Cycling the TransAmerica Bike Trail "The Dreaded Middle Third": Pueblo, Co to Carbondale, IL

[@shane4176]

" when you go looking for adventure, don't complain when you find it" I love that and it's so true.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

So true. I have to remind myself sometimes. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!!

[@jfreeham]

Anyone can love the mountains, it takes someone with soul to love the plains.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I especially like the small towns and the local people. I've rode across the great plains several times. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!!😎

[@gaypreator8547]

Absolutely. I grew up in the Mountains. They are wonderful but once I moved out into the plains, felt like I was home, could breathe, and never left. I love it all but prefer being able to see.

[@deezynar]

I appreciate that you say positive things about the places you pass through. Nobody likes to hear outsiders bashing their hometown, so it's great to hear you give some love to small towns that most people just fly past. I also like that you show a map with the exact roads that you have taken.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I love riding through rural America and going through small towns. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!!

[@fm7319]

He’s not 100% positive…he wouldn’t be 100% honest if he.

[@expat_eric]

This dude rules! great video and great commentary. Loved it! " When you go looking for adventure and complain when you find it"

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I'm glad you liked it. Thanks again!

[@aurisnow]

@@paulsuchecki3985 yeah man. Good stuff. You are as real as it gets, respect and inspiration. Great choice on the tunes also.

[@hybridadventuresLV]

Paul, I'm from the Missouri Ozarks. In fact, you pass by my Grandparents farm between Hartville and Houston MO. I used to ride that stretch and catch other cyclists and offer water and fruit. For some reason, you really resonate with me because I too like to enjoy solo adventures. I really enjoy your homemade videos. They are real and wholesome. Keep it up the awesome lifestyle Paul.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks, Cole. My wife spent some time growing up in Missouri. We both enjoy the Ozarks. The hills are pretty challenging on a bike. Thanks for looking out for us bikers. The world could always use more Trail Angels. Thanks again for watching. Hope to see you down the road!

[@joshriles84]

I'm in Marshfield, he rode past my wife's grandparents farm in hartville lol.. hoping to do the katy soon myself.. first tour

[@jimmyjames1916]

My mantra was "It's just wind. They're just hills." Thanks for sharing.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

'Cause if you don't, the wind and the hills will get to ya! It is just as much mental as it is physical and that's how you win the mental battle. Whatever it takes. Happy riding!

[@madcitywendy]

The most beautiful sunrise I have experienced was outside Salinas, KS. Crawled out of my tent for a little piece of heaven.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Sorry about the late response. Thanks for watching. I love Kansas sunrises. Stay safe and ride on!!

[@katsujinkin60]

Your videos are always an inspiration to reach beyond what I thought was possible. I'm 72 and still pushing those boundaries. Thank you for setting such a great example. Be Well and Prosper!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks so much. I really appreciate it. So, it's working then? LOL! Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on! (Sorry for the slow response).

[@katsujinkin60]

@@paulsuchecki3985All the best to you!

[@peterandkodiak9762]

Paul. YOU hit the "ball out of the park",.......every time! Your videos are A+

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks so much. I appreciate it! 😎

[@gmaneis]

Wow, Paul, I liked everything about your video. You didn't sugar coat anything or act overly excited like so many do on videos like this one. Your commentary and camera work made me really feel the grit of the ride with you. Thanks!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching, I appreciate your kind comments. I've always felt the same way about how bike touring is sometimes presented, like it's fun all the time. I've been bike touring for decades and I find it to be painful. But nobody wants to talk about that part. I can see why though. If I showed in my video how painful it can be sometimes, fewer people would go bike touring. Of course I'm kidding, but only half kidding. No seriously, bike touring is hard, but that's what I like about it. I've always said it's about managing fatigue, managing pain, managing heat and hydration. And through all that you really get to know your own body. And you usually find out you can do more than you thought you could. After a long hard tour I feel like Superman, for about a week, and then it goes away. Sorry for the long reply. Thanks again!

