Cycling the Erie Canal Bike Trail
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ก.ย. 2024
- Cycle the Erie Canalway Bike Trail, a 365 mile corridor from Buffalo to Albany, New York. It makes no difference if you call it bike tripping, bikepacking or bicycle touring, it's a great 5 day ride. Bike through lots of quaint cozy little towns along the canal that date back to before the 1820's. It's a legendary ride! If you LIKE the video, hit the LIKE button, share it with a friend and subscribe.
Read:
Cycling the Erie Canal by Parks and Trails New York amzn.to/3FLMuId
Basic Illustrated Bike Touring and Bike Packing amzn.to/3tJvsrQ
Links to some of my gear:
Arkel Panniers shrsl.com/3cpv0
Trek Bicycles www.avantlink....
Nashbar www.avantlink....
REI www.avantlink....
Showers Pass Rain Jacket www.avantlink....
Eastern Mountain Sports shareasale.com...
CampingMaxx shrsl.com/3cpv8
Nutcase Helmets www.avantlink....
DJI Mini Mavic 2 Drone click.dji.com/...
DJI Pocket 2 Gimbal 4K Camera click.dji.com/...
Wald 1066 Handlebars amzn.to/3fLRHVH
RedShift Shock Absorbing Handlebar Stem amzn.to/3IBu3If
Cateye Velo 9 Bike Computer amzn.to/3AhqDag
Terry Liberator Y Men's Bike Saddle amzn.to/3FNp0Cq
High Visibility Vest amzn.to/3rFgIrw
Reflective Safety Triangle amzn.to/32kJN2M
MSR Pocket Rocket Ultralight Camp Stove amzn.to/3AdNB26
Sea to Summit Bowl amzn.to/3AhqDag
Canon M50 Mirrorless Camera amzn.to/3tIEIwy
GoPro Hero 8 Camera amzn.to/3rywX9x
Rode Video Mic Pro + amzn.to/3IohlMv
Neewer Compact Travel Tripod amzn.to/3qLalTW
They just finished the trail this fall, all the way to Albany no more on / off road biking.
That's good news! Thanks again.
Thanks for this inspiring video Paul! Since I am in Canada, near Buffalo, I have wondered about adding it to my "BikeIt" list. Now, thanks to your video, I will as Covid-19 settles down. I will think of you, these videos and our Arkel panniers that we share as I go! Now I'm going to "Go ride my bike"!
Thanks for watching! Spring is here. Time to get out and ride. I love my Arkels. Hope to see you down the road.
This is such an awesome trail. Growing up in the city of Syracuse you see everything Erie Canal!!!! Such a huge part of history. Come to find out throughout my lineage their were several ancestors who were canal workers
The Erie canal is an epic ride. So much history. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!
Roughly how many miles did you do ? Did you doing any tent camping ? Did you have any flats or bike problems? I so want to do that then to Manhattan!
It was about 350 miles in 5 days. I stayed in motels every night and did not camp out. I had no problems with my bike on that trip, not even a flat tire. It's an awesome trail, have a great ride!!
I just finished riding this trail on my Brompton (folding bike). I made it into a 10 day tour. Had a great time! It was awesome to revisit the places I just rode through in your video. Thank you!
I saw that. Cool bike! Great adventure. Thanks again! I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the trail. Ride on!
Watching this video last year inspired me to ride the ECT this year (2022). I just got home from this ride a couple of days ago. In rewatching this video, I can appreciate the improvements the NY Parks and Trail organization have implemented. I was especially wowed by the biking infrastructure in Buffalo, Syracuse, and Albany. There are still some on-road sections, but not as many as I think there were in this video. There’s still a “single track” section, and thankfully, I didn’t have to negotiate a path through with oncoming bike traffic. LOL! The western half on the towpath is definitely the more scenic section with the canal towns. It was a great ride, and one I’ll probably do again some day. Thanks for the inspiration Paul!
Thanks for watching. The Erie canal is a great ride. Stay safe out there and ride on!
I’m training to do this ride sept 2022. I’ve read a lot about the trail but appreciate your video. It is MUCH more primitive in parts than I expected - reminding me a bit of the C&O which I did 3 years ago.
Thanks for the video!
The C&O is a great trail too. I rode it this past summer. Video coming soon. Thanks again for watching! Have a great ride!!
