Long Distance Bicycle Touring | Life Lessons, Why Age Doesn't Matter & More

[@HermannKerr]

I am old fart and as a younger person I did quite a few short week-long cycle tours. At the age 62 I started doing long distance touring. I came across a quote and I will pass it on to you, "A bad day on a bicycle is better than a good day at work".

[@williamspencer7067]

I think I need that tattooed on my leg....

[@ClaraFrancken]

I will remember that quote! Thanks for sharing 🌟

[@williamspencer7067]

Hermann--can I have your permission to use that quote elsewhere on social media? I think it is very strong, and I'd like to use it elsewhere.

[@HermannKerr]

@@williamspencer7067 Absolutely

[@williamspencer7067]

@@HermannKerr thank you!

[@johngdmntotnes]

Just like William I started cycling to get away from a troubled home life and ended up travelling around western Europe. I discovered the world from a bicycle and learned many things that I would not have learned if I had not had the privilege to do this. I have returned to cycling to satisfy my interest in sustainability and to reconnect spiritually with nature and with myself. I am happiest on my bicycle, I am free and the world is a wonderful place when I cycle. I am enormously inspired by William's journey, we must learn from each other.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I'm happy you can connect with William! Do you still cycle often up to date then?😊

[@williamspencer7067]

Ranye: yes, the link between cycling and sustainability is important. When gasoline runs dry, the bicyce will still roll! I am so happy that my account inspires you. Yes, we can learn so much from each other

[@ingeleonora-denouden6222]

Thank you. I totally agree with William. I started bicycle touring in my teenage years (1970s), but then (because of husbands and children) didn't do it for decades. Then, when my second husband died, I decided to restart doing bicycle-camping-trips. This year is the fifth year doing so. Because of issues (health of my 90 y.o. mother getting bad) this year I could go for only one week. Other years I went on a three-week trip, or on two different two-week trips. Always camping in a tent at small camp grounds (in nature or at a farm). My advice: it doesn't matter where you go, as long as you're on your bicycle, it's a nice trip!

[@williamspencer7067]

Inge. Lovely advice: it doesn't matter where you go, as long as you're on the bicycle. Yes! As someone else said, a bad day on a bicycle is better than a good day at the office!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for sharing this, I'm very happy that you enjoy traveling with your bike so much! I hope you'll have beautiful upcoming trips next :)

[@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter]

Keep on enjoying your trips Inge. My wife and I know what it is like caring for her aged Aunt and her mother. So we know how important a bit of respite is when you are a carer. You are an inspiration.

[@2wheelsrbest327]

That is interesting to read Leonora as I once met Anne Mustoe who was soon to set off to tour America and having done so suffered a heart attack and died. But like you her motivation for starting to bike tour was when she lost her husband. Having had a fleeting conversation with Anne I took comfort from knowing she died doing what she loved. Surely thats what most of us would love to happen to us when our time comes.

[@willemjohannes9007]

So many things William says resonate with my experience bike touring. The first tour I did was with a friend I met right at the beginning of my ride. He was 70 years old when we finished the TransAmerica trail together - I was 22 at the time. He definitely struggled through it more than I did - he had to walk a fair portion of the hills. But I've always so admired his tenacity and grit. Another guy I toured with for a few weeks has thing thing he likes to do called the "7 o'clock gas station chill". We would roll into a small town, sit at the local gas station around 7:00 pm and just wait to see what happened. A huge portion of the time we'd be approached by locals who were interested in what we were doing. It would almost invariably lead to us being offered drinks, a meal or a place to stay, totally unprompted. It was to the point where he would often rely on that, rather than booking a campsite or a hotel. As William says, it's an absolutely life-changing way to travel.

[@williamspencer7067]

Ha! I love that.. the 7-o-clock chill. Yes, when you are on a bicycle, you develop the patience and belief in serendipity that allows you to approach life in this way. And, being on a bicycle definitely brings out the best in people. In recent years, when doing credit-card touring in Europe, and not planning ahead for where to sleep--which is my preferred MO--I would stop at a cafe or bar and ask if they have ideas about where I could stay--invariably, word spreads and a host of people all become intent on helping me find a place to sleep. Most people have such open hearts, it is humbling. It also has lead me to be on the lookout for times when I can help others--on bicycles and not.

[@grantmartin6094]

So cool! I’m 26, trying to convince my dad to do Blue Ridge Parkway with me. He used to cycle when I was young and is still fit! Hope he comes with me.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@grantmartin6094 I hope you'll be able to convince him, that sounds like a great experience for both of you!

[@rutgershumanist5136]

Elements of the archetypal Hero's Journey - leaving home to face a series of physical and mental challenges in an uncertain landscape, then returning with new wisdom, strength and humility.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Yes indeed!! I didn't look at it like that yet, but very true😯😍

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes, and with unexpected allies along the way.

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

You may be interested: I've now set up a KZbin channel with tips about long-distance cycling: www.youtube.com/@bikepackingandbicycletouring

[@josheichenhorn8631]

“Be an ambassador of your values” is an incredible piece of life advice. Thank you , Clara. Great story.

[@ClaraFrancken]

yes it is!! I'm glad you enjoyed the story of William! I loved listening to his experience and life lessons a lot too :)

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks for picking up on that! Let’s hope we all try to do that…

[@edzporn]

Ive always been a cyclist and read “Fat man on a Bike” by Tom Vernon many years ago .,but work and family ...... In my mid 60s I found myself “ time rich “ and completed 3 French end to ends.Each time going fully kitted for lightweight camping with occasional Youth Hostel a inexpensive hotels. That journey to India was an epic . I’m now 75 and thinking I’ve got one last big trip in me

[@williamspencer7067]

Bravo. France is just so perfect for cycling. Where do you imagine you might go for your “last” long trip?

[@ClaraFrancken]

amazing! Thanks for sharing :) I'd ask the same question as William :)

[@benreyes1]

I just celebrated my 66th birthday by doing a ride from Charlotte, North Carolina to Waterloo, Iowa via St Louis, Missouri. Just had to get on Route 66! :-)

[@williamspencer7067]

Yay! Good for you. Route 66, eh? I hope you were singing a Route 66 song to the beat of your turning pedals.

[@benreyes1]

@@williamspencer7067, forgot that part, but went directly to Ted Drewe's Frozen Custard on RT 66 in St Louis, a famous icon, selling custard since 1941.

[@williamspencer7067]

@@benreyes1 As a Brit, it seems wrong for custard to be served cold…. Hot with apple pie is the only way to go, in my tribe…

[@bob-ny6kn]

@@williamspencer7067 the very sweet and creamy American Ice Cream is (egg) custard based. There are other (factory) ice creams, but small-batch, custard based are the favorite. I've had hot custard and pie, which was also very good.

[@williamspencer7067]

@@bob-ny6kn Glad you've had both the UK and the US version of heaven...

[@mitchelleft7248]

so inspiring, i love wheel to wander their story aswell, they cycled basicly all over the world

[@ClaraFrancken]

hi, thank you for sharing that, do they have a youtube channel or a book as well?

[@mitchelleft7248]

@@ClaraFrancken yes they do, kzbin.info there you go :) great journey 🖼🖼🖼

[@williamspencer7067]

Wow: sounds like a great journey...

[@katjak2032]

Lovely video and glad I watched it. As I mentioned to you in Reddit, a comfortable handlebar that is not only ergonomic but can provide different hand positions is a bonus when on long rides. I will watch this video many times over in the future and share to others who may find it useful

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes! Butterfly handlebars are a must! For me, that plus an upright riding position make long days in the saddle much easier on my neck, shoulders, back, arms and wrists.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you so so much that is very kind of you! Thank you also for your help on reddit!

[@londoncenturies]

William's words really touched me and, I imagine, lots of others who find peace and connection as a bike passes through nature - slow enough to be grounded but fast enough to be free. Thanks for the video Clara.

[@williamspencer7067]

I'm glad you were inspired. Where do you cycle? Do you do long distance?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for your kind message, I'm so happy that his story touched you! I'm also curious to read your answers on William's questions to you ^^

[@londoncenturies]

@@williamspencer7067 Hi William, I'm in London so I ride out of town, there's great countryside around here and the contrast between whizzing through the city to single track roads with moss up the middle is still a thrill. As for distance, I like going out for a day but occasionally go a bit longer. Once I got as far as Bulgaria but that was a long time ago.

[@londoncenturies]

meant to say 'and Clara'!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@londoncenturies That sounds wonderful. Have you ever cycled the Grand Union Canal out of London? I grew up in Hemel Hempstead, and know the canal well where it passes through Hemel. I've wondered about coming back to the UK to cycle it--what do you think? Wow, UK to Bulgaria--that must have been quite the journey. What year? I want to read YOUR book...

[@larstrans789]

Go for it. You'll never be the same person. Biking will change You. Thank's for doing this interview 👍

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh thank you so much for your motivating and kind message! Do you have a lot of experience with cycletouring?

[@williamspencer7067]

Lars. Yes, the bicycle really can change you, right? My trip to India redefined me in my own eyes. How has biking changed you?

[@SR81K9]

I've been wanting to cycle from the UK to Singapore for about 10 years now .... I still haven't left 😳

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh wow sounds amazing! Well, what is keeping you from cycling to Singaporr?

[@williamspencer7067]

That would be a wonderful journey. If you decide to start, it will change your life...