[@gmaneis]

@@paulsuchecki3985 I appreciate your long reply. I also agree about nobody wanting to bike tour if you showed the painful parts. Heck, maybe they wouldn't even make it all the way through just watching the video!!!! :-)

[@ericjohnson8571]

Another great video. Your wife must be a saint! Letting you go off on these great adventures.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again, Buddy. And, yes she is. She puts up with a lot!

[@scottbaker9200]

Hey Paul! I really appreciate your delivery. Thanks for all that you share. You have indeed inspired me. I grew up around Alton, went to school in Carbondale, and now live in Reno. I’ve made the trip by airplane, car, trucks d trailer, and motorcycle. Now I’ll make it on a bicycle. See you someday soon my friend. Sb

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it! Sounds like a great trip. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!! Go Salukis!

[@davewheeler5573]

Watched a lot of touring vids looking for my next adventure and yours stands out, because you speak in a matter-of-fact, educational, historical perspective that us middle-aged guys love to do. Good to see Chester, too. On my Mississippi Paddle in 2015 I camped on the bank under a train bridge at Chester. Great adventure, Mr. Suchecki. Thanks for sharing with us commoners and Happy Trails, sir.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and leaving the kind words. I see that you've spent some time on the PCT. I am jealous. My back won't let me do that any more. A few years ago I biked part of the Sierra/Cascade route, basically the PCT by road bike. Also, I've always wanted to paddle the Mississippi. You sir, are no commoner! Happy trails to you and thanks again!

[@simpletruth5224]

I really like your delivery style. I’ll be watching more of your videos.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@jemlikestoridebikes]

Finally, I can see America in a new perspective, already hit subscribe 🙂

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for the support. I appreciate it!! 😎

[@garydcall9644]

Paul, Thank you very much for bringing us along. I can only dream. Thanks again and be safe.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching, I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!! Sorry for the slow response.

[@davidcawthorne7115]

Love the hand drawn map. And your positive attitude. Good stuff. 😊❤

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@mennodekhuyzen7523]

Thank you for the remembering of that wonderful TransAm part. Your American comment was refreshing and great! I hope to visit your country again in about 22 months and cycle the continental divide route than. I will retire at that time, no time pressure anymore!😉

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching, I really appreciate it. I just retired this year. I hope to see you out riding the countryside some day. Stay safe and ride on!!😎

[@Walt1119]

Great video Paul! That was a long ride, lots of wide open scenery and great little towns. Love ur commentary also, thanks so much for sharing with us!!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again. Riding across the great plains is pretty cool. Stay safe and ride on!

[@bradrnstyle]

Awesome experience. In 2004 I rode my bicycle from Springfield, MO to Astoria, OR. Cant wait to do it again! We didn't have all this technology back then so I think I have about 5-ish pictures from the whole thing! Its nice to remember it via other peoples videos!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Awesome! Thanks for watching. In 2004 I rode part of Lewis and Clark, and yeah, I had a crappy (by today's standards) digital camera. Thanks again, hope to see you on the road!

[@benthompson4444]

I’m a recently retired school teacher from Georgia. I bike toured as a younger person. Look forward to touring again now. Your clips are amazing. Thank you for providing this inspiration for me. I plan on biking the Erie, GAP,C and O, and perhaps Katy trail this summer and fall.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Sounds like a full summer. I'm a 'soon to be' retired school teacher. I've got 3 years to go, them I'm going on tour full time. This summer, however, I'm staying home. Next year I would like to ride to Alaska, at least that's what I've been telling my wife. Anyways, Thanks for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment. Much appreciated!!! Have fun bike touring!

[@garyhertswildcamper8958]

You go out looking for adventure. Dont complain when you find it. Love that saying. Good vid man, excellent editing and commentary.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment.

[@gomitch2]

I took a nap at Arlington and LOVED that outdoor toilet. It's was so amazingly set up by "someone" with hospitality giftings.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching! There's not much out there. Arlington is a must stop.