Paul, You are a great communicator: informative, humorous. I bet you’re a great teacher as well.
Dude, thank you. I take that as a blessing and I needed that. Bless you too!
I've ridding that trail since is was a kid, it was a bicycle highway for us and a way to get from town to town and find girls and explore
It's a classic ride. I didn't find any girls, though. Thanks and Ride on!
Paul, I really enjoyed this video - very nicely done! It was fun to compare this Towpath ride with our's here in MD on the C&O Canal Towpath. I see similarities but a lot of differences too. The Erie Canal Towpath ride seems to me to be a nice combination of the C&O Canal Towpath experience combined with that while riding the Great Allegheny Passage rail trail all but all rolled into the same bike trail. It is nice that this trail goes through all these historic towns - make for a lot of good history lessons and also provides easy access to services. You don't have to wonder where the heck you are going to get water, something to eat and a comfortable place to spend the night!! I would have loved to ride with you on this adventure. Looking forward to your next video.
Thanks Bud. We need to go riding sometime. Maybe this summer on the C&O.
A lot of people don't realize that New York State is really beautiful. Once you get out of the city it's very nice. Prices are very high though . Buying food and lodging may come with a little sticker shock but it's worth it.
Thanks for watching. I agree. I've never been to NYC. But Upstate NY and the Finger Lakes are very nice. Niagara Falls was amazing. Thanks again!
Great video !! I've enjoyed all of your bike excursions. Keep up the great content. I am curious if you opted for the Amtrak on this trip to get back to your starting point. How did you make the return to your car ? I'm making my own plans to do this trip in much the same fashion and have the same question as to the best way to return to the start. Thanks !! Jim D / Greenville, SC
Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it. I parked at a hotel in Lockport, they were kind enough to let me. I rode to Albany, took the train back to Depew and rode back to Lockport, it was only a few miles. If I were to do it again, I would park at the Amtrak station an Albany. They have long term parking for a fee. Take the train to Buffalo on the front end. Ride from Buffalo to Albany, pick up my car and drive home. Hope that helps. Thanks again. Stay safe and ride on!!
Omg, I can't believe I found you! Mr. Suchecki! My favorite teacher of all time! You were literally one of the biggest reasons I fell in love with science and nature. Thank you so very much for everything you gave us students of yours! So happy to see that you're still biking. You rock!
You are too kind. You Rock!
@@paulsuchecki3985 I'm married with four kids now, but my name used to be Molly Turner. Don't know if you remember me, but yeah. I always wondered if you were still biking. Always thought it was really cool you'd biked to Cali and back. Can't imagine the kind of adventure that must bring to your life. So awesome!
@@mollyhernandez2385 Yes, I remember Molly Turner. Awesome! Raising 4 kids must be an adventure as well!
How cool is that Paul? One of your students finds your video and is thrilled that you are still out there on your bike chasing another adventure!
Moz 4213 - it was really thoughtful of you to acknowledge the impact that Paul had on you as a teacher regarding your love for science and nature. We teachers (I taught science too) are always heartened to hear from former students, especially when they tell us that we have helped them appreciate those things that we had a passion for. You do Rock!!
Yes, very cool!
I'm really enjoying your fantastic videos. The country seems like it needs to be bigger for people like you👍
Thanks. Cycling across the country does make it seem a little smaller. Keep on pedaling! 😎
Not surprising you were a science teacher. Science guys seem to love outdoors. My 8th grade science teacher quit in mid-year because he got a job he had long hoped for as a Park Ranger at Yosemite. Got to follow your dreams I guess!
I love the outdoors, too. Follow your dreams! Thanks again!
nice,, though i do enjoy your commentary on the videos! your a natural story teller.. today the first finisher of TransAm reached Yorktown,, what an extreme accomplishment
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it! Ride on!!
Wow, this is a great video, thanx for taking us with you ! Did you have to pack your bike in a box to take the train home ? Did you get to keep it with you ?
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. That train route allows "roll on" service, so I didn't have to box up my bike. Stay safe out there and ride on!!