[@brattenj57]

I agree with William in regards to how bicycling brings us to now, to the moment. Especially on singletrak trails, where one has to at all times be present.

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks, John. I think this is a taken-for-granted yet remarkable effect of cycling, especially headed up a hill--it brings you fully into the here and now. I suspect there's a somatic effect at play--perhaps the rhythmic turning of the pedals.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi John, I love the conclusion of William's story! Are you doing long distance cycling as well?

[@Biking360]

60 years and one day old. Still having fun touring. Though more slowly these days. Plenty more a lot older than me too!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Amazing to hear that, I guess biking keeps the body young and fit :) In which regions do you cycle?

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes, let's keep cycling into our 90's!

[@ingeleonora-denouden6222]

I am one of them: 65 (and a half) now.

[@ingeleonora-denouden6222]

@@williamspencer7067 My mother wanted to do that. She ordered a special bicycle, with three wheels and electric support. But then she first got ill, and then got dementia ...

[@williamspencer7067]

@@ingeleonora-denouden6222 oh, I’m sorry to hear that. Old age can be cruel…

[@MotownModels]

Clara, your videos are awesome, especially the bicycling ones. I started solo bike packing this year (in Michigan, USA) and it is truly the best way to see landscapes and meet new people. It's just you, the bike, and the road... no distractions! Thanks for the videos

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, thank you so much for this comment. It means a lot to me and I appreciate it :) How long did your trips last and to which places did it bring you? :)

[@williamspencer7067]

Good for you, solo bike packing. What places have you visited? If you're ever new NYC, there's a warm shower and a place to sleep the night here--just let us know.

[@MotownModels]

@@ClaraFrancken the big one this year was 8 days, 400 miles (640km) from the bottom to the top of Michigan. Next year, possibly, will be the Trans-America route across the country!

[@MotownModels]

@@williamspencer7067 I appreciate that! Went from the bottom to the top of Michigan a couple months ago, looking to do the GAP/C&O trail in the next month or two!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@MotownModels My wife and I did the GAP/C&O a few years back. Great cycling--the best in the NE USA, imo. Stop and visit Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece. Short side trip from Ohiopyle--the boat rental place there does van trips--easy!

[@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter]

Just purchased the book. Bicycling has been my personal way to cope with a life-long battle with anxiety and depression. I'm currently equipping my latest bicycle (A Tumbleweed Prospector, with a Rohloff, Son Dynamo, and 3.8" fat tyres) for my next extended off-road bike-packing adventure. This seems like the perfect book to read on Kindle as I travel along. Thanks for the excellent, well-produced video.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you so much, I'm glad that William's story inspired you and that you can understand his situation on a more personal level. Have fun reading the book and wishing you a great bicycle trip!! Where are you heading?:)

[@williamspencer7067]

Bruce, that is wonderful. Yes, the bicycle, with its rhythmic turning of the pedals, being outside in nature and consistent aerobic exercise is a great medicine for depression. I know from personal experience! Sounds like one lovely bicycle you have there. I have often wondered about a fat-tire bike, since that opens up the possibility of cycling along beaches when roads are problematic. Do you ever use the fat tires to cycle on beaches, or is that impractical?

[@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter]

@@williamspencer7067 Yes, the fat tyres can be good on sand; say in sandhills near the beach, or on very sandy soil in the outback. Mostly I like the wider tyres for greater stability. I injured my left shoulder falling from my road bike a while back. Two ligaments are torn and retracted, unable to be repaired. So I am less steady on a bike with narrow drop handlebars now. My mountain bike has 3" tyres and these give me confidence. So I've opted for even wider tyres for a fully loaded rig. In part, my aim is to get out into the backcountry exploring nature. But a deeper motivation is to explore myself, learning about my own capabilities and resilience.

[@williamspencer7067]

@@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter Ouch! Yes, I gave up on drop handlebars long ago. Sounds like you are in Australia--is that right? Yes. Travelling on the outside is travelling on the inside for me, too.

[@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter]

@@williamspencer7067 Correct. I'm in Canberra. We're in Covid-19 lockdown at the moment. So my bikepacking plans are currently on hold. That's why I hesitated to answer @Clara Francken's question. Longer term, my plan is to cycle to the Flinders Ranges in South Australia, via Broken Hill.

[@knutselaardre1272]

I am almost 68 and bought my first gravel bike 2 months ago. I used to hike more (Dodentocht 17 times), but since I've retired I've been cycling more with a group of friends who now all ride an e-bike. I myself (stubborn donkey🐴) continue to ride my normal weekday bike during these rides of about 60 km with the necessary stops🍺. On my own I take my gravel bike for rides of 100 to 120km. Enjoy nature at a leisurely pace. So, you're never too old for a bike ride.

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

Wow. Good for you. I also have tried an eBike. Went back to my regular bike. I haveLearned to keep going with a regular bike, it’s a great way to keep the body fit. In other words, it’s better not to start an E bike until you really need to, because the effort of a traditional bike is part of what keeps your joints mobile. I’m 67.

[@ВладимирМалов-щ6м]

❤

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for sharing your story!! Dankjewel knutselaar :)

[@Mike-vd2qt]

Neat, at 8:32 photo of William in the tunnel at the Eastern Continental Divide U.S. on the GAP trail. One of the best rail trails in the U.S.the GAP to C&O into Washington, DC. When I retired I rode across the U.S. and went through that tunnel.

[@williamspencer7067]

Wow; well spotted. the GAP and C&O are the best cycling I've found in the USA. Are there other non-traffic routes you can recommend?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Wow love that!

[@georgehawkins1981]

Thanks for the interview and cogent comments regarding your tour. I did my Hemistour (Alaska to Tierra del Fuego) in my 50's. At 81+ I'm still biking.😎

[@ClaraFrancken]

How amazing!! And that must have been such a beautiful experience! How long did it take you? And so so good that you're still riding bicycle, I guess it keeps the mind and body fit!

[@georgehawkins1981]

@@ClaraFrancken Check out my book, A Bicycle Journey to the Bottom of the Americas.😎

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

Yay for biking into your 80s. Wow. That sounds like an amazing adventure through S America. I'll check out your book. Thanks. Where are you based? To where do you cycle these days?

[@surendrasinhjadeja1020]

Great ..... being a cyclist myself, I am inspired to do more cycling ....

[@ClaraFrancken]

oh thank you so much! Where are you mostly cycling? :)

[@surendrasinhjadeja1020]

@@ClaraFrancken I am based at Vadodara, a city with more than 2 million population situated in Gujarat state in Western India. I normally undertake 10-15 days bicycle trips within India 3-4 times in a year. I am 68 years old and am a freelance translator and artist (painter)

[@williamspencer7067]

Surendrasinh.. that is wonderful. Is the traffic heavy where you cycle, or are you able to find smaller, quiet roads? I did visit Gujarat (Surat etc) a few times during my time in India--and the main highways were always very crowded, and I imagine a little dangerous for cyclists.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@surendrasinhjadeja1020 wow that is amazing, so glad that you're able to do this amount of bicycle trips. There must be a lot of beautiful places to go to!

[@surendrasinhjadeja1020]

@@williamspencer7067 ya it is so but being here one gets used to it

[@vladimirkovalenko1539]

Hi form Siberia!:)) Glad to know that this story is becoming available to today's cycling enthusiasts!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Yes beautiful story, right?! Do you also travel by bike?:)

[@oldhippieonabike299]

In 2018, at age 72 (after recovering from a stroke) I cycled solo from St. Petersburg to England, (about 3200km) in aid of my local Samaritans where I am a Listener. I never rode more than 15km at a time before that. In 2019, I rode about 1200km through Holland and Germany to visit people I had met the previous year. Covid has curtailed my travels recently, but if my body is reasonably OK next year, I'm off on another tour. "Old Hippie on a Bike" on Facebook, and book by the same title on Amazon.

[@williamspencer7067]

I like your fb page! I'll look into your book. Wow, that quite a trip at 72. Bravo! Where will your next-year tour be?

[@oldhippieonabike299]

@@williamspencer7067 Hi William…Thank you for your kind response. I will be reading your book!! Next year is a bucket list for me…I want to see the Black Sea and Chernobyl, also, most importantly, I want to pay a humble visit to Auschwitz and Bergen Belsen. So I’ll start in Odessa, to Kiev then head for the Hook of Holland across Ukraine, Poland, Germany and Holland while visiting friends along the way. I should think 60 days…maybe more as the years are advancing. -

[@williamspencer7067]

@@oldhippieonabike299 sounds like a most fantastic trip. The past few trips to Europe, I’ve followed major rivers..The Rhine, The Danube and The Mosel Are all great, with cycling paths. I did Amsterdam to Budapest..was great. Your route sounds fascinating. Yes, taking your time is one of the joys of getting older, right? Even if it’s a 100 days, the fact that you’re out there is all that matters, imo.

[@ClaraFrancken]

oh amazing, I'm happy that you're in a good shape to have this beautiful experience! I'll look for your book too, sounds very interesting! :D

[@oldhippieonabike299]

@@ClaraFrancken Hi Clara…So glad you are interested in my travels. Love your channel. Alan

[@annmanning6497]

What an inspiring and constructive way to deal with a dysfunctional family - and beyond. Way beyond.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Yes his story inspired me too, and many others I see when I read all your comments :)

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes. There is something about the repetitive action of cycling that helps dispel stress and trauma held in the body. That's what I've found, at least!

