Odyssey & Muse

This is a special episode of Odyssey and Muse. This is going to be the first of possibly many little in-between-isodes where we check in with people that are about to embark on or are in the middle of an adventure around the world. In this episode I talk with Russ McCoy of Man Bike World. He was the second person I interviewed for this podcast, episode 2, and he is the first repeat guest. “It’s 2,745 miles from Banff, Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico.” Russ has been on two big Bicycle tours and he is about to leave on his third in a few days. But this time he’s changing it up. He will be riding down the Great Divide mountain bike trail and spending a lot of time off-road for the first time. In this conversation, we talk about the differences in mountain biking verses his previous street tours, we dig into his anxieties, which include bear attacks, his philosophy on wearing helmets, last minute bicycle setup changes, and how he plans to update his blog along the way. “When bears are around, never eat at your camp.” We’re planning to catch up with him again when he’s halfway through the 2,745 mile journey, so make sure to check back for updates. If you want to hear more shows like this, rate us on iTunes and let us know. - - - - - 3 Key Takeaways The Great Divide mountain bike trail is a 2,745 mile run from Banff, Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. 85% of which is unpaved forest road. When traveling through bear country, never eat at your camp, never store food in your tent, which includes gum and toothpaste, and hang your food in a tree. There are sections of the Great Divide trail where you need to be able to carry or collect enough water for 4 to 5 days. Take water purification tablets, a filter and a way to carry 10 liters of water. - - - - - Show Notes (Man Bike World Pt. 1) Introduction to the Great Divide mountain bike trail [01:04] Review of Russ’s past bicycle tours [02:06] Explaining in detail, the Great Divide tour [06:03] The challenges of the tour [08:04] What makes Russ anxious about this tour [11:30] Last minute bicycle setup changes [16:05] DaBrim and the great helmet debate [20:33] What drives Russ to embark on these tours [25:01] Pros and cons of solo touring [26:31] What Russ is looking forward to the most on this tour and his blogging strategy [29:22]