park , 2 miles east of town. Stopped at the L-bow saloon in Johnstown. Ruth was fantastic! I was her only customer at the time… Also camped at Long Pine state park.
Enjoying your vlog as usual, Nebraska man, welcome to the heartland of America. I drove across it once and well parts of it were ok. Great people though. Keep on keeping on!!!
Mat, Been meaning to drop a comment for some time. Cannot thank you enough for doing these amazing videos. So inspiring. Here I am, 51 years old, Fellow Brit now living in the US and sitting here binge-watching all your content while recovering from a Mountain Bike Collar Bone break. Nightmare. You're getting me through it hahaa. (coffee helps a lot). Anyways, I can see your struggle in this episode. Looks somewhat brutal. What gets me through big rides has always been Gold Bond Friction Defense. Its like a deodorant stick but is super good for sores and friction. It can be found at most Drug Stores over here. Def check for it. Will help a lot. Theres also a product called Lanacane which is even better but hard to come by. Hope this helps. Good luck on your next step of this epic journey Mat. Thanks so so much for what you do. "GoPro stop Recording" ..... ..... ..... (haha)
Mat, thank you once again for top-notch content. I've been following you right from the start of GDMBR. This is so different. Riding in a straight line along a highway and seeing the route far ahead must be boring at times. Nonetheless, you make it interesting for us. I like your raw first-hand commentary and I admire your perseverance. One can actually feel the pain of Nebraska bumps and your continuous struggle against headwind. I enjoy sharing your expectations and experiencing your subsequent surprises, frustrations, disappointments and small pleasures. It's even exciting to wait for your mystery meals (combo). I hope you will get some US subscribers to ride along you from time to time. A message for Ross: we appreciate greatly your efforts behind-the-scenes and the chin-ups. Best of luck to you both! Maciek from Krakow, Poland.
Great video as usual. Kudos to you and Ross. As to the moan-inducing conditions, be sure to always remember that you're touring and try to stop somewhere before you get dragged down too much.
awesome show. they don't come fast enough for me and i presume many viewers here. i always tell myself, the bad days make the good days even better. but hopefully not many bad ones in your future. thnx a lot. keep them pedals turning.
Love your video’s! You are one tough adventurous cyclist! I have biked across the southern US twice with a group but they transported the bags and always knew the overnight destination town. I cannot imagine going solo self contained like you are doing with large mileage days.
Hi Matt Your video adventures are excellent entertainment and beautifully filmed. You strike just the right relaxed tone and pace to keep the viewer involved and interested. Glad to see you are looking after your chain. So many riders assume it will last for years. Looked after, a chain is good for about 2,500 miles. Do you have a chain wear tool? Your drive train will thank you for replacing the chain when it's 75% worn. Do this and your expensive chainrings and cassette will last forever! By the way, did you check out my recommendation for melatonin?
I put a new chain on at around 2500 miles just in case. I did check out your recommendation and bought some gel melatonin sweets. They worked great. Cheers 👍👍
Unusual to hear mat moan about anything but now and again you just have to let it out. And boy didn’t he. But another lovely video loving the series. Hollywood awaits
Ha, I try and give a true impression of the route! I'll be honest that was still my filtered version of what I was really thinking, after a day of headwinds and those seams in the road Ross couldn't have edited together what I was really wanting to say, it would have just been a long bleep!
Hey Mat, glad to see you're getting through Nebraska. And glad to see that you're still getting random beer and treat deliveries along the way. Another great video! Cheers!
Well , you are in farm country. There is a product called Bag Balm. Maybe someone has recommended it. It would be for your saddle sores. Cheers, good luck.
Expansion joints drove me mad all the way across North Dakota and western Montana in 2018. And it wasn't just my butt but my hands and arms and shoulders ached. I had heard some negative things about the Cowboy Trail but this video proves them wrong. Just wait until you reach the GAP Trail in Pennsylvania and Maryland. It's, to use a favorite word of yours, awesome. Thanks also for the gearing info. I just modified the 2x9 drivetrain on my Surly CrossCheck. and now realize I can make further adjustments to turn it into a legit touring bike. My 69-year old knees are grateful. As for saddle sores, the best thing I've tried is the aptly named Asos chamois cream. Ride on!
Glad to see you made it to some rail trails. I did my first multi-rail trail trip this summer. I will never go back to the highway. For saddle sores, I found a spray bottle of tea tree oil is good maintenance. I am not sold on saddle butters.
I have walked half the planet as a pelgrim. And i would like to give you the tip of the following... If you see anyone in a village or best places where people are, ask for a plays to sleep. You wil find this way works not only better😉 but your travelstory wil get much better indeed. Go to the people and ask them. Many times you wil be invited to there homes. Good luck. Antoon.