[@writtenlike]

Great storytelling Clara! I liked William's honest remarks about the culture shock (at first) in India and how cycling long distance is meditation in itself. Keep going with your channel!!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you a lot! I loved listening to what he had to say too... :) Are you traveling by bike as well?

[@normanmart7933]

Just back from a few days in Scottish Highlands in my tent as an older cyclist. Life is in the moment and simple have I got food, water and where will I put my tent , take in the scenery . No chatter in my head about what to do should I go for a ride today or not , no decision to make about the weather . What has always surprised me is that you can ride much further than you would think when you have to. Also music and comfort food has got me through many a difficult mile. I'm sure it will be a bnb or somewhere to charge my ebike when I get one .

[@ClaraFrancken]

Amazing! Thanks for sharing this, life can be simple sometimes 😊

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes! Life’s simple pleasures are the best, right? It IS amazing how much distance you can cover on a bicycle. I rode the C2C trail in the UK on a rented eBike..if my knees are good, I prefer non-e!

[@timbarlow5139]

after watching this i bought Williams book . great read so far . thank you .

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh amazing! I'm happy for you! You will enjoy it, I'm sure! :) are you traveling by bike too?

[@williamspencer7067]

Tim: That's great. Enjoy the journey. If you feel inspired when you're finished with the book, a short, honest review on Amazon would be most welcome!

[@timtense]

Very inspiring story of William!

[@williamspencer7067]

Tim, thank you.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you! Danku!!

[@luckymanthebest]

Thank you for sharing. It made me very curious to start biking longer distances. Maybe I'll give it a try soon. 😄

[@ClaraFrancken]

Ohh that is so nice to hear!! Where would you want to cycle longer distances?

[@williamspencer7067]

Well, if you think you can, you can! Where would you go?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

You may be interested: I've now set up a KZbin channel with tips about long-distance cycling; one is about how to get started: www.youtube.com/@bikepackingandbicycletouring

[@user-nq9gz4xf7f]

Nice video! Im William in Canada...always loved bicycling...my two longest trips were from Ottawa to Quebec city...camping out and youth hostels in late 70s....now last summer left Prescott Ontario...air bnb in Montreal and Quebec city with 3 nite wild camping . I got lost and had to do 120 kil to make my rbnb reservation. Same trip 45 years later! Except rented a car back home this time😀 always had a bottle of spirits in my pack but this year i will do it natural

[@williamspencer7067]

Wow; that sounds like quite the trip. And, what a blast, to do the same trip again, 45 years later. About how many miles/km did you do on the late 70s trip?

[@user-nq9gz4xf7f]

@@williamspencer7067 i guess about about a thousand kilometers ottawa to montreal then quebec because i rode back on bike too...lots of fun in Quebeccity inthe youth hostel..cool city

[@williamspencer7067]

@@user-nq9gz4xf7f Sounds like a grand adventure. Kudos to you. Never stop exploring!

[@SkylerLetsDoThis]

Moments on a bike, good or less ideal, will always be sweet memories later on in life. I have done quite a few journey on a bicycle, longest being 1300km. I love how this video shows so much content of cycling itself instead of all the readings on bike computer. Thank you and keep cycling!

[@ClaraFrancken]

I'm happy to hear you liked this video and the way I made it :) William had a very interesting story to share :D In which continent(s) did you cycle?

[@SkylerLetsDoThis]

@@ClaraFrancken I'm from Sabah, Malaysia so I did the Borneo island. Yes, video is well put together, thank you for the effort. I do make cycling videos too sometimes if you are interested to watch, they are in Mandarin but I do have subtitles.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@SkylerLetsDoThis oh nice I'll watch some videos when I'm home :) thanks for telling me

[@williamspencer7067]

@@SkylerLetsDoThis Cycling on the Borneo Islands sounds wonderful! Are there quiet roads, or is it always heavy traffic?

[@SkylerLetsDoThis]

@@williamspencer7067 quiet roads when away from town and cities! Drivers here tend to be more gentle, so far my experience of riding have been quiet good!

[@pyrkol]

Very enjoyable interview, thank you both.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Ow thank you so much! Do you have plans for a bicycle trip soon?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

I’m happy you enjoyed the video. What was the one big idea you took away from it?

[@janwillemarck836]

I enjoyed the video, stimulates me to go biking again !

[@ClaraFrancken]

Niice!! Where would you go cycling?:)

[@williamspencer7067]

That is wonderful. Where did you go last time? Where would you go next time?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

You may be interested: I've now set up a KZbin channel with tips about long-distance cycling: www.youtube.com/@bikepackingandbicycletouring

[@markharris5544]

I started bicycling again at 62. I hadn't ridden since college for fe,ar of making my troublesome back worse. My back improved and When I was 65 I bicycled along the coast of California pretty much from one end to the other. Cycling helps me to be present with feeling within everything that happens; like flying, yes I agree-its that sense of freedom, not being bound by the confines of a separate self. I practice whole bodily feeling attention, as taught by my spiritual teacher Adi Da Samraj and explained in the book "Conductivity Healing." I also found that my world view was changed, . Its culture shock without even leaving the country, One of the shocks for me was car culture, pervasive and insidious. We begin to realize how dark and deadening our dependence on cars is until we stop using them. Now 77 I still ride a bike 6 hours a day (delivering restaurant food to customers) I don't even get tired at the end of the day. I owe my excellent health to fruit, vegetables, herbs and wild foods as dileneated in the book "Life Changing Foods" by the Medical Medium and to the practical life advice of Adi Da Samraj.

[@williamspencer7067]

Mark, that is wonderful insight. 6 hours a day on a bicycle at 77... BRAVO! Your California trip must have been spectacular. Cycling and a good diet sound to me like a recipe for a long life, well-lived! Thanks for sharing your secrets to success!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi Mark, what an inspiring story, thanks for sharing! And I'm so happy for you that you're cycling so much and that a you're enjoying your healthy lifestyle :)

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Well done Mark I thought I was doing well aged 71

[@satriopinangit1895]

@@2wheelsrbest327 congrats to you too, old biker... 71 on a bicycle is awesome...

[@2wheelsrbest327]

@@satriopinangit1895 Thank you Satrio

[@andrewwilliamson1106]

what a fantastic guy.

[@ClaraFrancken]

True :D

[@loisvaccaro1030]

Great video William! And, of course, your book is a wonderful read!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Yes his book was very nice, I enjoyed reading it a lot! :D

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks, Lois. The audiobook (read by me) should be ready in a few weeks.

[@maikelmolto8986]

@@williamspencer7067 You definitley should record more audio books. Perfect voice for that. I have just ordered your book through my local bookshop. Thanks for the inspiration and greetings from Germany. Keep it rolling!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@maikelmolto8986 Well, thank you for that feedback! It was more work than I had imagined, recording the audio book. So happy you ordered the book--enjoy the journey! And, if you like the book, a short, honest review on Amazon or Good Reads would be appreciated. Thanks!

[@geert5811]

Next year I will retire, and I was doubting to go on a 6+ month bike trip, I'm doubting no more! g.

[@williamspencer7067]

Wonderful. Good for you. What countries will you visit?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh I'm happy that this video could inspire you to go on your bike trip! :)

[@geert5811]

@@williamspencer7067 Belgium, France, Spain, Portugal, back into Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and then I doubt either returning to Belgium via Albany, Kosovo, Bosnia, Kroatia, Austria, Germany, Belgium or Bulgary, Roemenia, Hungary, Slovakia, Tsjechia, Germany, Belgium. Will be decided while going forward; but I always add to it: maybe after 2 months I'll be back in Belgium, crying at the doorstep for Mummy :)

[@williamspencer7067]

@@geert5811 OK, that last bit made me laugh out loud. That sounds like a wonderful itinerary. When I cycle in Europe, I like to either follow a Chemins de Compostelle, or--even better--follow the rivers. I have a good book from an American author, Cycling the Rivers of Europe--I cycled Amsterdam to Budapest via Rhine and Danube, and it was great. The 4 or 5 Chemins de Compostelle across France (and Belgium, Netherlands, Germany) are also really great, with auberges/hostels to stay at. commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Routes_de_St_jacques_de_Compostelle.svg

[@jalford5089]

‘This tune was composed by Spenser the rambler, as valiant a man as ever left home. He had been much reduced which caused great confusion, and that was the reason he started to roam’. Old folk song which tells of the joys of travelling, the heartache of loneliness and the welcome home in the winter at journeys end. It tells us that simple food at the roadside ‘tasted much better than the gold he had squandered far SWEETER THAN HONEY and gave more content’. A tale of Spenser the rambler indeed. I’ve just ordered the book.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for sharing this! I'm glad you enjoyed his story :) What a beautiful song, what is the name of it? :)

[@williamspencer7067]

I’m intrigued.. is this an actual folk song? I can’t find a reference to it. Anyway, enjoy the roaming of Spencer in this book!

[@jalford5089]

It’s actually Spenser the Rover (my mistake). I’d heard it sung in folk clubs for years so assumed it was traditional, but the most commonly recorded version is by John Martyn in his inimitable dreamy style, which made me wonder. However it IS traditional, and was collected by Vaughan Williams at the turn of the last century. I am really looking forward to the book. I have done many long days on the bike, but would like to go deeper into that stripped back simplicity and solitude that a really long journey must bring. Maybe this book will be the kick I need!