[@mychal5057]

Hope all is well with you and the family Mr. Suchecki! It’s great to see you keeping yourself healthy physically and mentally doing something you love! Thank you for all prior guidance and laughs in the classroom, there are too few of you out there. - Mychal Gibbens

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thank you Mychal. I hope all is well with you and yours. I'm just trying to follow the advice of one sign I saw and particularly liked: "Get Busy Living!" Take care my Friend.

[@markspencer912]

Your storytelling skills are amazing. Also very informative.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@nickkowal6537]

Thank you. Transamerica is on my bucket list once i make it across from the UK one day

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The Transamerica is a great ride. I hope to ride in the UK some day. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!😎

[@nelsoncaraballo9446]

Love watching your videos. Like all the history you introduce us too. Thank you for taking us along. Bike on!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!!

[@bryanwehmeyer]

Love it! You ARE a cowboy!!!!!! That’s some excellent narration. I’m a fan.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.

[@bertski60]

Much enjoyed. You got a different "style" than most bikepackers, but i like it. Keep it up and good luck!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching, I really appreciate it. Hope to see you down the road. Stay safe and ride on!! Sorry for the slow response. 😎

[@gailnewcomb8256]

Dang goatheads. I hate those thorny things! 68 years and I haven’t figured out why God made them or mosquitoes for that matter. ❤ I love your videos.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Goatheads are a drag. I've had mant flat tires from them. They have tire liners to help prevent flats, but I never think of it until it's too late. I haven't gone tubeless yet. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!!

[@freesteveman9712]

I am glad the KZbin algorithm drove me to this video. Great story thanks for taking me along.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Me too. Thanks for coming along. Hope you check out my other bike touring videos. Thanks again!

[@dannyschubert9853]

Great video! Was awesome you mentioned my home town Walnut Grove. You rode past my house about 7 miles East of there. Since I live on route 76 I long to ride it! Thought I’d have to be retired, but I do have vacation! Doing it in sections is a great idea!! Keep riding and please make another video!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. SW MO is just about as middle America as you can get. I love rural parts of the country like that for their authenticity. It's the real America! Ride on and stay safe.

[@edwardbenton4428]

Hi ! Late to the party. I was born in Florence Colorado, about 30 miles west of Pueblo. I live in Massachusetts now. I do miss Colorado. Goat heads and bicycle tires, definitely don't mix. You've an awesome channel TY

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I agree, goat heads suck! Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and Ride on!

[@briandonahue3663]

Your videos are Awesome! Real.motavating as well.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@Jedi_Pimp]

I love to see that map move you have a great channel and spark my interest in doing this baby step's for sure but I have a route and a ideal. Thanks for the inspiration.✌️❤️✌️

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. Baby steps for sure. Stay safe out there!😎

[@pleasetellmeitworks]

You're the G.O.A.T., keep it up

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!!😎

[@charlieprice6835]

Paul I don't understand why you don't have 100k subscribers. These are the best touring videos I've found!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Wow, thanks! I really appreciate it. Ride on!!

[@Michael-ch8hq]

Because Paul keeps it real with no gimmicks or reaction faces in his thumbnails and his gear is solid and practical, he just rides and records

[@fredrose7801]

I love riding the vast spaces of the prairie in the company of a few other riders. We work together in the wind and melt away the miles. Camping for the night cools us off and we enjoy the spectacular sky with popcorn thunderstorms and moonlight. I’ve crossed many states and mountain ranges. After 24 crossings from Colorado to Missouri I’m ready to do it again.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Sounds great! I agree. Let's go, you don't have to twist my arm. 😁

[@varkonyitibor4409]

I really liked your narration style. Simple and sincere and just good to listen.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching! I really appreciate it.😎

[@briansmith8470]

Like the drone shots!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@CanyonWanderer]

Greetings from Europe!, I really loved this video, the story, your narrative, laid-back mood of taking on challenges, humor and nice footage / drone shots. What a nice adventure (and no complaining about that). Thanks for taking us along !!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching! I love the international audience on KZbin. Europe is definitely on my list. Too many places to go and not enough time (something to complain about). Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, etc. !!!! I bought a better drone. Thanks again.