I rode the Trans Am East to West in 2011. Going across Kansas, I found the following truth: "Kansas might be flat. But that doesn't mean it's easy." I think you are finding the same about Nebraska. The wind is king. By the way, I love the drone shots. They add an immense amount to the documentary. I particularly enjoyed them out West when you were traversing the same route I did in 2011.
Try "Bag Balm' (normally at pharmacy desk). Farmers use this lubricant on cows teets when they are milked by hand. I used it and it works really well. :) No more groin saddle sores.
I went for a long ride last Sunday. Longer than I've ever ridden. I was ready to be home. I could feel your exhaustion. You are tenacious! We are behind you in spirit. All the best!
Hay Mat,….I understand how you feel about the asphalt joints …can be really bothersome. We just returned from a circum-navigation of the Adirondack Park in NY and there were some sections of roadway with the same joints. I have a Cane Creek eSilk,…so glad I had it.
Hi mat why aren't you using your stove in the morning to make coffee anymore? Can't function till I've had coffee!. Keep it up love each episode. See you soon.😊
He’s run out of gas so has been adding instant coffee to cold water if he’s desperate but has managed to find coffee most mornings whilst cycling along and into towns etc
Hi Mat, watched all your videos on the TransAm 2024 trip so far, and I am very inspired, There is a lot of stuff on US coast to coast rides on YT, but your level of detail, insights, positivity and spot on British sense of humor beats it all!!! Thanks for that.🙏 I am planning on doing a similar ride/trip next year, starting in Missoula, MT heading to NYC. A few questions popped up watching this episode and others, if you don't mind ... 1. Do you have to filter the water you get from public spots (22:30), restrooms, etc.? 2. What Schwalbe tires do you use and what is the width? I am aiming for Schwalbe G One Speed, 30mm ... 3. What camping setup do you use? (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad) 4. Any critical encounters with dogs? What do you do? Pepper Spray? 5. How did you find these nice camping spots pre-'Bike Nonstop' route? ACA maps? Did you purchase them? Hard copy / GPX data? Sorry many questions. There is no hurry on answers here. Enjoy your ride to the Atlantic ocean, ride safe and rock on, my friend!!! Thanks in advance. PS.: Deschutes IPA is my favorite beer. My eyes sparkle everytime I see those popping up in your videos. They make me pay a fortune for those in Thailand.
Hi. Good luck with your trip. I'm glad you find these videos useful. I haven't filtered any water from public spots and have been fine so far. I have Schwalbe Marathon Almotion TLE tubeless tyres at 38mm. They've been great. No flats. I have a ZPacks Duples 2 man tent, a Thermarest XLite wide pad and a 20 degree Revelation Designs quilt. I've had no issues with dogs. They chase but that's all. I have bear spray because I went through Yellowstone and haven't dropped it off yet so I suppose that would be a last resort. Pre BNS I had the ACA downloadable maps. They have all the information you need for camping, resupplying etc. That Deschutes IPA is good stuff. Cheers.
Mat - saddlesores, I use the same Ergon SMC saddles, they are very comfy on the sit bones but are quite wide further forward which suits an upright riding position, might be worth trying to raise your bars if possible to sit a bit more upright, I think that will help more than lowering the saddle nose as the problem area is further back near the pivot point - keep pedalling!
Tough watch to start with Mat as the conditions and roads seemed to be beating you down, glad you found a great rail trail, hopefully you’ll find lots more scenic stress free cycling as you continue. Happy the Kona is doing a good job. Stay safe and be lucky Mat
The purpose is to follow your desires and enjoy the journey. Plus, you're sharing your experience with all of us and inspiring our own adventures. Thanks for taking the time to film the beautiful shots over the bridges, the wildflowers, and simply bringing us along.
Regarding your saddle sores: My personal research into this issue has led me to conclude that the number 1 issue is the saddle itself, second is hygiene. Padded saddles are terrible for long rides. Best are the leather (like Brooks) or composite. As for hygiene, I have no doubt that you're keeping clean, but, it's also your clothing. If you aren't washing it properly, it's a problem. A proper wash involves temperature above 50C, with a quality detergent, followed by a rinse with a little rinse agent, then a thorough rinse with fresh water. In between each of those, a "spin" cycle, or thorough "wring out" is required, in order to remove as much as possible before the next step.
So sorry to hear about the saddle sores getting worse. Ive heard of that rail trail in Nebraska. Very nice and gets you safe and off the road. Glad things are working out with the bike.
Love your videos, you have brilliant editor! Lol. I'm sure your an inspiration to many. Saw your interview on trailmark podcast, you've inspired me to also look at some negative habits. Currently training to do the Shropshire cycle way, never bikepacked before though wild camp regularly. Good luck. And can't wait for the next vid.