[@williamspencer7067]

Wow, I had no idea there was such a song! AND that it contains the phrase, "sweeter than honey'. Serendipity! Thanks so much for bringing this to my attention. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKLXioRrrbN5gNE&ab_channel=aml

[@williamspencer7067]

@@jalford5089 Yes, stripped back simplicity is a nice way to put it. If I were to do the journey today, I'd NOT take a smart phone--as hard as it might be to leave it behind! I hope the book IS the kick up the backside you seek!

[@longlifemovement6131]

Fascinating story of great adventures!

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks for the appreciation!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you i found them very fascinating too!

[@thehumanchris]

Just stumbled across your account Clara. This is a great story and It really made me think about doing a bike tour one day...after all I'm really in love with my bike 👀 I'm curious how you stumbled across this man and his story! I really enjoyed the video, greetings from Berlin!

[@williamspencer7067]

Human Chris: glad that this has reminded you how much you love your bike!

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@williamspencer7067 Hi Chris, thanks for asking ^^ where you can travel towards, you could start by doing a little trip like William suggested to see what it's like. And I saw that you have a KZbin channel too, I'll watch your videos as soon as I find time :) Greetings from Leipzig, Clara

[@janswildlife9163]

Great interview! I can totally relate to William's reasons for taking up cycling, I was doing short YHA tours of the UK as a schoolboy back in the 1960s. Now in my late 60s I am due to head off on a 2300km journey from Germany to Spain. Will I make it, I don't know but unless I try I will never know.

[@williamspencer7067]

Jan, good for you! Germany to Spain will be an adventure, for sure. May the wind be always at your back....

[@ClaraFrancken]

What are YHA tours exactly? :) and amazing ! Good luck and have fun!!🚲💪

[@janswildlife9163]

@@ClaraFrancken The main two were Daventry-Lincoln-York and Daventry-Windsor-Winchester-Brighton-Hastings-Windsor. That was in the days of no cycle paths and respectful car drivers;)) Thanks! Just in case I misunderstood your question: YHA tours (staying overnight at Youth hostels)

[@janswildlife9163]

@@williamspencer7067 Thanks William, though heading west is probably not ideal regarding wind, we will see:) Look forward to reading your book.

[@williamspencer7067]

@Clara Francken Youth Hostel Association = YHA

[@sig_nessuno]

Thank you for the video!

[@williamspencer7067]

I’m glad you enjoyed the video. May I ask, are you on a bicycle tour, or perhaps planning one? From where? And to what destinations?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Happy you liked it!

[@xtrofilm]

BRILLIANT.

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks for your vote of confidence!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you so much!!

[@someshshah9713]

Hi Clara, good informative video and i liked to know his view on the road. Though it may hear nice to some on listening his views about India, It should be mentioned that these are his own personal views and whatever he felt is because of his own perception and own experience. I am also a rider , and respect different cultures. People around the world have different styles of doing things… some people like to be close and affectionate and some people don’t. One can’t generalize. And a criminal is a criminal wherever it is, and we find those bad people everywhere in the world. No offense but this is just my own personal view.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, thank you for giving your opinion here. We're not claiming that what is said is the general truth, of course this is ones specific view on a situation. In all my videos the people I interviewed talked about their own experience :)

[@ClaraFrancken]

I btw also have another video on long distance cycling which might interest you to hear other people talk on the same general subject :) it's called "Cycling in Africa and Europe / Bikepacking Everything You Need To Know" ^^

[@williamspencer7067]

Somesh--thanks for your comments. Yes, cultural differences fascinate me. If you read my book, you'll see that what I said in the video is just the "short version". This is such a nuanced subject! I did not mean to suggest that one culture is better than another--not at all! I am humbled by the depth of my own unconscious cultural programming, actually. If you'd like to read my book, I'd be happy to email you an eCopy--just LMK.

[@someshshah9713]

Thank you Clara and William, i appreciate your responses and honest replies👍 As a part of a bicycle-riding community, I would be happy to be in touch with you and follow more information and blogs. At the end, love of riding bicycles is actually connecting us not any culture or religion or country Cheers to the spirit.

[@williamspencer7067]

@@someshshah9713 Here is the fb page for my book. facebook.com/groups/870373953763578 I'm happy to send you a free copy--IM me via fb and I'll get you an eCopy!

[@unclebulgaria1132]

I cycled from Newcastle upon Tyne in northern england to France when I was 50 yrs old 🚴‍♂️

[@williamspencer7067]

Bravo! Where did you cross The Channel? Cycling in France is pure joy, right? Any plans for another trip?

[@ClaraFrancken]

amazing, that must have been wonderful! How long did you travel?

[@unclebulgaria1132]

@@williamspencer7067 I cycled to dover and got the ferry over it was on my 50th birthday 7 yrs a go and it was on a brompton bike . It took 12 days staying in hotels along the way best adventure I have ever had was amazing .

[@unclebulgaria1132]

@@ClaraFrancken 12 days to reach France from my home then I got to ferry over 👍 it was to celebrate my 50 th 7 yrs ago

[@williamspencer7067]

@@unclebulgaria1132 Sounds just wonderful. There is a sublime joy in this form of travelling, right? On my trip, I took the ferry from Dover to Boulogne. I have always been curious about the + and - of going long distances on a Brompton. Maybe another long trip for your 60th? Les Chemins de Compostelle across France might be one option?

[@kineticvelo5523]

Great video , thank you 🙏

[@ClaraFrancken]

your welcome, thank you for your comment here :)

[@williamspencer7067]

Glad you enjoyed the video. I can see from your photo that you're a cyclist--do you cycle tour?

[@tomagapitos]

This video was so useful. Will be doing my first big tour (travelling coast to coast of Australia) so I do really appreciate your advice

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, I appreciate your comment a lot. Thank you! I wish you good luck on your big tour in Australia! Do you have a certain amount of time to do your tour? :)

[@tomagapitos]

@@ClaraFranckenno problem and yeah I can be on the road for 4 months even though it would take probably 6 weeks! I would rather take my time to capture all the beauty inside Australia and even around the world once I have the opportunity since we are all so adapted to our cities and forget this!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@tomagapitos that sounds like a fantastic trip. Will you follow the southern coast, and cross the Nullabor? If not, what route?

[@williamspencer7067]

@@tomagapitos just saw your KZbin video. Bravo! I have followed you.. I’ll be interested to see your videos. Safe travels!

[@tomagapitos]

@@williamspencer7067 I most likely will take the southern coast way since it will be summer so I think I will leave the outback for winter! Thanks for the sub, I’m new here so I will have to work for it lol

[@ChippewaFilms]

I wonder if he did his trip from the U.K. to India at the same time as Barbara and Larry Savage as they wrote in thier book "Miles from Nowhere". Was he one of the people she wrote about in the book?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh I didn't read that book yet, where can I find it? And I guess only William can answer that question 😊😊

[@williamspencer7067]

Jay, yes, it was around the same time. No, I did not meet them. I did enjoy their book, and it made me thoughtful about the differences in our journeys. If you end up reading both books, I'd be criuos to hear your compare-and-contrast. My email contact is listed in my book. Are you a cycle tourer?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

You may be interested: I've now set up a KZbin channel with tips about long-distance cycling: www.youtube.com/@bikepackingandbicycletouring

[@sauravbasu8805]

What are cons of using an upright bike ( like they use in Netherlands) for touring ? Those upright bikes are very comfortable for the back.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, let's see if William Spencer can answer that question for you, I don't know enough about bicycle touring to give you a correct answer :)

[@williamspencer7067]

This is a great question.. and many people will have different opinions from mine. The reason to have a low position on the bicycle is to reduce wind resistance, so you can go faster, especially if you are racing. When you are bicycle touring, especially long distance, comfort and being able to cycle day after day, and not strain or damage any joints or muscles becomes more important than speed. So, yes, an upright position is best, I have found, after 80,000+ km of cycle touring. If you are leaning over.. even a little.. you are placing strain on your wrists, forearms, shoulders and neck. As you say, many Dutch bikes have an upright riding position. It can be very hard to find a good upright position on a bicycle bought in the USA. So, yes, upright is best .. buy a bike where you see the handlebars sit higher than the saddle, increase height of handle bars, bring the seat forward, AND fit butterfly handlebars. All these things will allow you to keep going day after day, and avoid long term injury. Also very good to get a bicycle fitting from a shop who know how to do this for you. The primary drawback (and only one I am aware of )is that, in a headwind, you are more exposed to the force of the wind--but in my experience that is maybe one day in 20 or less... So, in my mind, the benefits far outweigh the cons.

[@josephfredbill]

How old is William now ? I’m 69, have cycled for 30 years (since I was 40) ,done various long distance trips in UK including the endpoints and cycled in many cities in the world (where I went for meetings and took a bike with me). Im not as strong as earlier in my life but I hope to continue as long as I can and am thinking to try something long like UK to Istanbul, round Iceland, to India if its possible now with the disturbances in the middle east and Ukraine and so on. Camping frightens me - I always stayed in hostels because at the end of a long day cycling I want a shower and clean bed and so on but I recognise I will have to camp sometimes. Solo cycling is immensely satisfying - its like meditation. Any feedback very welcome. What routes from UK to India are still fairly safe ?