This video is super good, I really enjoy your stuff. You have inspired me, I think next spring im going to bike from Galena to Carbondale to visit my uncle along the Mississippi river trail. Thank you for these videos. My dad died a month back, and he wasnt exactly a bike tour type person, but he would ride his bike from our town of Rockford IL to Maquoketa Iowa to see a girlfriend, so I suppose he is sort of an inspiration for me too. Anyhow, im getting way off track, love your videos
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I'm sorry to hear about your Dad. I'm glad to be an inspiration, but please be safe out there. I'm currently recovering from a crash. I was riding south along the Mississippi River not far from Rock Island. Stay safe and ride on!!
@@paulsuchecki3985 Thanks so much, and I will be :) I hope you feel better soon, I am just terrified of ever getting into a crash
I live in Lockport, right where this starts. I may have to do this.....
It's a great ride. Take the train home from Albany. Have fun and stay safe!
I'm loving your videos! Gets me thinking about another tour. =).
I would love a video where you rate and talk about your 10 most favourite bike tours.
Great idea!! I'm working on it. Thanks for watching. Stay safe out there!
I agree with west to east travel. Wind usually at your back.
That's the way I would go. Your chances for tailwind are better but not certain.
Great job Paul. I'm all packed and ready to go on the trail tomorrow. I've done Syracuse to Albany. Now I'm going from Syracuse to Buffalo. I'm doing an out and back. Just looking over some vids before I go and came across this one. Nicely done.
Have a great trip!!😎
Thank you for putting this together! Awesome video.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate it!
Yes a great video. Living in the UK we don't get to see much of your lovely country, mainly east or west coast and not the in between countryside. If you are ever this side of the pond then the Midi Canal in France is an enjoyable ride, a canal which connects the Atlantic to the Med.
Thanks again for watching. I do hope to ride in Europe some day. Thanks for the tip. I had not heard of the Midi Canal but it sounds like something I would like. Thanks again.
Great post Paul, I love canals, great international history to them. I was born and bread very close to one, and I am hoping to ride the the Royal Canal Greenway, Longford to Dublin this summer 130km each way. Goodman keep up the good work.
Sorry about the late response. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Sounds like a great plan. I also like the canal tarils and rail trals as well. One day I hope to ride in Ireland and England. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!!
Paul, your videos are awesome! My wife enjoy watching your adventures and plan our own. Can't wait for spring break for our next tour.
Thanks for watching! I feel the same way, I can't wait to get out and bike tour again. I've got big plans! Hope to see you on the road.
Very informative and scenic. I was surprised to see so few people anywhere! Upstate NY is just so beautiful when on a bicycle! 🥰
Thanks for watching. Between the bigger cities, the trail was pretty quiet. The closer you get to populated areas, the busier things get. The Erie Canal is a great trail. Ride on!
i am gonna ride it one day. for sure
The Erie Canal is a great bike trip! Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it. Stay safe out there! Ride on!
Man that looks like great riding.
Yeah Man, its great riding. Thanks for watching!
Sir, you are my new favorite Bike Touring/Packing TH-camr. Great vids!
Glad to hear it! That means a lot. Thanks for watching.
Paul. Thanks for your inspiration. You inspired me to try touring and now there is no looking back. Keep on keeping on man and THANK YOU.
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Please, stay safe out there. I am currently recovering from a crash. But I hope to be riding again soon. Ride on!!
@@paulsuchecki3985 PAUL! I hope you are okay man! Any crash is bad, but i hope yours was not serious. Praying you are back on the bike and feeling well soon. As a daily commuter to work on my bike, I know it is only a matter of time until I have some sort of crash or mishap. Hope you get well soon Paul, stay positive and like some guy told me....."Now go ride your Bike"...when you can if course!
my next bicycle tour
The Erie canal is a great ride. Have fun!!
Great video.
Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it.
Love your videos. Thanks for sharing and it inspires me, at 68, to bike more.
Thanks for watching. Inspiration, eh? Then it's working! I'm only 57. I told my students that I wanted to be able to ride my bike across the country when I'm 70. One of them replied, "so you want to be one of those really fit old dudes." I'd never thought of it that way, but yeah. I guess I want to be one of those really fit old dudes. Thanks! You inspire me!
Getting ready to ride it in a little less than two months and this is an absolutely outstanding video. Thanks so much for posting it. I've done the GAP + C&O so I have a feel for bike touring, but this really helped to understand more what the ride is like!
Thanks for watching. Have fun. Ride on!
Really nice video. I really like the footage. I wonder how you captured the shots of you riding. Was someone with you; or did you use a tripod? Fun to watch. I liked the overview at the end.