I have an '05 Sutra; they are solid bikes, love the steel frame. I think your chainrings are 46/30, not the 40/36 you mentioned. Probably the long days and headwinds were getting to you. I think it was Tom Cuthbertson's 1972 book, Bike Tripping, in which he remarked that ideally you should always tour with at least one other person, so that you have somebody to bitch to about the headwinds. Glad we can provide a sympathetic ear for you. Totally agree that taking a day off (about once a week, ideally) is essential when touring, particularly when traveling solo, in order to keep things fun.
I knew as soon as you said you got yanked out of your spot by the police that you were in Nebraska lol, also keep some pepper spray handy cuz there's a lot of farm dogs running around aimlessly...flat as far as the eye can see, and windy... but at least there's trees for shade...unlike N Dakota...good stuff 🥓🥓
Enjoying following you. Swapping saddles occasionally is a big help. I had to do this on a ride down the coast of California. Those inclines in the Appalachians you'll soon encounter are quite intense even if the mountains are not as tall as the Rockies. Watch out for dogs in the south. Even more important is that if you here dueling banjos, pedal as fast away as you can.
the Asphalt cracks every thirty feet.....those are stress cracks from the winter freeze cycle. They can't be avoided. And yes, they suck, AS do the "rumble strips" we put in the edge of the highways.
In reading Lance Armstrong’s book, I’d learned he had used Triamcinolone Acetonide and is what I used to help a saddle sore. It does require a prescription, but, is worth a try.
Hi Mat 👋 I hope that the secret WiFi woman didn't download any data-logging software onto your phone ... 🤨 It's a shame that those cops didn't have any gangsta felons to chase after for excitement, evicting a well-spoken cycling Englishman seems a bit dull in comparison. The drone footage over that wooden rail trail bridge was something else, it really did it for me! Well done Larry, meeting people like him is what a big part of cycle touring is all about 🙂 Thanks Mat 👍 Edit; the final few seconds of drone footage of the video, oh wow, just wow! Thanks for that Ross 👌
Hi Tony. Hope you're doing well. There are clearly no felons in Nebraska aside from me. I missed the end of the video. I always clock off too early. I'll watch again.
@@matryderadventures Cheers Mat 🙂 Yes, you do look a bit of a shady perp. The outro of the bridge crossing was just fantastic, well worth a second watch. Ross clearly knows what your customers want and desire. All the best going forward 🚲👍
Hi, Matt! Glad you stopped at Dairy Queen for a break and some food. Don’t know what it is. But anytime I go on a long hike or bike ride and there is a DQ I have to stop and grab a bite to eat. Probably nostalgia from my childhood. Ride on, brother! 🤙😎
Your new route is going to take you through Indiana? Did I see that correctly on the map in this episode? I'm following your dot. Okay, I was able to finish this video after getting back home. Definitely coming through Indiana!
Mat,
Few people will ever realize the level of fitness you now have, and even fewer will ever know the tenacity it takes to do what you do.
Your travels are amazing.
Thanks.
Randomly started browsing cross country cycling videos for inspirations and stumbled upon your journey. Been so fun watching through it. Learning a lot and love the banter and thoughts along the way. A relaxing and enjoyable experience to vicariously live through until I can do it myself one day!
Thanks for another great video. I watch hundreds of vids on youtube each week but yours are the ones I look forward to and enjoy the most.
Mat, I’m so impressed with you and your resilience. What a good sport you are, and so willing to tolerate discomfort to find the good. Another great and inspiring video! And thank you Ross!
I am always waiting for your next post. Remarkable that I get so much pleasure out of watching someone riding a bike but there it is. I think through your posts you link people from all walks in a common need of adventure. Always enjoy it. Thanks Mat.
Thanks!
Amazing. Thanks for the support 👍👍👍
Great Job staying at it through the tough days with the bugs, being bounced from the shelter, heat, headwinds and rough roads. True Perseverance you have demonstrated.
Matt, you’re an inspiration to me, and I’m sure many others. I’m also sure that the real significance of what you’re doing, and the achievement you will have when you’re finished will only be real to you after you are done. Hang in there!
Welcome to the heartland of America. Atkinson is my home town. We have a business in O'Neill you rode right past. When the train line stopped running and someone decided to convert it to a trail... Your ride was the exact reason. Glad it's an enjoyable experience for you. Btw, the humidity is because of all the corn that time of year. It's called corn sweat and it's pretty brutal for sure.