[@CanyonWanderer]

@@paulsuchecki3985 Nice!, lol, my bucket list is also growing all the time 😀

[@e.sorensen699]

I love your style. Very inspiring. From Colorado.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I hope to be riding in the Rockies this summer. Hope to see you down the road.

[@Thylacine1]

Your videos and attitude are top notch man, thank you so much for making these. Very cool you were able to roll up to the house at the end and you have beautiful wife and piece of God's Country at the end of the ride. What a gift life can be :)

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks!! I really appreciate it. Southern Illinois is a well kept secret. We love it down here. Stay safe and ride on!

[@The-GreenHornet]

I liked this video and your narration. Simple and honest and to the point. I rode from Chanute, Ks to Pueblo, Co with my dad and his friend back in 2014 on our recumbent trikes. I remembered much of all those roads and towns between Chanute and Pueblo. Great video 👍

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I'm riding the eastern portion of the TransAm right now. More videos to come. Thanks again!

[@lilqu33n]

You make the best bike tour videos on youtube. I love your commentary and it seems like you really have a lot of fun riding around. I hope you get to go on another bike tour soon and make more videos!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and thanks so much for the nice comments! I've got one video coming out soon that I'm working on. And I've got big plans for summer. I hope they work out. Thanks again!

[@stacyndog]

I agree with you. I’ve watched this video and the Lake Michigan video. Paul, I love how you are so matter of fact. Gotta get on down the road. 😃

[@paulsuchecki3985]

@@stacyndog Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate it.

[@philiporourke7896]

Great music and vid. Thanx dude.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again, Buddy. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!

[@towtowstrailtalk6853]

Awesome video, Love how you just tackle everything nice and slow!!! And I do believe that southern Illinois people are a little tougher than the rest of the world. God bless you sir thanks for the video

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching! At my age, I do just about everything slow. But I've never been built for speed. I'm usually not in a hurry, unless I am, if you know what I mean. I always figured, if you're in a hurry, maybe you should get a motorcycle! Yeah, folk in this part of the country are of pretty hearty stock, I think it's an Ohio Valley thing. Southern Indiana, Southern Ohio, Northern Kentucky, Southern Illinois. But, Thank you again and God bless you as well. Thanks!

[@freddixon]

Best damn bicycle journey video that I have watched in a long time. Well done and thanks for sharing ;

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment, I appreciate it.

[@mathewadams2929]

Really like your delivery on the commentary. You've got a dry wit that i enjoy.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks. Glad you liked it!

[@commutercyclist76]

Very informative! Thank you!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe out there!

[@shakapedia17]

I personally thought that section was great. I remember the (official) TransAm crossed a previous self-designed TransAm route I rode the year before, intersecting in Cassoday, KS, and that brought back fond memories. More excitingly though, there were tornadoes with a dark greenish sky one night near Eads, - quite wild. And there were more tornadoes down near Ste. Geneviève close to the Mississippi crossing. I really liked being able to see the next town 20 miles down the road on that stretch, it's so flat. The big grain towers of each town can nearly be seen from the previous town! There was also a very pretty lake along that route we camped at one night.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I really like riding across the plains also. I like the emptiness of it. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!

[@gaypreator8547]

Highway 96, I love Kansas. No one can sneak up on you out here. The Great Plains. A Geological Marvel.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Long, flat and straight. Finding shade can be challenging. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!

[@magnus9165]

I watch you and Ryan Van Duzer for biking. I enjoy your videos.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks. I really appreciate it. Ryan Van Duzer's has some great videos. Ride on!!

[@ridetillidie8090]

So glad I took a shot at watching the 'old guy' ride! Love your narration and the way you show your miles and route! Great videos. Stay safe!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I'm glad you did too. Thanks for watching. Ride on!

[@josepharmstrong91]

The best video ever!! I watched it all!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks!!