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it! I set the camera up on a tripod and ride past it. Yeah, then you have to ride back and retrieve the camera. I now use an Insta360 camera for the "drive by's". It has a follow feature in editing.
Thanks again. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and Ride on!!😎
What a great adventure and path.
The Erie canal is a classic. Thanks for watching!
Good job .
Thanks!!
As usual another great video by Paul. I enjoy the historical facts you cite from time to time and the views of the actual path.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
So crazy question, but how did you get back to Lockport. That's basically in the middle of nowhere.
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I took the train back from Albany. I got off a couple of stops before Buffalo at a place called DePew around midnight. There is a motel (dive) that I stayed at a couple of blocks from the train depot. The next morning I rode to Lockport (about 6 miles) and retrieved my car. Stay safe and ride on!
Nice
Thanks.😎
I thought I left a message, but didn't, sorry. Amazing video and ride. I'm glad to see you had an upright bike but made it work for you. I'm getting older and my joints are starting to bug me, so may have to use your solution (good 'ol hips, knees and shoulder). Thanks for your video and inspiration (I'm 51 now, but plan to keep riding until my legs fall off) lol 🍻👍🏼🚵
Thanks for watching. I have some shoulder and neck issues that make an upright position much more comfortable. It's probably less efficient and puts more weight on the buttocks, but I'm in no hurry and at least I can still ride. Old? Yeah, I guess 51 is pretty old (just kidding LOL!!!) I'm 57. But like they say, it's not the years that matter, it's the miles. Like you, I plan on riding until it's just not physically possible. Makes me appreciate each ride that much more. Thanks again, hope to see you on the road!
@@paulsuchecki3985 Thanks again Paul! Once this Covid19 is over with, I hope to at least try a Buffalo to Rochester run. I'm still teaching, so hopefully by the summer, things are under control.
@@uhu69 Me too. Just got my 1st dose of Covid vaccine today. 2nd dose in 4 weeks. I am so ready!
@@paulsuchecki3985 I'm 75 and did an inn to inn New England Tour with Adventure Cycling. I was afraid I was too old (almost 74 at the time), but I had no problems. We did 40 to 55 miles with about 3000' elevation climb each day. Of course we also coasted down. I just got my 1st COVID shot and will get the booster in 24 days and the pandemic seems to be winding down - so I'm hopeful I can soon sing that Erie Canal song as I pedal along there - inspired by Paul.
@@RichR711 I'm 57. I was telling my students that I want to be able to ride my bike across the country when I'm 70. In order to do that I will have to ride every summer between now and then. One of students replied, "so you want to be one of those really fit old guys". I thought to myself, "Exactly!!" Keep on rolling, I hope to see you down the road. Thanks again!
Really fun to watch! Thanks!
Another great trip, Paul. I remember hearing that, when the Erie Canal was in full swing, Troy NY had the highest per capita income in the US.
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The Erie Canal is an epic route. Lots of history. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!
Trying to figure out what you’re carrying that you need 4 panniers. You’re staying in motels!
Way too much stuff. I like my luxury items. I carry camping gear "just in case".
Paul, great video, thanks for creating this.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Solid video and storytelling. Thanks for the tour !
Glad you enjoyed it!
Doing this trail! Starting Aug. 28,2023 !❤
Sounds like a great ride! Have fun and stay safe. Thanks for watching. Hope to see you down the trail.
Also did you camp or hostel? I think you said hotel. But that sounds weird.
Stayed at hotels mostly, some were weird.
👍
👍
I don't mean to sound selfish but is there Albany to NYC?
The Erie Canal Trailway ends at Albany. There might be other New York state trails, but I am not aware of them. I'm not from New York State, so I'm not familiar with that area. Happy Trails!
Paul, thanks for your work. Any mosquitoes?
Thanks for watching! If there is standing water, there are mosquitoes. So, Yes.
How did you avoid sleep. You look like charles bukowski.
Not sure what you mean?
Loved this! Thanks for sharing.
You are so welcome!
Great video. I hope I get the chance to do this tour sometime soon. Thanks!
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The Erie Canal is a great ride. Lots of history. Stay safe and ride on!
Nice ride. You put a lot of effort into great videos!!
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it! Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!
Did you have to charge your phone?