Ha! My 2022 ride across the US ended in that very restaurant in Crawford. Long story, but I was able to pick up in the same place in 2023. It had changed hands. FYI Dairy Sweet has awesome shakes. I rode South from Chadron to Alliance on gravel backroads then to Omaha via Nebraska 2
Greetings from Norway. Love the content as always. Remember to enjoy your trip aswell. If something is hard do a reset and tell yourself how lucky you are to be allowed to do this.
I’m glad you got onto the Cowboy Trail. A nice way to cover a large chunk of Nebraska. Hopefully the day off will help you discover your “why” again. I get those days as well and they always pass. You’re doing awesome! Keep grinding and be safe! Thank you for these videos!
It's never too early for a beer!🍻 your determination is something else! Amazing shots and very much appreciated. It's clear how hard this trip is at times, but your positive vibes shine through. Keep going , we need to see the finish line..... the wet wheels 😊
Thanks for your hard work and Ross, of course ❤
Watching your video right now and as always, I’m inspired. I think that’s one good reason (of many) to keep going on. There’s a lot of folks just like me with you on this journey in spirit. We all believe in you!!!
Thanks again Ross and Mat. We’ve camped with our travel trailer in that Valentine city park. I always thought cycling across Nebraska would be tough.
Absolutely love your adventures Matt
You have certainly inspired me to start bike packing after so many years off my bike. I can't wait to plan my first adventure. Thank you!
The bridge shots were worth it Mat, thanks for taking the time
Just love every video you make. It always motivates me to get outside and ride.
Keep on keeping on. I live in Omaha, have ridden the Katy Trail (in Missouri, much like the Cowboy Trail).
Hi Mat, On 30+ C days, I do long rides with a wet cooling neck towel. The one I use is long and wide enough, so I wrap it around my neck over my shoulders. It keeps me cool for hours. I know it's only wrapped around neck and shoulders, but somehow on a ride, the whole body feels cooled down. A good quality one can be had for under $20. It adds the weight of the towel and the water it has soaked in. The main feature of it is, it holds on to the water it soaks in, maybe letting a few drops to drip out, and the rest keeping you cooled.
Another similar thing I do, is I soak up a hat that I wear first, so it stays under the helmet. I need my head cool for thinking straight. 😊 I re-wet the hat several times, depending on how warm it is, and how quickly it dries.
BTW I'm a new sub, only since you started your current transam tour. You're almost encouraging me to go on my own tour (very first), but I'll wait until I see you through to the end of your current tour.
However, I'm extremely weary of doing such a tour in the USA, simply due to the amount of health risk I'll be taking and the cost of healthcare in the USA. I'm more concerned about this, than bike thieves, people and any other animals in general. 😂😅
Lastly, wish you all the best, and infinite thanks for being wonderful and sharing.
Excellent suggestion. I have a buff and will start soaking it and putting it around my neck on hot days. Sorry for the brief reply but I hope you have a successful first tour. Cheers
Those rail trails look great. Just being able to cycle and relax must be a joy even though the traffic doesnt look too heavy. Plus missing those joints in the shoulder will really help and add to the riding pleasure. Thanks for the video!
Mat, wow, another great episode. Yes, our neighbors in Nebraska are great farmers, supplying food to people around the world. Love the rail trails, especially the bridges. just so you know, it should get progressively more humid the farther east you go, so you have that to look forward to, but coming from the UK, you should be used to it. stay safe, and cheers. I am looking forward to a proper British beer when I come over.
You're welcome any time. Cheers
Hey Mat, I'm sorry you didn't come through our hometown in Colorado (we had beer for you) but you made the right decision. We enjoy your channel so much. Be safe out there!
Your mental toughness is commendable, when i go on a "long" ride like a 60 mile day and turn negative i picture you trucking on no problem! Keep it going Mat!
I always visualize a tough British drill Sergeant when things get tough.
I was in the US Army and USAF, but it's that British DI that I think of when needed.
Another great video. I'm absorbing as much as I can for my next outing.
Those joints on the shoulders are just brutal and demoralizing. Nice work pushing through. I'm enjoying seeing the Cowboy Trail.
Hi Mat. I did the Lon Las Cymru this week. I started at 9.30am Monday morning and finished by midday on Wednesday. Really short in comparison to your videos but it gave me a minor insight into your adventure.
I planned it before I started watching your videos but when I doubted I could do it, I thought of your stoicism in the face of adversity. Keep it going!
I love this comment. It genuinely makes me happy. Cheers 👍👍
Stayed overnight in Valentine last summer on drive out to Yellowstone, great little town with great river activities and an awesome rail trail! It was windy then too haha!
It was great to meet you in Indiana this morning. This is Jason from Greenwood.
Hi Jason. It was great meeting you too. Thanks for the gift cards!!! Cheers.
The drone shot over the bridge was worth it!
