How to Bike Across the United States

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(14 Ratings)

If you're in Santa Monica, California and you have to get to Boston Harbor without a plane ticket, grab your bike and ride across the United States!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Determine your route.
Step 2

Get on your loaded bike.
Step 3

Ride the first leg, between 40 and 60 miles, to your campsite.
Step 4

Leave early the next day.
Step 5

Ride in a gear easier than necessary for the first 10 miles to work out sore muscles.
Step 6

Identify any mountain passes on your map.
Step 7

Ride 40 to 60 miles per day, until you reach your first mountain range.
Step 8

Stop at the base of the mountain pass for the night.
Step 9

In the morning, bike over the pass. Repeat pattern until you are through the mountain range.
Step 10

Continue along your route, ideally at a rate of 300 to 600 miles per week.
Step 11

Take one day off per week for sightseeing and rest.
Step 12

Repeat until you reach your destination.

Tips & Warnings

If you hit a headwind, particularly in the plains or the desert, ride at daybreak and at the end of the day. Rest during the middle of the day, when winds are highest.
Carry plenty of water and drink frequently.
Avoid riding farther than you can comfortably each day. You'll pay the price the next day.
Avoid big cities. Traffic is unpleasant after weeks on an open road.
Remember to put sunblock on the back of your knees, your calves and your fingers where they stick out of your cycling gloves.
Backroads Bicycle Tours, Vermont Cycling and the Adventure Cycling Association offer tours and information. Adventure Cycling's maps are well known for cross-country routes.
If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.