Yes.
Which sections are paved path?
Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I had to dig up my guide book for the trail. I've only ridden it once and so I'm not real familiar with all of the trail conditions. The guide book seems to show that most of the trail is unpaved. But, the paved sections seem to be in or near cities, like Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany. I rode the trail 2 years ago and some sections may have been upgraded. The book I have is dated 2015, so it may not be totally accurate. Check out: "Cycling the Erie Canal" put out by the Parks and Trails of New York. I hope that helps. Thanks.
Awesome!!!
Thanks!!
Nice video. My great-grandmother used to live in Jordan, NY near the Erie Canal. After watching this, I'm thinking of cycling the section of the Canalway between Albany and the south-eastern shore of lake Oneida. Keep up the good work -- I enjoy your videos.
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The Erie Canal is a great ride. Have fun. Stay safe and ride on!
Great video of our wonderful Erie Canal Pathways...what a gem of a resource NYS has...good job...Paul!
Thanks for watching. The Erie canal is awesome!. Enjoy the ride.
Great video…great ride!
Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!!
Hey Paul- Really enjoy your videos. I am about the same age as you and have an itch to do a solo week long tour along the Erie Canal. I’ve done one day trips 50-60 miles on my Electra Townie. Could I do a full week with that bike or should I invest in a touring bike ? Lots of butt pain with regular bikes that I don’t get with a townie. Plus it’s upright. However - I only go about 10 mph on my Townie.
I'm not familiar with E-bikes. Although I'm starting to see them everywhere. My guess is that in 2 or 3 years everyone will have one. Riding a regular bike is obviously harder. The E-bike is probably more comfortable. I guess it comes down to how much excercise you want/need versus how comfortable do you want/need to be. The Erie Canal is a great place to test it out. Have fun!
Watched your video as we are riding Erie Canalway in August. Then found that you live in Southern Illinois, so do we. Rode the Ohio to Erie last year and back to the C/O & GAP next year. If you haven't done the C/O & GAP I highly recommend it, it's our favorite Rails to Trails. Thanks for your excellent videos.
Team Rawhides
I've rode the GAP and C&O in 2012. Awesome trail. I'm planning on hitting again, maybe this summer. Safe travels.
I have done a week-long bicycle trip every year, but alas not during the year of COVID19. Now vaccinated and the pandemic seemingly winding down I'm inspired by Paul to hopefully do this thing during the fall 2021. I am impressed with his technology - not just the Go-Pro video camera, but the drone (I guess) to get the bird's eye view. I would travel the same way - between hotels. Thank you, Paul!
Thanks for watching!. I also was grounded for 2020, other than short local rides. I've already been vaccinated and have big plans for 2021. I just have to get back in shape. I hope to see you down the road. Thanks again!!
You’re hilarious
Thanks again. 😁
Another nice video Paul. Thanks for all your great trip reports. Question, did you convert your Miyata to 700C from 27s and if your did how much trouble did you have with the geometry for the calipers? I'm considering converting my old Raleigh Touring 18 so that I can put a set of 35 or 38mm tires on it.
Thanks for watching! Yes I did convert from 27" to 700C. The Miyata 1000 has cantilever brakes and it was no problem. I just had to adjust the position of the pads. If you have caliper brakes it might be different. Where the brake pad attaches to the caliper, it should be slotted. This allows moving the pads up or down to adjust for different size wheels. It's a small range, but 27" anf 700C are pretty close. The advantage to 700C is you usually have a better selection of tires. Thanks again. Ride on!
Hi, Paul. You did such a great job with this video -- all the video recording, editing, and narration. You produced a terrific video that's entertaining, educational, and enjoyable. I'd love to ride this route one day. By the way, is your Miyata a road bike that you converted into a touring bike, and because you stayed at hotels, what did you pack in your panniers? Spare clothing, toiletries, water/drinks, snacks, tools, first aid, etc.? Liked and subscribed.
Thanks!!!! My bike is a Miyata 1000. It's a 1987 touring bike. Back in the day it was one of the finest touring bikes on the road. They don't make 'em anymore. It's an old bike but almost every thing has been upgraded. Wheels, gears, seat, bars, shifters, levers. I like to stay in motels, but I still carry my tent and sleeping bag, just in case camping is the only option. I usually carry enough clothes for 5 or 6 days and do laundry when needed. I'm working on a video that describes all of my touring gear. I'll be posting it shortly after the new year. More details then. Thanks again for watching, liking and subscribing!! More videos to come shortly.