Wow, you're channel is gaining momentum fast now, Mat, and at almost 120 comments I don't think I've seen so many respond to your videos in half a day before 🙂 That's awesome 🙂 Thank you for another great one, Mat, your videos are one of the high-points of the week. Though basically flat I find Nebraska to be beautiful. I love the great wide open expances, we don't have a lot of that here in Norway, at least not to that extent. And the charming quiet little towns. I'd struggle with a couple of things though, as seen in this video. The expansion joints would make me go nuts in 2 seconds flat, and the heat would be hard on a Norwegian guy with English skin 😂 We're talking dual "punishment" 🙂 But seriously, for a trip like that I would embrace it.
As for your rehydration setup, it makes perfect sense with a 2-bottle setup for its versatility. It's even better if they're insulated to keep your fluids cold. I just wonder if you've considered getting a Crank Tank 4L for future adventures? It would effectively double your in-frame rehydration capacity, and - should you need the extra space - it would also allow for an even bigger custom made framebag. Just a thought 🙂 Anayways, wishing you all the best and happy trails, and looking forward to the next one 🙂 Cheers 🙂
PS: Great seeing Larry on here too, you should see his Strava account. It's pretty much cluster bombed with cycling activities so no wonder he has racked up 10k miles this year 🙂 Truly inspirational, so to you, Larry: Chapeau! 🙂 🙏🏼
Cheers !
Hi AK (I think that's what Larry calls you). Those expansion joints were the only bad thing about Nebraska. I liked the little towns too. The heat is not so bad when the winds are blowing. I like your suggestion for hydration. I'll look into once I'm back.
Cheers
Mat
Awesome progress, despite the wind! Nebraska is interesting, though as the state ad slogan used to say, “honestly, it’s not for everyone.” Stay safe.
I very much enjoyed following this same hwy on my road trip West to the Rocky Mountains in 2010. I wanted a peaceful, more scenic route than the Interstate. I camped at the state park in Chadron and it was perfect! Very memorable.
Hi Matt,
Loving your journey! I notice in some of your indoor shots you are getting some flicker from the fluorescent lights. Check to make sure your camera is set for 24 frames per second (North American standard) as opposed to 25 fps (European standard). This is due to North American power being transmitted at 60 Hz and European power at 50 Hz. If you set your camera to 24 fps (23.98) it will eliminate the flicker. Good luck!
Great information. Thanks.
Some great miles covered Mat. Edging the 100 miles is a great effort, significant distance. Plenty of flat ground helps you recover a little. The bike looks great, I like the look of it and it's a decent load carrier. You went through a couple of interesting places, one was particualrly surreal!!!!! (Maybe it was a dream??!).
Best of luck with it and if you get chance park your bike under the sprinklers and get a free wash!!! All best.
I absolutely loved bicycling through Nebraska, especially the sandhills. Went back a couple years later to do them again, together with South Dakota’s Mikkelson trail.
Slept in Merriman twice: once in the city park and one in the state park , 2 miles east of town. Stopped at the L-bow saloon in Johnstown. Ruth was fantastic! I was her only customer at the time… Also camped at Long Pine state park.
I watch every episode - love them all - fantastic mate
I have never done a long tour like you are doing. I am sure it is easy to get lost in your thoughts. Thanks for keeping it real.
Enjoying your vlog as usual, Nebraska man, welcome to the heartland of America. I drove across it once and well parts of it were ok. Great people though. Keep on keeping on!!!
Mat, Been meaning to drop a comment for some time. Cannot thank you enough for doing these amazing videos. So inspiring. Here I am, 51 years old, Fellow Brit now living in the US and sitting here binge-watching all your content while recovering from a Mountain Bike Collar Bone break. Nightmare. You're getting me through it hahaa. (coffee helps a lot). Anyways, I can see your struggle in this episode. Looks somewhat brutal. What gets me through big rides has always been Gold Bond Friction Defense. Its like a deodorant stick but is super good for sores and friction. It can be found at most Drug Stores over here. Def check for it. Will help a lot. Theres also a product called Lanacane which is even better but hard to come by. Hope this helps. Good luck on your next step of this epic journey Mat. Thanks so so much for what you do. "GoPro stop Recording" ..... ..... ..... (haha)
Thanks for the advice. I'll look out for both of your suggestions. I'm glad you liked these videos. Good luck with the recovery. Cheers.
Another enjoyable video. Never seen someone cycling Nebraska before. The winds look fierce. Thanks again and I hope you enjoy your rest day.