[@santi9359]

Love you and your vids!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching!

[@shelbycriswellart]

Just stumbled across your channel and I love the way you narrate this. Feels like I'm watching a History Channel documentary or something. I love it! As my dad used to say, "Keep on Keepin' on!"

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and leaving the nice comments. I just got back from bike touring, so more videos will be coming out soon. My dad used to say, "If you want to keep moving, then you got to keep moving!" Thanks again!!!

[@shelbycriswellart]

@@paulsuchecki3985 Hah, our dads were on the same page. I'm heading out for an overnighter at the end of the month. If you ever find yourself in San Antonio, TX, I'm more than happy to lend over my spare bedroom for a night!

[@tomsitzman3952]

Good journey and narration. First time I have seen this video of yours. I've been touring by hiking kayak, canoe and bike for 55 plus years, never get tired of being one with the trail. I like your old school way of biking. Just Keep it Simple Stupid. No showing off your gear how it is the latest great idea and bragging how you saved one ounce on your new stoves weight. No fancy racing shoes clipped into the peddles. Just sensible flat peddles and old school toe clips. Too many young people have bought into all the corporate BS. A suggestion to help the want-a-bees. So many are not aware you can camp in the city parks in little towns. It would be nice to show your camp set up in a little town or two along the way. or stopping in a small town Cafe to chat with the locals. Keep on trekking down the byways and living life as light as a feather. I live on the Prairie and the wind was 45mph today.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again Tom. I've road across the Great Plains about 6 times. Including these states: Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, N. & S. Dakota, Montana (some more than once). Very little tourism, just real people. Thanks.

[@anigiainvhi1799]

Great video Paul! Thank you for giving some added inspiration to an old man. Just retired a week ago and have planned on bicycle touring the rest of my years away.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching! I'm jealous, I've still got 1 or 2 years left, then I'm going full-time bike touring. Hope to see you down the road.

[@Iliketoadventure]

Great video! Enjoyed your adventure -thanks for sharing! 😎👍

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!! 😁

[@Iliketoadventure]

​@@paulsuchecki3985 Hey Paul, I enjoyed rewatching your video! I'm considering this "dreaded middle third" of the Transam this Spring in order to complete the remaining third portion of my coast to coast ride completed over the past few years. It would be a new section of the country to bike travel for me too- always exciting. From your recollection, how were the dogs? This seems like a lot of nice riding through the countryside, open fields, farmlands, small towns, etc...prime dog territory too haha! Also, how do you protect yourself from dog attacks? Of course, seems inevitable out there on the road. I've definitely had my share of dog encounters and always dread the next one. always open to hearing how other cyclist manage this situation. Hope all is well...cheers!

[@joeljones4080]

Oh man I’m enjoying these videos. Good editing, dry (I love dry), crisp and humorous narrative. Good music. Keep producing, please.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I appreciate the comments. I'm working on a new one, but I didn't do much traveling this year. Thanks again!

[@jeremylutersz3374]

Great video Paul, I really liked the GoPro handle you were using 👍🇨🇦

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. The GoPro is a sure steady camera that I used a lot. It good to have it handy where you need it. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!😎✌

[@porthos707]

Oh lonesome Ordway! If I would have known you where heading this way I would have brought you a nice big meal! If I see bicycle tourist that stop at that little water park across from the hotel you stayed at I always bring a nice big plate of food for them. I know this is a long boring rode to ride on

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Ordway is a nice little town. I stayed at the hotel and ate across the street at a burger joint. Thanks for taking care of the bikers, we all appreciate it!

[@sacratomato7]

Great ride, great video! Really enjoyed the commentary. And those maps ... I hope to ride this route someday.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I do have a fascination with maps! I can stare at them for hours. Enjoy the ride, hope to see you on the road!