[@williamspencer7067]

Hi Joseph. I'm 68 now. I just got back from Europe, where I cycled 2,500 miles in 5 months--taking it easy. London to Istambul should be wonderful: I have been reading about the Sultan's Route, which runs from Vienna to Istanbul. Thinking of doing that next year, starting near London. The bext is probably the EV2 route to Harwich, then ferry to Hook of Holland, then to the Rhine, then the Danube to Vienna, then the Sultan's Route. From what I see on fb groups, after Turkey, touring cyclists are now crossing the 'stans' north of Iran and north of Afghanistan. What I am unclear on is how to get from Tajikistan to India. If I were doing it today, I'd probably choose instead to go south through Africa (many are doing this route) since India is so hard to get to now...

[@josephfredbill]

@@williamspencer7067 thats great William. Are you the william in the video or a different one ?

[@williamspencer7067]

@@josephfredbill The same William as in the video.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@josephfredbill yes yes this is THE William from the video :) I showed him your message and he usually answers to all messages under this video :) he could give you a better answer that I could have!! Thanks for your great question and comment ^^

[@ClaraFrancken]

Also so great that you started cycling at 40 and never stopped with long distance trips, even though of course maybe routes have to be adapted! I hope that you'll be able to continue trips that bring you pleasure in the upcoming years 👏

[@apstubbl]

lovely, thank you!

[@williamspencer7067]

You are welcome; it’s a joy to share what I’ve learned.

[@ClaraFrancken]

I'm happy you enjoyed the video :)

[@leanmaker]

Thank you, just bought the book. Very inspiring story, and a wonderful life experience at 22. I love the idea that the time on the journey was more than compensated by the life experiences you gained. I wish I had that insight at 22 :)

[@ClaraFrancken]

I'm happy you're going to read his beautiful story! He indeed has shared some great insights to understand what it was like and how he looks back at this life changing trip 🌟

[@williamspencer7067]

Leanmaker.. well, at 22, I just did it. It was years later that I realized the value the experience had in my work. Specifically, being comfortable with ambiguity, intercultural awareness and experience, seeking the good in others, not taking things too seriously, knowing that difficult times work out, keeping going in the face of difficulty, persistence, etc etc.

[@leanmaker]

@@williamspencer7067 great attributes, particularly for this strange time globally! Loving the book!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@leanmaker Ah, so glad you are enjoying the book. Don't forget to stop and stretch as you cycle up into the high mountains with me...

[@alex_n8863]

Great advice 👍

[@ClaraFrancken]

thank you a lot!

[@NaveenKumar-uw9fl]

i am planning for the world long distence rote i need a help

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

From where will you start your journey?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmLEYXh3hLearJY

[@mapleleafer74]

LOVE YOUR DUTCH ACCENT CLARA! OH AND THE CUTE NEON CAT!

[@ClaraFrancken]

hahahah thank you!!! :)

[@ramoverde4133]

Great ! 🌻🙏

[@ClaraFrancken]

thank you a lot!

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks for watching, and glad you found it good. Long-distance cycling is such a wonderful, joyous thing to do!

[@ramoverde4133]

@@williamspencer7067 Oh, thank you for your answer! 🌻 Yes, i enjoy it too! However, i have never left europe. Most of the time i cycle in Italy and Switzerland. And if my wife comes with me, we travel with a tandem bike...

[@williamspencer7067]

@@ramoverde4133 That sounds wonderful. I have cycled across northern Italy (on the journey described in my book). I would like to cycle in Switzerland--maybe around Lake Consance. I tried a tanden with my wife a few years ago--neither of us liked it! So, we now use our own bicycles when we tour together.

[@ramoverde4133]

@@williamspencer7067 Lake Constance is very touristy, there are a lot of bikes on the way. Nevertheless, very beautiful. I live nearby (ca 80 km). Please contact when you are there. Yup, tandem is dangerous for couples. Either you stay together for a lifetime or you are not made for each other...😁

[@williamvan909]

Out standing videos of good to know how to travel over sea's and what to expect when you're over there 🙏💗 thanks for the update 🤠 Amen stay safe out there a job 👍 well done.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hello William, thank you so much, I'm happy you enjoyed the story :) Could you find inspiration for own bicycle trips?

[@williamspencer7067]

I'm glad you found the video interesting. Are you a long-distance cyclist?

[@williamvan909]

@@williamspencer7067 yes I tour down to the lower 48 every summer on my EBike and my nomad bike camper to live in while I am traveling down there I live here in Alaska 🤠 going down there in a few weeks for the winter months warmer weather LoL 😆 visiting my family and friends down there 🤠 keep safe and enjoy your traveling as well. Take care stay safe amen amen.

[@williamspencer7067]

@@williamvan909 Sounds just lovely. If you're ever near NYC and needd a place to sleep or park your Nomad, let me know... I'm 23 miles NW of NYC...

[@williamvan909]

Will do I'll keep you posted thanks ☺️ take care stay safe down there 🤠 Amen from Alaska

[@patelabhishek7966]

really informative and inspiring stuff

[@ClaraFrancken]

thanks a lot!!

[@williamspencer7067]

Yay for inspiration! Glad you’re were inspired. Do you cycle?

[@patelabhishek7966]

Yes I have done week long trips max. Last week I did a tour of lac de Léman with a fixed gear bike with light baggage and was really great experience

[@patelabhishek7966]

@@williamspencer7067 I am living in France since last four years and haven't went back to India since four years, In near future I wants to go back with my fixed gear bike. Do you think it is possible? And what are your suggestions for the trip?

[@williamspencer7067]

@@patelabhishek7966 Well, that would be a fantastic trip, for sure. A fixed gear bike would make the mountains very very hard, especially carrying luggage. But I know you can buy a used bike for 150-200 euro that would work well. I have seen on fb many people who have done/are currently doing a similar route by going north of the Caspian. My guess is that you could get to Tajikistan, then take a plane for the last stretch. Unless you are super adventurous, in which case you *might* be able to go China-Tibet-Nepal-India with LOTS of high mountain passes!

[@BicinViaggio]

As time is slowing pushing us towards William's age, we can't but agree with him. Despite I used to be a pro rider, I started bike traveling late, I wished I did not waste that time. Thanks for the great video. Join5 and joining your Instagram as well. Siera and Gio

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thanks for your kind message! At what time did you start bike traveling ? And did you ride professionally before using the bike as a mode of transport for traveling? :)

[@BicinViaggio]

​@@ClaraFrancken I started in my late 30th, I wished I started before! I raced until 20, so before becoming a bike traveller... Now is more than 20 years I ride for fun, but I wished I started before. FYI, now when we go in Vacation we travel by bike (you can see we have a travel channel, in Italian though, sorry!). PS We just bought the book you advised in this video, looking forward to receiving it to start reading it! Happy riding and cheers! Ciao

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@BicinViaggio oh how amazing! And thanks for telling me, I guess I can understand a little italian because I speak French.. I'll watch your videos, always nice to travel along virtually!! Also have fun reading, I really loved it so I'm happy you will too :) And the channel is about both of your bicycle journeys then?:)

[@williamspencer7067]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Hello to you in Italy!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@BicinViaggio Oh, so glad you bought the book. Enjoy the journey! Bravo, reading a book in another language!

[@AndyGilmour-t2u]

Can you give me the name of William book .please

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, you can use my code in the video description to buy the book. It’s called Far Sweeter Than Honey 😍

[@the1andonly]

Awesome video. I also share the passion for cycling long distances. My channel on here covers a lot of stories and tips about it. I'll be following yours for sure.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh thank you for your comment and thoughts!! I'll watch some of your videos tonight! Wish you a great day!

[@williamspencer7067]

Jorg... thanks. I'll check out your videos...

[@WalktheWorldWithME]

Like 👍

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you :)

[@mathildefrancken2649]

🚵❤️👍👍👍

[@ClaraFrancken]

Merci ♥️

[@williamspencer7067]

Thank you. I hope you enjoyed the video.

[@nateums]

[@ClaraFrancken]

thank you!

[@SpaceDjoxy]

You are so beautiful, Clara! ^^

[@simongee5879]

William is quite right. Age is not important. As I get older I find I am less interested in things like rock climbing and have found other pursuits that one can do well into older age. Cycling and sailing for instance. At 67 years , I cycled 3,000 km down the west coast of Chile to Punta Arenas and crossed the Andes a couple of times. On the way home, I stopped in San Diego and cycled a further 700 km to Las Vegas, taking only back roads. Just recently ordered two Eurovelo routes.. The Mediterranean and the Rhine

[@williamspencer7067]

Simon, that is just great. Wow, how was Chile? Were there sections with bad traffic? I did Amsterdam-Budapest via Rhine and Danube a few years back--was fabulous. Am looking at EV2 or EV3 this year. I am expecting Covid to have calmed way down by the spring. I'm hoping, anyway!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi Simon, that sounds great!! How wonderful that you find so much joy in cycling! And on which ships/boats do you sail?:)

[@twominds2006]

Great video and some good tips about dealing with dogs. I used to use the first two, outrun or stop. I think I learned about the stopping method in a book by Dervla Murphy. I think the action of pedaling looks like the movement in the hind legs of animals such as a hare. So the dogs are hardwired to chase. If a dog comes out of a private residence, I would suggest reporting the incident to the local authority that deals with dog problems. That way, there is a chance that the same thing won't happen to another cyclist.

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes, Dervla Murphy’s book, Full Tilt may have been where I learned about stopping. I read it a long time ago, before I left to India.