Mat, thank you once again for top-notch content. I've been following you right from the start of GDMBR. This is so different. Riding in a straight line along a highway and seeing the route far ahead must be boring at times. Nonetheless, you make it interesting for us. I like your raw first-hand commentary and I admire your perseverance. One can actually feel the pain of Nebraska bumps and your continuous struggle against headwind. I enjoy sharing your expectations and experiencing your subsequent surprises, frustrations, disappointments and small pleasures. It's even exciting to wait for your mystery meals (combo). I hope you will get some US subscribers to ride along you from time to time. A message for Ross: we appreciate greatly your efforts behind-the-scenes and the chin-ups. Best of luck to you both! Maciek from Krakow, Poland.
Thanks for the great comment. Cheers 👍👍
Great video as usual. Kudos to you and Ross. As to the moan-inducing conditions, be sure to always remember that you're touring and try to stop somewhere before you get dragged down too much.
Nice, a Thursday Mat video! Glad you found the cowboy trail and you got away from the endless road joins. Have a lovely day off mate :)
awesome show. they don't come fast enough for me and i presume many viewers here.
i always tell myself, the bad days make the good days even better. but hopefully not many bad ones in your future.
thnx a lot. keep them pedals turning.
Amazing job and you show great tenacity to stay at it every day. Thank you for the outstanding video. Take care, Al
Love your video’s! You are one tough adventurous cyclist! I have biked across the southern US twice with a group but they transported the bags and always knew the overnight destination town. I cannot imagine going solo self contained like you are doing with large mileage days.
Awesome video 👌 👏 Mat . Drone shot of Bridge Amazing.! .
Hi Matt
Your video adventures are excellent entertainment and beautifully filmed. You strike just the right relaxed tone and pace to keep the viewer involved and interested.
Glad to see you are looking after your chain. So many riders assume it will last for years. Looked after, a chain is good for about 2,500 miles.
Do you have a chain wear tool?
Your drive train will thank you for replacing the chain when it's 75% worn.
Do this and your expensive chainrings and cassette will last forever!
By the way, did you check out my recommendation for melatonin?
I put a new chain on at around 2500 miles just in case. I did check out your recommendation and bought some gel melatonin sweets. They worked great. Cheers 👍👍
Unusual to hear mat moan about anything but now and again you just have to let it out. And boy didn’t he. But another lovely video loving the series. Hollywood awaits
Ha, I try and give a true impression of the route! I'll be honest that was still my filtered version of what I was really thinking, after a day of headwinds and those seams in the road Ross couldn't have edited together what I was really wanting to say, it would have just been a long bleep!
Gotta say, for a handheld camera, your images are really solid. Well done
Super bridge! 👏😉…..seriously you’re doing great and the videos are fantastic….✊
Looks awesome Mat remember to enjoy every moment, your doing great. New route takes you my way, I'm so excited for you .
Your getting through it Mat. 90 pluss miles, that's good going on a touring bike. Well done😊
Great video Mat! Even I was starting to get annoyed by those bumps, LOL.
Great ride and nice to see. Too bad that you miss Colorado now. Don’t miss out on Kansas and Missouri!
When you said valentine I looked it up and first thing I seen was a MacD I knew you would stop. Lol
Hey Mat, glad to see you're getting through Nebraska. And glad to see that you're still getting random beer and treat deliveries along the way. Another great video! Cheers!
Well , you are in farm country. There is a product called Bag Balm. Maybe someone has recommended it. It would be for your saddle sores. Cheers, good luck.
Another great video. Thanks for sharing your journey.
95 miles in a day impressive ! I try for 30 miles a day ! For me 30 is tough ! Great video
Expansion joints drove me mad all the way across North Dakota and western Montana in 2018. And it wasn't just my butt but my hands and arms and shoulders ached. I had heard some negative things about the Cowboy Trail but this video proves them wrong. Just wait until you reach the GAP Trail in Pennsylvania and Maryland. It's, to use a favorite word of yours, awesome.
Thanks also for the gearing info. I just modified the 2x9 drivetrain on my Surly CrossCheck. and now realize I can make further adjustments to turn it into a legit touring bike. My 69-year old knees are grateful.
As for saddle sores, the best thing I've tried is the aptly named Asos chamois cream.
Ride on!
Ah yes, the Cowboy Trail. I've always wanted to ride it! How cool!!
Glad to see you made it to some rail trails. I did my first multi-rail trail trip this summer. I will never go back to the highway. For saddle sores, I found a spray bottle of tea tree oil is good maintenance. I am not sold on saddle butters.
I have walked half the planet as a pelgrim.
And i would like to give you the tip of the following... If you see anyone in a village or best places where people are, ask for a plays to sleep. You wil find this way works not only better😉 but your travelstory wil get much better indeed.
Go to the people and ask them. Many times you wil be invited to there homes.
Good luck.
Antoon.
Saddle sores: Find a Tractor Supply Company store and get a tin of Udder Balm. Perfect for saddle discomfort.