Thank you for sharing your trip on the Erie Canal, I was planning to do that this year (2020... 1 star.. don't recommend) Could you enlighten me on which train you took that allows bike on without being in a bike box? Thanks! RIDE ON!
It's an excellent trail, I highly recommend it. However in our current climate I would say "let the traveler beware". Personally, I have suspended all travel plans until further notice. Really sucks because I had big plans. But if you decide to go, enjoy and be safe!
I parked my car in Lockport, so I took the train from Albany to Depew. With Amtrak things can change, but they allowed Roll On service only on the last train of the day. It got in late, like after 12. I didn't like that. There are earlier trains, but they don't allow Roll On. I think you can still take your bike but you have to box it and check it as baggage. The best thing to do is check with the Amtrak station in Albany.
If I was to do it again, I would probably start in Albany. Park at the train station. They allow parking in a secure lot for 7 days. I would then ride to Buffalo and take the train back to Albany. Just an idea.
Anyways, Have Fun!!
Paul - I just started biking with some friends during the pandemic enjoying the scenery, workout and camaraderie along South and North County, Old Put, and other Greenways in and around NYC. The quality of your video in displaying the beauty, history, and the logistics, of a ride along the Eric Canal has already inspired me to start planning a similar trip. I fortuitously stumbled on your video researching riding the recently completed 750 mile Empire State Trail from NYC to Buffalo. Do you have any other videos or info. On continuing further south to NYC? Thanks and Happy New Year to you and yours.. Richard
I'm glad that you're getting out and riding. The Erie Canal is a great ride. I'm glad you used the word inspire because that was the whole purpose of the video, so I'm glad it worked! I'm not from the NY area, so I'm not a great source of info on bike trails in NY. I rode the Ohio to Erie trail in Ohio and made a video, another great ride, I recommend it. Almost all paved bike path from Cincinnati to Cleveland. There is the GAP and C&O trail from Pittsburg to Wash. DC. I rode it, but before my video making days. Awesome, get out and enjoy the trails. I think traveling through the landscape on bicycle is the best way to see experience it. Keep on biking, hope to see you on the road!
Nice video, we want to do the trail someday. How long is that section you called the Mohawk revier trail, that wasn't paved, or crushed stone? Thanks.
In 2019 when I rode the Erie Canal Towpath, very little was paved. Most of the trail was crushed stone. Some places are what they call "natural surface". Basically mud. I'm not from the area and I've only ridden the trail once. But judging from a quick look at the map, it looks like the trail follows the Mohawk River from about Rome to Troy, 80-100 miles. Get the book, "Cycling the Erie Canal". A wealth of information.
I was curious about your bike set-up, you seem very up right compared to many tourers. I was also wondering about your gear. I have a bunch of questions, the camping to hotel ratio, food, cooking vs. restaurants....maybe a nuts and bolts video?
I actually have old injuries in my lower neck and shoulder. II went through many handlebar changes, but being more upright takes most of the weight off of my hands, which reduces shock to my shoulders and spine. The upside is that I can ride almost pain free in my neck and shoulders, but it does transfer more weight to the saddle. I'm sure it's less efficient than a more crouched position, but I'm not really built for speed anyways. I see more things riding upright. For years i rode mostly looking at the pavement 3 feet in front of my front wheel. Now I can see the scenery. It does look weird, I don't like the look, but it's very comfortable.
I was thinking about a "nuts and bolts" video, and that might happen. My touring style and gear selection has evolved over the years. i used to camp out almost always with a rare motel stay if the weather was bad. Now that I'm older, I look for the motel first, even if cheaper camping options are available. But I carry a lightweight tent just in case camping is the only option.
Same with food. In my younger days it was grocery stores and cooking with an occasional restaurant, now it's the other way around. But again I do carry a lightweight stove, just in case.
When I rode the Erie Canal, I stayed at motels every night and ate at restaurants mostly. If at a grocery store I buy food that doesn't need to be cooked. I'm sure it's more expensive, but now that I'm older my tastes have changed and my budget has expanded a little.