[@nsick]

I loved this video and your others! They keep your attention and they're packed with grains of wisdom. I actually studied the tallgrass prairie from 11:00 and other natural communities of the Midwest as part of a master's degree, so I was excited when you mentioned it. You're definitely right that sanctuaries like that provide crucial habitat for migrating species. You had mentioned that having the right frame of mind is crucial on a trip like that and how it's better to visualize the landscape through a historical perspective-- and I'd add that experiencing restored TGP is the epitome of that! The high plains were once covered in beautiful, biodiverse prairies, and were maintained by Indigenous Peoples for millennia prior to the takeover by settlers of European descent. It's definitely neat. Anyway, I'm headed on my first bike tour through Michigan this week and I'll try to remember some of your tips!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Very cool! My wife and I met in grad school. We both have masters' in forest ecology. She did her research at Fult's Hill Prairie in southern Illinois. I did mine at Pine Hills also in southern Illinois. Most people think Kansas is boring. Thats because they drive by at 70 mph and miss everything. Much better on a bike. You can stop anywhere and see much more. Thanks for watching. Stay safe and ride on!

[@Samsky44]

Great video thanks really enjoyed it. Love your bike I have a Miyata 1000 bought it in 1987 and been touring with it ever since. Keep the videos coming. We have some great trails in Canada put some winter tires on that Miyata and head on up!!!!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

The Miyata 1000 is like the Cadillac of bicycles. I don't know why anyone rides anything else. My goal is to ride to Alaska from Montana. How about Nova Scotia? Eh? No kidding, I would love to ride in Canada!!!

[@Samsky44]

@@paulsuchecki3985 Can't go wrong going out to the east coast. My first long distance ride in 1987 was out in the Maritimes flew to Halifax then rode through Nova Scotia, PEI and New Brunswick, great scenery awesome people. Just watched your Ohio to Erie bike trip that's on my list now looked like fun. I'm planning the Transamerica route in 2023 when I retire. Looking forward to more of your videos once the world gets back to normal and we beat this thing.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

@@Samsky44 I've always wanted to ride up in that area of Canada, but it's just one place on a long list of places I need to go. Yeah, this summer was a drag, I had big plans. My only ride was a 3 day gravel ride, socially distanced of course. Video coming soon. But just wait, next summer is gonna be awesome. Thanks again! I also get to retire in 2023. Big plans!

[@mikelowham8242]

Great video Paul. I recognized the British couple at the beginning. They stayed with me in Lander. Way to rule the saddle!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks, Mike. Glad you liked it. Ride on bro'.

[@austinrussell32044]

Awesome video! I loved the colorful commentary. Thank you for including us in your journey!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment. I appreciate it!

[@MG-bc7kn]

Great inspiring video! So many great places to see! Thanks for sharing!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks again.

[@katyaregan6832]

Very inspiring great info! I really am hoping things line up to bike across the USA. “when you go looking for adventure don’t complain when you find it”

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I hope so too! A trip you will never forget. Thanks for watching. Stay safe and ride on! Hope to see you down the road.

[@flozibr]

Amazing video mate! Greetings from Iceland 🇮🇸

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Hey, thanks! Greetings back at you from southern Illinois, USA.

[@bikinmike3274]

I'm glad I found your channel! Your videos are great! Thank you for sharing!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!

[@agalletly88s]

Great work. Loved everything about "my ride" with you. Even made the "boring" part of the ride rather fun. Thanks!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. The Trans Am is by now an iconic bike ride. So many people have traveled that route and can relate. It's a great way to see the country. Safe Riding!

[@tommysimmons5266]

1500 miles 5 years ago moving from Detroit to Utah. Made it to Kansas when I hit early snow by the way of Nebraska cowboy trail and then south because of weather on the original route. Try the Nebraska cowboy trail once along the elk horn river up to wounded knee and west

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I've ridden across Nebraska twice. Some find it boring. I like the great plains. I rode that section from Valentine to Chadron, parallel to the Cowboy trail. I found the trail to be a bit soft, but the shoulder of the rode was wide and beefy. The Sand Hills are amazing. Thanks again, Tommy.

[@dog-so1vj]

Excellent video. Thanks for sharing.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again for watching.