[@brianchislett2699]

I purchased the book and can honestly say I was one of the best written, interesting book I have ever read.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Wow that is so nice of you to say, thanks a lot in the name of William, I really loved his book too!!

[@marksadventures3889]

I am 60. Most of my life I've had a bicycle and when i was younger cycle toured a lot, all over the English South coast, Wales & Scotland including my ancestral Hebridean isles. I will soon get my Passport and I intend to travel Europe from Edinburgh to Athens. I have done jogle and lejog twice now, when I was a boy and in my thirties. I keep a good riding schedule and despite health issues still try to cover 30 miles a week or 60 a month. After retirement I think I may just set off and cycle the planet. I am not in a race just travelling, touring and taking it all in as i go.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi Mark, that sounds amazing!! How much time do you think you'll need to get to Athens? And great to hear your insights! I'm happy for you that you're still able to travel like you wish to even though you're battling some health issues. I hope you'll be able to continue your trips and take your time to get there :)

[@williamspencer7067]

Hey Mark. Edinburgh to Athens sounds like a great trip. I've just been researching a similar route for summer/autumn 2022, if travel eases up. Can I offer a few route suggestions, based on my long trip and many subsequent trips in Europe? lmk...

[@steveretiredandcycling]

Hi Clara, thank you for the video. At 68 years old I am also a bicycle tourist. I will be off on my next adventure in two weeks covering more of the east coast of the USA about 1300 miles. Age doesn't matter when it comes to cycling, a good attitude and desire to never stop moving matters most. Thanks again and all the best, Steve

[@williamspencer7067]

Bravo, Steve! You are an inspiration. What route will you cycle? From where to where? The newly-complete (even though there are still on-road sections) of the Empire Trail in NY State is good. I have done a few sections this summer. There's a bed and shower for you here, 23 miles NW of Manhattan, in New Jersey...

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hey Steve, I love what you said: "age doesn't matter, a good attitude and desire to never stop moving matters most"! Thank you for your message, I'm inspired! I guess this applies to many things, not only to bicycling. I also believe a good attitude and desire brings you far in life 💪🌟 Clara

[@steveretiredandcycling]

@@ClaraFrancken Thank you Clara! I appreciate your comments and I believe as you do that a good attitude and desire is key, it's served me well. Subscribed to your channel this morning, very interesting and meaningful content.. Glad I found you! Take care, Steve

[@steveretiredandcycling]

@@williamspencer7067 Hi William, Last year I rode from Key West to Beaufort, SC (documented on my channel). In two weeks I head to SC to pick up where I left off and will cycle to my home in Northwestern Connecticut. I will be taking the Adventure Cycling route. It does go through NJ so I would see how close I will be to you. Thank you very much for the offer. Thanks to Clara's channel, I ordered your book this morning. Thanks again and all the best, Steve

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@steveretiredandcycling thank you so much! Wishing you a wonderful day Steve!

[@douglasfreeman3229]

I wild camp on the English moors, carrying a load of equipment, walk for miles on virtually no sleep, in wind and rain, and what this young fellow does takes my breath away. I simply do not have the guts to do this, but what an experience, what a life he has lead. Hats off to the chap!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Yes his story and the road he took is very inspiring!! At what time of your life did you start wild camping and do you also bike a lot, or are you mostly walking with your equipment?

[@williamspencer7067]

Douglas: wild camping on the English moors, walking for miles on no sleep, wind and rain. That's pretty impressive, imo. Do you cycle around the UK, also? Or, is walking your main "thing"?

[@ShreeYogaStudios]

So nice to revisit this video and the inspiring tale of William's journey to India. I think it's a great gift idea for the holidays and will probably get a few copies to give as gifts.

[@williamspencer7067]

Thank you for this vote of confidence. Do you cycle tour? Where?

[@ShreeYogaStudios]

@@williamspencer7067 Yes! I cycle tour with my husband from time to time. I really enjoy it. We've toured in the US on the GAP and C&O as well as in France, Scotland and Netherlands. Thanks for asking!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@ShreeYogaStudios That sounds lovely. You've cycled in a lot of countries. Bravo! Where will you cycle to next?

[@ShreeYogaStudios]

@@williamspencer7067 Only time will tell! Always an adventure!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@ShreeYogaStudios Yay for adventure. Bravo!

[@LimberkeyKimberley]

Cycling is a good and environmentally friendly way to travel! It allows to meet people and discover in ways no other transport means can! 🤩💚

[@ClaraFrancken]

Yes indeed!! It was so inspiring to listen to his story too.. 😍 The environmental impact of cycling is definitely very low! At the same time, on the bicycle one can also see how polluted some areas are because then you're also directly affected by it while cycling through the region.. think this way of travelling is really grounding too

[@williamspencer7067]

Yes, it's true. You get to see things on a bicycle that you miss in a car. Do you cycle tour? Where to?

[@IS-xk3iq]

I read Mr. Spencer's book and found it most enjoyable. The prose made it an easy read. He provides his contact information as well to field questions. He brought my attention to a book that aspired him to go on his journey. The book was Full Tilt by Dervla Murphy. Mr. Spencer is a delightful gentleman.

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

Thank you for reading my book. I'm happy to answer questions about cycle touring. And, I have a KZbin channel with long distance cycling tips: kzbin.info/door/7N2p0Uvd-dMmz2zYX5Ohuw

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for letting me know! Did you read his book before or after seeing this video actually? Have a great day!

[@anvermeire7709]

Nice video, I learned a lot about traveling by bike. I hope to do a big bike-trip next spring (but for me, not as big as the one William Spencer did ;)!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you!! And nice, where would you like to cycle towards or through which region? 👀😊

[@williamspencer7067]

Ah, but you never know. Once you get started, maybe you will just keep going! Where do you plan to cycle to in the spring?

[@markl2815]

I as a child dreamt of flying. Became an raf pilot. Later life, I sought a bike again, reverted to childhood and rediscovered the love of that freedom. Not done what you did but I did do the French side the the Santiago pilgrimage last year and will complete the rest next year 800 km on that alone so far so I get everything you say here

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh nice thanks for sharing your story! :) Could you or did you ever take your bike on the plane to cycle somewhere where you normally wouldn't be able to go?

[@williamspencer7067]

Mark... Love that you followed a dream and became an RAF pilot. Bravo! My nephew had a similar dream-and is in his second year of flight school now. Yes, the French Chemins de Compostelle are a real delight. I cycled many of them, including the lesser-known (and easier to find accommodations, therefore!) Chemin Piedmont, that follows the Pyrennee foothills. One time, I bought a bike in Toulouse, cycled via several Chemins de Compostelle, via St Jean Pied de Port, then on to Compostella. The French side is more verdant, the Spanish side much drier. fyi, I learned a trick from an old hand: look for a place to stay just AFTER the larger cities, since all the walkers stop at major cities. That way, there's always room at the hostels or BnBs--though post-Covid, I imagine there's a lot less people walking/cycling the route.

[@paulowen907]

Clara, great story thank you. This question may have been asked before so you may be able to direct me if it has. I would be interested in William's thoughts on the relative merits of cycling long-distance alone, as a pair or in a group. I get the feeling he favours cycling alone. Had Brian or Rudy stayed with him I wonder how his journey would have been different?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, wonderful question. I don't think that William already elaborated on this topic, I'll let him know about your message! I'm curious to hear his thoughts on this too.

[@williamspencer7067]

They say there are two types of people: Those who like to be alone, and sometimes need to be with other people... and those who like to be with other people, and sometimes need to be alone. I am, indeed, the former. When you are solo, you simply have to reach out to and depend on those you meet: as I did when solo. Had I been with either of the two friends I cycled with earlier, I believe we would have interacted less with others; there would have been a layer of 'insulation' around us, and perhaps I would not have had to reach so deep within myself. Does that make sense?

[@davidharris4062]

It doesn’t matter what you ride, it doesn’t matter how fast you ride, it doesn’t matter how far you ride, as long as you ride, Eddie Mercxs

[@ClaraFrancken]

Awesome quote from an amazing Belgian cyclist, thanks for sharing that! Do you ride frequently?

[@williamspencer7067]

That's exactly right!

[@dondonner1095]

Second time watching this, I read the book and then gave it to a friend. I may have to buy it again so I can read it again.

[@williamspencer7067]

Don: thanks for reading the book. I assume you must have liked it, since you are prepared to struggle alongside me to India again! Do you cycle tour? To what places?

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh thank you so much!! I'm happy that William's story inspired you that much 😊😊 I'm also really curious to hear what experience with bikepacking you have ^^

[@vaig5319]

Extra motivation to hit the road! I recently bought my first bike for an endless journey. I've been looking for a book to read along the way, so excited to check this one out!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh amazing!! Yes check it out, I really enjoyed reading it!! And where or in which regions do you want to cycle?:)

[@vaig5319]

@@ClaraFrancken I'm in Las Vegas. I really want to visit national parks so I'm thinking I'll head towards southern Utah since there's a handful near each other (Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyon land). I do need to stop by Seattle so I'm thinking I'll go North and cut across Idaho and Oregon. Crater Lake is on my list of national parks to visit also so I'm sure I'll stop there on my way to Seattle. I want to hit the Great American Rail Trail also, from Washington-DC!