The bottom line is, everybody's touring style is different. If I made a touring video about my rig and how I pack and how I ride, I think about 80% of bike tourers would say I was doing it all wrong. Not because I am, but because their way is different. I guess that's why I prefer to tour solo. I get to make all of my own decisions, and I am never wrong!
If you're just starting off bike touring and are looking for good information, I suggest that you check out Adventure Cycling Association. I don't know of a better source of good solid information in one spot.
Unfortunately I was not able to go bike touring in the summer of 2020, so I don't have any new touring videos coming out. I may have to do one of them nuts and bolts videos, just to keep my hand in it. I'm thinking about re-building one of my old touring bikes and making a video about that, and then maybe selling the bike. I dunno!
Very cool vid
Thanks
Wonderful video, we are going to ride our road bikes from Fort Erie to Albany and my concern whether our 25mm tires and road bike is appropriate. Is the road surface ok for doing this on a road bike? Thanks.
I run 32's on my road bike, even on well paved roads. I've never run 25's, they sound awefully thin. I wouldn't recommend it, but don't rely solely on my word. I suppose for about 80% of the path, 25's would probably work fine, especially if you are travelling light. Some of the path is crushed stone and is mostly hard packed, but there were some soft spots. There are also some areas that they call "natural surface" , it's basically mud. But that's probably less than 1% of the entire trail. It seemed like there was always a paved road alternative anywhere along the towpath in case the path looked questionable. Enjoy the ride, it's a great route. And thanks for watching my video!
"Can-ah-jo-hair-ee"
Thanks. That's a tough one for me. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it! Stay safe and ride on!
Paul: I am doing my research to ride this in 2022, your video has been informative and inspirational, cheers !
Thanks for watching. Glad it was helpful. Ride on!
Thanks for the video, Paul! Any thoughts on which portion of the trail was "nicest"? (Best scenery etc.) I'm trying to decide if to do a western or eastern portion. I was thinking Rome > Albany. From your comments though, seems like the western half is much less populated. Cheers!
I'm not from the area, locals would know the trail much better than me. But, yes it seems the western portion is less populated and more scenic. The canal is older and smaller. You're closer to Niagara Falls and the Finger Lakes region. The closer to Albany, more people. Although, the Schenectady area had some "old" charm to it. Enjoy the ride !!
Paul, i enjoyed your narration. Would you share about the gro pro setup attachment to your bike? I have one, but it moves alot while being attached to the handlebar.
Thanks for watching. When you say the go pro moves, do mean there is vibration in the shot? or the camera "walks" and changes position? I've tried a couple different ways of attaching the go pro to the handle bars of the bike. I just used an old broom stick (probably an inch or less in diameter) and cut it to about 12" long or so. Using 2 hose clamps, I attached it to the top of my stem so that the end of the stick extends beyond my handlebar bag, unless you want the top of the handlebar bag in the shot. I have a go pro attachment that clamps the camera to the end of the stick. I think that as long as the camera is firmly attached to something that is firmly attached to the stem (center of bike) rather than on the handlebars themselves, away from center, there should be less vibration.
I'm 71 and hope to ride the Erie Canal for the first time in June. I think I'll avoid the Budget Inn and tent wherever I can.
Thanks for watching. Have a great trip! Yeah, stay outta that budget inn. ,😆 LOL
It's the ride I wanted to do the most, but I'll get there one day. I still managed heaps of others like the Ohio/Erie, Panhandle, C&O, Gap, Katy and Trans Am.
So little time and so many roads. I'm thinking Pacific Coast Highway.
Just what I was looking for! Great video! Anybody knows if we could rent a bike at one end and return it at the other end? Red bikes or something like that.
Thanks for watching. I have not heard of any bike rentals that work that way. That's not to say that there aren't, I just don't know.
Paul, Nice video, Thank you . My son and I are riding the trail next month. We are riding all the way back to NYC and then out to Long Island a little longer then you rode. I was hoping to see what the trail looked like before getting on it.
Thanks for watching. The trail surface is varied over the entire route, be prepared. It's an awesome ride. Have a great trip.
Thank you so much for this informative video! I am a teacher as well, and as I was watching I told my husband that I thought you were most likely a teacher! Curious if you could share where you stayed at night. My husband and I are seriously considering making this trek in August of this year. Any suggestions you may have would be welcome. Thank you in advance and enjoy your travels!