I rode the Trans Am East to West in 2011. Going across Kansas, I found the following truth: "Kansas might be flat. But that doesn't mean it's easy." I think you are finding the same about Nebraska. The wind is king. By the way, I love the drone shots. They add an immense amount to the documentary. I particularly enjoyed them out West when you were traversing the same route I did in 2011.
Well done Mat, fantastic and interesting viewing 😀
cheers Matt cheers Ross. Thanks for another great episode
Another great video, you had some long days on this ride. Well deserved rest day. 🍺 Cheers
That bridge! Incredible
Try "Bag Balm' (normally at pharmacy desk). Farmers use this lubricant on cows teets when they are milked by hand. I used it and it works really well. :) No more groin saddle sores.
I went for a long ride last Sunday. Longer than I've ever ridden. I was ready to be home. I could feel your exhaustion. You are tenacious! We are behind you in spirit. All the best!
Hay Mat,….I understand how you feel about the asphalt joints …can be really bothersome. We just returned from a circum-navigation of the Adirondack Park in NY and there were some sections of roadway with the same joints. I have a Cane Creek eSilk,…so glad I had it.
I have one on my Sonder and love it. I'll be getting one for the Kona.
Hi mat why aren't you using your stove in the morning to make coffee anymore? Can't function till I've had coffee!. Keep it up love each episode. See you soon.😊
He’s run out of gas so has been adding instant coffee to cold water if he’s desperate but has managed to find coffee most mornings whilst cycling along and into towns etc
I ran out of gas. I'm.having it cold which isn't too bad strangely enough.
Merino, no cream and a Brooks B17 did the trick for me... ;-) and thanks for another great video!
Hi Mat, watched all your videos on the TransAm 2024 trip so far, and I am very inspired, There is a lot of stuff on US coast to coast rides on YT, but your level of detail, insights, positivity and spot on British sense of humor beats it all!!! Thanks for that.🙏
I am planning on doing a similar ride/trip next year, starting in Missoula, MT heading to NYC.
A few questions popped up watching this episode and others, if you don't mind ...
1. Do you have to filter the water you get from public spots (22:30), restrooms, etc.?
2. What Schwalbe tires do you use and what is the width? I am aiming for Schwalbe G One Speed, 30mm ...
3. What camping setup do you use? (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad)
4. Any critical encounters with dogs? What do you do? Pepper Spray?
5. How did you find these nice camping spots pre-'Bike Nonstop' route? ACA maps? Did you purchase them? Hard copy / GPX data?
Sorry many questions. There is no hurry on answers here. Enjoy your ride to the Atlantic ocean, ride safe and rock on, my friend!!! Thanks in advance.
PS.: Deschutes IPA is my favorite beer. My eyes sparkle everytime I see those popping up in your videos. They make me pay a fortune for those in Thailand.
Hi. Good luck with your trip. I'm glad you find these videos useful.
I haven't filtered any water from public spots and have been fine so far.
I have Schwalbe Marathon Almotion TLE tubeless tyres at 38mm. They've been great. No flats.
I have a ZPacks Duples 2 man tent, a Thermarest XLite wide pad and a 20 degree Revelation Designs quilt.
I've had no issues with dogs. They chase but that's all. I have bear spray because I went through Yellowstone and haven't dropped it off yet so I suppose that would be a last resort.
Pre BNS I had the ACA downloadable maps. They have all the information you need for camping, resupplying etc.
That Deschutes IPA is good stuff.
Cheers.
@@matryderadventures Thanks for your priceless feedback.
Mat - saddlesores, I use the same Ergon SMC saddles, they are very comfy on the sit bones but are quite wide further forward which suits an upright riding position, might be worth trying to raise your bars if possible to sit a bit more upright, I think that will help more than lowering the saddle nose as the problem area is further back near the pivot point - keep pedalling!
Thanks for the advice. Cheers
Tough watch to start with Mat as the conditions and roads seemed to be beating you down, glad you found a great rail trail, hopefully you’ll find lots more scenic stress free cycling as you continue. Happy the Kona is doing a good job. Stay safe and be lucky Mat
The purpose is to follow your desires and enjoy the journey. Plus, you're sharing your experience with all of us and inspiring our own adventures. Thanks for taking the time to film the beautiful shots over the bridges, the wildflowers, and simply bringing us along.
Doing well with adventure. The bridge film is glorious, you do well with the filming. Following you wishing I were as good riding. Great job.
Matt .. would have killed to have a rails to trails path on some of my cross country rides. What good luck.
Regarding your saddle sores:
My personal research into this issue has led me to conclude that the number 1 issue is the saddle itself, second is hygiene.