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@vaig5319 nice, those plans sound great!! I wish you the best of luck and a lot of fun along the way!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@vaig5319 Those sound like great trips! Bravo. My wife and I did the C&O, then the GAP a few years back--the start of the Great American Rail Trail, I believe. The best cycling I've done in the USA!

[@vaig5319]

@@williamspencer7067 awesome! I'm trying to simplify my visits to free entry natl parks but Rail Trails is still on the list!

[@2wheelsrbest327]

Thanks Clara just found you and this great video. Aged 71 I am guessing that I am older than William so that is my excuse for never having toured on a bike but that said he is so right when he say's cycling keeps you strong & fit as I now have a heart problem but without being a cyclist I am pretty sure I would not be here to write this. When finances allow I will definitely be buying his book. Hopefully your link to his book will enable him to receive a greater fee for his writing as I know buying from the big major book sellers lessen this amount.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi thank you so much for your kind words!! And great to hear that it does help you so much to keep you fit an healthy :) Since when are you seeing yourself as a cyclist then? And in which areas do you cycle around?

[@2wheelsrbest327]

@@ClaraFrancken Hi Clara thank you for your kind words and replying.I,ve been a cyclist since a child and in my later life I have cycled a few of the big mountain passes. Well that's actually a lie I should of said cycled walked. So yes I have always been a cyclist combined with running & swimming. So I was surprised to be told 5 years ago two of my heart Chambers aren't working properly but I am convinced if I had been some who hadn't of exercised I would not be here. I live in the South East of the UK & many of my routes take me through the South Downs. When we moved to where we live I knew it was hilly but never thought about how windy it would also be living on the coast.I keep telling myself it's great strength training but cal days are definitely better for riding my bike regards Ted

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@2wheelsrbest327 Hi Ted, thank you so much for sharing your story!! I also believe that living a healthy life, being outside enough and doing sports which brings you joy are all additives in keeping you fit today. I'm happy that you took care of your body like that! I cycled only once in the UK actually.. took the bicycle on the boat to Dover, and cycled during 3 days before going back ^^ it's a long time ago so I should definitely go back !!

[@williamspencer7067]

71 is a great age for cyling! Well done, you. Yes, selling a book requires constant online promotion. Cycling to India was the easy part (joking!)

[@brianoreilly239]

Did he really cycle while wearing those bell bottom jeans and ultra heavy pullovers on then ? I know that in the 70s bike touring clothing was not like the lightweight lycra gear available to cyclists today but you could find lighter clothes to cycle in than the gear he's wearing then even when you had to 'cover up' , it must have been very uncorftable for him ?

[@williamspencer7067]

Brian, as it happens, I did! Those jeans were my “eveningwear“ - what I kept for “special occasions“ as I cycled. Mostly, I wore shorts whenever possible. But, as you say, I had to put my jeans back on, when in Muslim countries. It was not the most comfortable, but hey! And, yes, that heavy woolen sweater was my PRIMARY article of clothing to keep myself warm. I loved that sweater! These days when I cycle tour, I do indeed have lots of synthetic, lightweight layers. And, a lighter bicycle, with a wider range of gears.

[@brianoreilly239]

@@williamspencer7067 Hi William, Thank you for your courteous reply. I'm now reading your book and am thoroughly enjoying it. You write very well, and it's a pleasure to read about your amazing cycling adventure all those years ago. Do you read a lot ? Interesting that in the previous year to you cycling to India, you and your then girlfriend cycled from London to Greece , that's also quite a cycling adventure for a 21 year old ! Obviously that trip 'stood you in good stead' for what was to come later. Are you both still in contact, and what about Brian and the Dutchman ? Hope you don't mind me being 'nosy' ? I assume it was in the early 70s that you started on your bike journey when you were 22 ? Compared to now where in Europe the wonderful EuroVelo cycling network make cycling and navigation a lot easier it mush have been a quite a challange for you. You also appear to be a very competent bike mechanic then ,did you do a course in bike maintenance prior to going or did you just pick it up from practicing when needed ? I aleady mentioned about bike clothing now being a lot lighter , but camping equipment then was also a lot more cumbersome and a lot heavier , what make of tent and sleeping bag did you have then? Finally , I was curious to know was your bike a Dawes , Raleigh or another British tourer of that era ? I'm now 74 and have being cycle/touring since my mid forties . I have a Tout Terrain tourer with Pinion gearing , a very expensive bike but worth every penny . I don't drink or smoke nor have a car (I live in London) ,so no harm in 'treating' myself . I also have a beautiful custom built Roberts tourer. I love cycling in France , a cycle tourist paradise an so accessable from SE England! Regards Brian

[@williamspencer7067]

@@brianoreilly239 Brian, your questions do not seem ‘nosy’ to me.. just healthy curiosity. I’m so glad you’re enjoying my book. The writing of it was a joy… reliving the experience. I don’t read as much as I’d like.. I’m under the curse of the tiny glowing screen! Thank god there were no smart phones when I did my journey, Though I do appreciate having one now, to find places to stay each day as I tour. On the mechanics.. I cycled since I was 9, and learned as I went. I did a.so closely study Richard’s Bicycle Book, way back when. Rebuilding a wheel is the most complex thing I ever did. Yes, I have also followed several Euro Velo routes, as well as the way to. Compostella. And the Sustrans UK routes. Do you cycle in the UK? I hope to cycle the Kennet and Avon Canal next year. I started my epic ride in 1977. It was a bog standard Raleigh Merlin steel bike.. I added an extra chainring, plus Japanese wheels with reinforced spokes. It was nothing fancy, by any standard. Tent: cheap non brand. Sleeping bag, fiber fill.. I think I paid 5 quid! Your current set up sounds wonderful. Is that a hub gear? My current ride is a secondhand North Face bike I paid USD 300 for. I added a very high gear to ease knee strain. Bravo to you.. no car, no drink, no smokes. That plus cycling probably means you’ll see 100! Can you cycle from your home and out of the city?

[@williamspencer7067]

@@brianoreilly239 and… yes, I am in touch with Rudy the Dutchman. Have visited him a few times, on his houseboat near Amsterdam. Brian, my English friend, I have been totally unable to trace..though I dearly would like to be in touch.

[@richardarendt7175]

Nice video! I started touring in the 70's but stopped because of college, work, kids etc. Started again in my 50's for several years but stopped again due to health and family issues. Now, in my mid-60's I am going to have a hip replacement, build a new chemical plant and then... go coast-to-coast across the USA. Thank you for the encouragement.

[@ClaraFrancken]

That is some dedication! Wishing you a lot of luck for your operation and health issues!! Happy to hear that you'll be able to enjoy touring again after the hip replacement 💪🚲

[@williamspencer7067]

Yay! Coast to coast USA... that sounds like an epic journey. Bravo!

[@carlosgaspar8447]

riding to jerusalem, bettina selby, is a good read. seem to recall she encountered freezing temperatures in former yugoslavia plus getting chased by a pack of wild dogs. made her way to israel without a single flat but the handlebar "tape" completely wore off...

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh damn ! Thank you for the recommendation!! Will look for the book. Do you also travel by bike?

[@williamspencer7067]

Sounds like another good bicycle touring/bikepacking book. Have you read Full Tilt by Dervala Murphy? She rode a 3-speed bike from Ireland to India in the 60s

[@carlosgaspar8447]

@@ClaraFrancken i've really only done one bike travel back in 2004 which took me from madrid, west to avila, salamanca, and then northwest to santiago. followed much of the camino back to madrid which was nice given a mostly tailwind. stayed at hostels and "camas" along the way. now i stick to just out and back daily trips.

[@carlosgaspar8447]

@@williamspencer7067 my travel books are in storage but i recall reading passages of afghanistan, pakistan and northern india. some of the distances covered per day on rough terrain and carrying lots of water have me questioning the account. i certainly wouldn't be able to do that unless it was a supported stage race.

[@williamspencer7067]

@@carlosgaspar8447 I hear you. But, as i write in my book, the incredible support from people, especially in poorer countries, makes the perhaps-impossible into the maybe-possible. The Camino must have been a memorable trip.

[@grantmartin6094]

Thanks for making this, very cool.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you a lot for saying that! Do you want to travel on a cargo ship?:)

[@grantmartin6094]

@@ClaraFrancken I have actually discussed doing that before!

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@grantmartin6094 Oh cool!! Hope you'll be able to make that happen... And how about cycling, are you a cyclist? And if so, in which sense can you relate to what William is saying?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

Thanks! Very useful interview. Keep up the good work.

[@ClaraFrancken]

oh thank you so much!!!

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

@@ClaraFrancken Very happy to support you. I was hoping doing this might lead more people to see this great video

[@ClaraFrancken]

hope it will !! BTW I didn't forget the podcast episode! Will write you about it :)

[@Cycle2life]

This was awesome! Thank you!

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for saying that!!

[@williamspencer7067]

I’m glad you found the video useful. Are you a long distance cycle person yourself? What sort of cycle tours do you go on?

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

Are you a long distance cyclist?

[@bhutantuskmotorcycletours8438]

Inspiring, I am doing soon inside my country. Watching from Bhutan 🇧🇹

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh how nice! For how many km or days will you travel through your country?:)

[@bhutantuskmotorcycletours8438]

Since we live in a mountainous country,we will be able to cover only like 100 km in a day.so let's see.Right now it's in a planning stage because of your video 😁 your video inspired me .

