3 million revolutions are the number of times my bicycle tires need to go around in order to complete the 4200 mile cycling adventure across America. I am planning to start the journey in mid May, targeting completion in mid to late August. If you've checked out anything about cycling across country, you would quickly realize that this is not a break-neck pace. In addition to the personal challenge, the purpose of the ride is to see the country, meet the people and appreciate the ability to make a dream into a reality.
The idea took on added texture when it was linked to the goal of raising money for a small, New Jersey based charity called Middle Earth. There are no hobbits here, but rather a dedicated group of individuals that serve community kids that are most in need of assistance. I have been a member of Middle Earth's Board of Trustees for over a year and continue to be amazed at the impact the organization. More details can be found under the About Middle Earth tab.
The Route
The route that I am taking follows the Transamerica Bicycle Trail, an established path that covers nearly 4,200 miles across 10 states (see map below). The route starts in Virginia with the tradition of dipping the rear wheel in the Atlantic Ocean and continues through Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, before heading north through Wyoming and Montana, then across Idaho and ending on the Oregon coast. The ride is officially completed when the front tire is dipped into the Pacific ocean.
The ride will be fully supported in that I will only be cycling, and not carrying all my supplies. My husband, Paul, will be joining me with a vehicle as my part time cycling partner and full time support team. Some friends and family have expressed interest in joining and I really hope they do, but, for now I am essentially planning to ride the route solo.
I will be traveling from East to West, bucking the conventional wisdom of riding with the prevailing wind and weather patterns. There is something about the head-West, pioneer spirit that appeals to me. Also, although there is probably evidence to the contrary, it seems to me that the sense of adventure heightens further away from home.
Trans America Bicycle Trail or 3 Million Revolutions