Padded saddles are terrible for long rides. Best are the leather (like Brooks) or composite.
As for hygiene, I have no doubt that you're keeping clean, but, it's also your clothing. If you aren't washing it properly, it's a problem. A proper wash involves temperature above 50C, with a quality detergent, followed by a rinse with a little rinse agent, then a thorough rinse with fresh water. In between each of those, a "spin" cycle, or thorough "wring out" is required, in order to remove as much as possible before the next step.
Thanks for the information. It all makes great sense.
The wind never gets tired...
big thanks for sharing From dallas fellow biker
Would love to see inside one of the supermarkets you shop in..give us a cheeky glimpse please 😊
So sorry to hear about the saddle sores getting worse. Ive heard of that rail trail in Nebraska. Very nice and gets you safe and off the road. Glad things are working out with the bike.
Love your videos, you have brilliant editor! Lol. I'm sure your an inspiration to many.
Saw your interview on trailmark podcast, you've inspired me to also look at some negative habits.
Currently training to do the Shropshire cycle way, never bikepacked before though wild camp regularly.
Good luck. And can't wait for the next vid.
I have an '05 Sutra; they are solid bikes, love the steel frame. I think your chainrings are 46/30, not the 40/36 you mentioned. Probably the long days and headwinds were getting to you. I think it was Tom Cuthbertson's 1972 book, Bike Tripping, in which he remarked that ideally you should always tour with at least one other person, so that you have somebody to bitch to about the headwinds. Glad we can provide a sympathetic ear for you. Totally agree that taking a day off (about once a week, ideally) is essential when touring, particularly when traveling solo, in order to keep things fun.
It's been a great bike. Thanks for the correction. You're absolutely right. I love the Tom Curhbertson wind observation.
Hey Matt, How come your not cooking any meals. .
Througherly enjoying your adventure, but would love to see you cook something on your stove.
I ran out of gas a while ago and seen to be able find food along the way. I'm really bored of rice and noodles but will try to be a bit more creative.
Hang in there Mat! Your doing awesome!!
Good job ROLL ON 🚴🚴 riding around 10 thousand miles a year here in Kentucky
What helps me is to ride with a mirror. When the shoulder is rough or debris filled, I can ride on the main road and get off when traffic is coming.
I knew as soon as you said you got yanked out of your spot by the police that you were in Nebraska lol, also keep some pepper spray handy cuz there's a lot of farm dogs running around aimlessly...flat as far as the eye can see, and windy... but at least there's trees for shade...unlike N Dakota...good stuff 🥓🥓
Enjoying following you. Swapping saddles occasionally is a big help. I had to do this on a ride down the coast of California. Those inclines in the Appalachians you'll soon encounter are quite intense even if the mountains are not as tall as the Rockies. Watch out for dogs in the south. Even more important is that if you here dueling banjos, pedal as fast away as you can.
the Asphalt cracks every thirty feet.....those are stress cracks from the winter freeze cycle. They can't be avoided. And yes, they suck, AS do the "rumble strips" we put in the edge of the highways.
Yeah, still awesome videography.
And True Grit.
In reading Lance Armstrong’s book, I’d learned he had used Triamcinolone Acetonide and is what I used to help a saddle sore. It does require a prescription, but, is worth a try.
Hi Mat 👋
I hope that the secret WiFi woman didn't download any data-logging software onto your phone ... 🤨
It's a shame that those cops didn't have any gangsta felons to chase after for excitement, evicting a well-spoken cycling Englishman seems a bit dull in comparison.
The drone footage over that wooden rail trail bridge was something else, it really did it for me!
Well done Larry, meeting people like him is what a big part of cycle touring is all about 🙂
Thanks Mat 👍
Edit; the final few seconds of drone footage of the video, oh wow, just wow! Thanks for that Ross 👌
Hi Tony. Hope you're doing well. There are clearly no felons in Nebraska aside from me. I missed the end of the video. I always clock off too early. I'll watch again.
@@matryderadventures
Cheers Mat 🙂
Yes, you do look a bit of a shady perp.
The outro of the bridge crossing was just fantastic, well worth a second watch. Ross clearly knows what your customers want and desire.
All the best going forward 🚲👍
That rail trail looks nice, friend!
Hi, Matt! Glad you stopped at Dairy Queen for a break and some food. Don’t know what it is. But anytime I go on a long hike or bike ride and there is a DQ I have to stop and grab a bite to eat. Probably nostalgia from my childhood.
Ride on, brother! 🤙😎
Your new route is going to take you through Indiana? Did I see that correctly on the map in this episode? I'm following your dot. Okay, I was able to finish this video after getting back home. Definitely coming through Indiana!
Yes I'm in Indiana at the moment 👍