[@williamspencer7067]

@@bhutantuskmotorcycletours8438 I’m glad the video inspires you. Do you travel by bicycle, as well as by motorcycle? The mountain roads must make bicycling very difficult! Is it possible to travel to flat terrain in, say, India. Is that possible? Although I know the traffic can be very heavy there. Anyway, good luck with your planning!

[@bhutantuskmotorcycletours8438]

@@williamspencer7067 yah I ride motorcycle and I ride Bicycle as well because both has it's own happiness. Regarding riding to India it is possible but yah too much traffic and air is polluted. I prefer riding in Bhutan only ,clean air,stunning views every now and than and always safe 😁

[@williamspencer7067]

@@bhutantuskmotorcycletours8438 That is great. I only like cycling in fresh air--I do not like cycling with a lot of traffic! I can only imagine how beautiful the mountains must be...

[@igncahyo]

Indonesian here... the longest bike trip I've had was 600 km over the course of 5 days. Not a hardcore kind of tour. I stayed in hotels. Watching your video brings those memories back. Funny how now I think those times were wonderful and I enjoyed it so much where in reality I was really suffering from heat and fatigue. Having said that I still want to do it again someday... It was such a fulfilling experience.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi Cahyo, I'm really happy that watching this video brings back memories :) And hopefully it indeed inspires you to go for your next trip as soon as you can! Which direction would you like to travel to? :)

[@williamspencer7067]

Cahyo: yes, it's strange how tough times can become, in memory, good times. How is cycling in Indonesia? I imagine there is a lot of traffic on the roads. I visited twice Tulungagung, near Surabaya--but that was many years ago--and not on a bicycle! Let me know if you are interested to read my book--I can send you an ecopy...

[@bigmikeshooter]

Great story Clara and very inspirational. Greetings from Greece...

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hi, thank you so much!! I'm happy it inspires you! Do you travel by bicycle often or wish to do so?:)

[@williamspencer7067]

Glad you enjoyed the story. Greece, with its many mountains must be a difficult country for cycling. Or, are there areas of Greece where it is flatter?

[@bigmikeshooter]

@@ClaraFrancken thanks for the answer. I'm not traveling very often because of my job but i dreamt to... Wish you health and long rides...

[@bigmikeshooter]

@@williamspencer7067 I'm living in Southern Greece and it's a good place for cycling because we haven't big mountains and uphills...

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@bigmikeshooter Thank you! Well, I can understand that it's more difficult with a job. I also realized this since I started working last year. Hoping your dreams will come true once you can make time for them :)

[@1uniqueislander968]

I met legendary Bicycle traveler Heinz Stucke in 97' in Osaka Japan. Finally did it.. 2018 Hokkaido and then 2019 South Korea. I live in a small tropical island, Guam in middle of Pacific Ocean. No choice I always have to fly out, gets very expensive. Great story, I want to read his book. 👍

[@williamspencer7067]

Wow, Heinz was a legend. I have seen on KZbin that Hokkaido is great for cycling. Yes, I can imagine you get ‘stir crazy’ on Guam. Maybe you need a giant hamster wheel to cycle in, with a view of the beach?😉

[@ClaraFrancken]

Amazing! And when you fly out, can you take your bike with you or do you rent one on the mainland when you arrive? :) and yes, read the book if you're interested ^^ it's beautiful and full with stories

[@1uniqueislander968]

@@ClaraFrancken Hello. I look foward to buying the book. I fly with my bicycle, airline check in as sports equipment. USA my only expensive option to fly to for any bicycle tour during this Pandemic. Asia mostly closed to foreign travelers.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@1uniqueislander968 oh okay, thank you for explaining! Have fun on your next trip in the USA :)

[@davidearl4022]

I don't think you needed to tell us William is British.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Haha okay ✌

[@williamspencer7067]

Haha. Exactly right!

[@Vasudha8]

Book of the Year for me! I can't wait for the audio version to come out. I have so much admiration for what you undertook. And I'm so happy that you kept a diary so that you could share your adventures in such detail. I wish I had done the same.

[@ClaraFrancken]

yes his book was beautiful, I already recommended it to a couple of my friends too :D Did you also travel for such a long distance by bike?

[@williamspencer7067]

Thanks, Vasudha. Audiobook ready in a few weeks...

[@Vasudha8]

@@williamspencer7067 That’s fantastic news. I have been listening to the same three books for three years and I need a break lol

[@Vasudha8]

@@ClaraFrancken no, I hitched from England to India in 1971. I landed up in the same place as William but just a little earlier. We were in the same place at the same time in 1977, I think, but we did not meet until a few years later in the States.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@Vasudha8 oh amazing!! How nice that you met each other. Do you feel like you share the same experience and feelings towards your journey? Or was it very different due to hitch hiking?:)

[@Volkmannx]

👍

[@ClaraFrancken]

😊

[@williamspencer7067]

🚵🏻‍♂️🚴🏻‍♀️

[@jsk125]

I started reading William's book a week ago. I have enjoyed every moment of it. William is a great storyteller. I look forward to what new adventures William will take the reader on each day as I open the book.

[@williamspencer7067]

Jeff..thanks for the endorsement! I’m so glad you are enjoying the book. The original journey was an adventure, writing the book another kind of adventure. And now, a third adventure..hoping it will get noticed on social media…

[@ClaraFrancken]

Oh amazing I enjoyed the adventure a lot while reading his book! Happy to hear that you're loving it too!

[@SC-hk6ui]

That fake stone trick is genius.

[@ClaraFrancken]

Hahaha yeah I think so too!! Did you ever try it?

[@SC-hk6ui]

@@ClaraFrancken I haven't. I'm focussing right now on really good front and rear security/incident cameras. The UK is one of those places where you could go to prison for threatening to throw something, so this would only work if there was evidence that those actions were reasonable.

[@ClaraFrancken]

@@SC-hk6ui haha okay! and that sounds interesting, have you found any good brands ?

[@SC-hk6ui]

@@ClaraFrancken Yes and no. I think the best solution is to have a small body camera in case you get separated from your bicycle due to a road rage incident or a crash. I think for the rear camera that a seat-post mounted action camera in a case is fairly ideal. You can then run the batteries from your rear rack trunk bag and power it indefinitely. For the body camera, I like the Boblov W1 and C18 because they have night vision and will always keep you safe wherever you go. You just need to plug it into a battery pack from your stem bag when you are riding and have a battery pack in your pocket when you are hiking or shopping. For helmet cameras, I do like the waterproof Chilli Tech Bullet camera. For the rear-facing action camera on my seat-post, something like a Akasa, V50 or Apeman looks really good. They can be left in the waterproof case penetrated by a charging cable. Motion stabilisation and 60 fps seems to be the ultimate goal, but they should capture tailgating, stalking, and most collisions. Providing that drivers see them, I should get a lot more respect. We prosecute everyone who drives within 1.5 metres of a bicycle.

[@SC-hk6ui]

@@ClaraFrancken The winner is going to be two Akaso V50 Pro (possibly SE version). They are little action cameras that are very cheap, and have good sound, 4k, and full motion stabilisation, and 120GB loop recording. I contacted Akaso and they told me that you can power them continuously from a battery pack. I will put one on my seat post and another on my helmet. You can get really decent videos with them. They are not quite as good as the latest GoPro, but I have been told that one on the helmet will make drivers behave properly. For dogs in dodgy countries, then I will be getting gaiters or overshoes made from stab proof fabric. Not quite the same as having airy legs, but I am hoping to avoid rabies, and it's actually a very lightweight material, impervious to dogs teeth.

[@handsonbrompton7875]

👍

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you!

[@williamspencer7067]

🚴🏻‍♀️

[@alicefrancken2217]

Good video!!

[@williamspencer7067]

Clara did a great job of interviewing me: thoughtful questions, and wonderful video editing! It has generated good interest in my book. Have you read it?

[@ClaraFrancken]

thank you!!!

[@williamspencer7067]

@@ClaraFrancken You are welcome

[@bikepackingandbicycletouring]

You may be interested: I've now set up a KZbin channel with tips about long-distance cycling: www.youtube.com/@bikepackingandbicycletouring

[@teozongoli3738]

th love it thank you

[@ClaraFrancken]

Amazing! Are you also traveling by bike?

[@williamspencer7067]

glad you enjoyed this video. Do you travel long distance by bicycle? What country are you in? What are the cycling conditions like in your country?

[@richarddirksen4501]

Thank you Clara, great video 🙏❤

[@ClaraFrancken]

Thank you for saying that! Do you have travel plans any time soon?:)

[@richarddirksen4501]

@Clara Francken Thank you for your reply. Now Covid is ending in Europe, we're off on our bikes last week in May. No idea where we will be going; we just go and be surprised 😊

[@williamspencer7067]

@@richarddirksen4501 Ha! I'm headed to Europe in May, also. Taking 4 months to do a big tour: UK, then to friends in south of France, than back north, and perhaps the EV2 to Berlin. So many great EV route options, it's hard to choose!

[@richarddirksen4501]

@@williamspencer7067 Cool, visiting major cities! You're absolutely right regarding the EV's, it's hard to choose. Facing this luxury problem we're thinking in starting the EV15 in Switzerland and at some point changing to one of the other EV's. Summer 2022 looks bright. Finally...🤗

[@williamspencer7067]

@@richarddirksen4501 Yes, indeed... a high-class problem. It will feel SO very good to be back out on two wheels again...