Thanks for watching! I stayed at hotels along the way. The best suggestion I could give would be check out these websites.
www.cycletheeriecanal.com
www.ptny.org/canal tour
Also find this guidebook.
Cycling the Erie Canal
By the Parks and Trails New York.
I'm not from the NY area so I don't have detailed knowledge of the area. And post-Covid, some services might change.
It's a great trail, have a great trip.
What a well done video you made. Thanks for all these informations and wonderful pictures.
Glad you enjoyed it! The Erie Canal is a short tour with lots of American history. Thanks again for watching.
Great video. I'm planning my trip for this summer and this was very helpful.
Thanks for watching! Have a great trip.
i live in central ny near erie canal & just got a mountain bike. where did you get your upright handle bars ? gotta link ? how much did they cost ?
Wald products 16 by 6 by 1 high rise handle bars. Ordered them online for 13.99 plus shipping. I hope that helps. Thanks again.
i traded my fuji 12 speed road bike for genesis 2100 mountain bike. just finished upgrades. i have trek 930 for bikepacking. can you take bike on train from albany to buffalo ? i am thinking of going to niagara falls to toronto to ottawa to montreal to albany, thanks
th-cam.com/video/SDvYBCZwMIk/w-d-xo.html
@@jimball816 This is awesome, Thanks!
Great video, I liked the music very propelling. your editing and narration are real motivators, thanks.
Thanks for watching, I appreciate it!
Really enjoyed this, thanks for posting. Got me even more excited for my end to end next summer.
Thanks for watching! Enjoy the ride.
You are my inspiration to ride the entire canal/bike trail next summer. Awesome video!
I'm glad the video inspired you to ride, that was my purpose for making it. Thanks for watching!!! Enjoy the ride!
I did this weekend NYC to Albany. It was very very cool
Thanks for watching. I like the Erie Canal too. Enjpy!!
Great video. Thinking I might ride it in July and watching this reinforces my desire to do it. Thanks.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I hope you do ride the Erie Canal, it's a great tour. Enjoy!
Thanks Paul,great video! Wondering how you return home?
I drove my car to Lockport (just east of Buffalo) and parked it for 6 days at the motel I stayed at, the Lockport Inn and Suites. They said it was ok. I rode my bike to Albany and took the Amtrak back to Lockport (DePew). The Amtrak from Albany to Buffalo allows "roll-on" service for bicycles, but only on the late train. Leaves at like 6 or 7 pm and arrives after midnight. A bit inconvenient. During the day they do not allow roll-on service due to the high volume of commuters. If I were to do it again, I would drive to Albany, park at the Amtrak station (they allow long term parking in a protected lot). I would then take the train with my bike to Buffalo. Ride to Albany, retrieve my car and drive home from there.
Hey, Thanks for watching!
Fantastic video. Inspiring. Thank you! 🚲
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!
what a amazing video, very informative. I live in buffalo and love biking and never did this yet. I will now though
Awesome! Thanks for watching. Have a great ride!
Nice video. Good footage, good communications skills.
Thank you very much!
Good video Paul.
Thanks for putting it together and sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching.
Very nice video. Have ridden different sections but never the whole thing.
Thanks! It's a great trail.
Excellent video ... enjoyed seeing the trail through your eyes and comparing it to our trip 2 years ago.
Thanks man. I've been to your channel. You've been to a lot of cool places and have a lot of cool videos. Next summer I hope to do the Pacific Coast Highway. But my big goal is to ride to Alaska. I retire in 3 years, but I'd like to do it before then. Keep pedalin' .
Any advice from albany to manhattan ?
I wish I could help you on that one. I'm not from the NY area. I have no idea.
@@paulsuchecki3985 Thanks a lot man im gonna take this on hopefully in august when the border opens up !! inspiring
@@toothlessguy2544 Have a great trip!! Stay safe.
Love the video. I wish the music was quieter so we could hear your voice better.
Other people have said the same thing about another video of mine. It's hard to get the sound just right, especially with all of the background noise, so that it sounds good on every computer audio system. For instance it sounds different on my headphones compared to regular speakers. Plus too, I'm kind of an amateur at this using amateur equipment. But, I still have a lot to learn. Thanks for watching, and listening, and the feedback is invaluable!! More videos to come, hopefully made better because of helpful feedback like yours. Thanks.