[@budcline]

Thanks for taking us along on this adventure by way of your video. The transition of the landscape from the high prairie to the Ozarks is really amazing to see. Your experiences with the headwinds in KS reminded me of all those times in central IL when we rode into the wind. You are correct in saying it is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Another great video, Paul!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks again, Bud. Hills and wind, right. Hills are ok because you always have the downhill, but strong headwinds can be really discouraging. Especially if it goes on for days. But that's bike touring. The other option I suppose is to stay home. I hope all is well with you guys. Stay Well!

[@budcline]

@@paulsuchecki3985 The wind never stopped me from going back out for more - I got mentally tough I suppose! We are well - hope all is well there.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I've heard about some of your rides. You've got to be physical and mentally tough for that. A little too fast paced for my bones. I'm kinda more of a turtle than a rabbit.

[@lovehatepassionpeeps282]

Love it! Your videos just keep getting better and better!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@tompelham4648]

Nice Mann!! Love your story:) keep on Rolling!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks!

[@busterthompson2267]

Heck yeah you killed it!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks, Man!!

[@richardwhitehead4684]

Love the old Miyata. I’ve a few myself. All the miles you’ve put on that bike speak volumes. 80’s, Japanese, steel bikes hit a real sweet spot, imo. I have a very similar Centurion Elite GT touring bike. As you’ve mentioned, it’s limited to about 32 mm tires. This is the only reason I bought a newer steel frame: it will take larger tires. That said, I still ride my old steel bikes. I actually prefer them for road riding.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

It's hard to replace my old Miyata 1000. It's like an old traveling partner. Been through a lot together. But my new Disc Trucker has fat tires and disc brakes. Just had to try it to see what all the talk was about. So far I don't hate it. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. Stay safe and ride on!!

[@bcaruthers7674]

Awesome stuff! Thanks for sharing!!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching!

[@SaemiVald]

Great video. Brings back so many memories. We rode across in 2018 and also battled crazy headwinds in Kansas.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I saw your video, I hope you enjoyed the USA. The trip looked fun.

[@michaeltodd2923]

Trail magic.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks Michael!

[@vladimirkovalenko1539]

!!! Very interesting ride and very interesting story! Hi from Siberia:))

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Wow, Thanks!! Is that Siberia, Illinois or Siberia, Russia? Thanks again and stay warm.

[@bobsimmermon8972]

Well done, Paul…thank you!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@joshuaburt4207]

Very inspiring. I'm looking forward to when I do this ride myself. Thanks!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. Enjoy the ride!

[@MrJanaRobi]

Very Cool !

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks!

[@tommysimmons5266]

Missouri State has two rivers on each side and the hills feed rain water to the rivers. What I learned about Iowa. Walked up every hill from Davenport to Decatur Nebraska took 3 weeks to cross Iowa

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Iowa is hill after hill after rolling hill. Definitely river country.

[@VesaGuardian]

Great video. You are a good presenter.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks, I appreciate that!

[@JohnM-cc6gc]

Really enjoyed your video. Happy cycling!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching!

[@bencampbell6156]

Your videos really helped me plan and encouraged me for my own transamerica tour which I'm about to start (going to opposite way!) Thanks!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Happy trails! I hope to be heading east from Carbondale shortly after memorial day. Hope to see you!

[@michaeltodd2923]

Would love to go east to west. Always looking for someone to ride with. In Tampa Bay Florida but can leave from anywhere.

[@joanoconnor8552]

I loved the TABR section through Kansas, probably because I was heading West and just finished the hills of Missouri.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

I really liked biking across Kansas as well. aThanks for watching. Ride on!

[@ltcajh]

The Plains are beautiful to me.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Me too. Thanks for watching!

[@MyRealEstateDOJO]

Nice trip!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks!!

[@gomitch2]

I remember nearly everything you mentioned from my 2019 Trans Am trip.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

It's a great ride. A lifetime full of memories. Thanks for watching!

[@PaulHamon]

4:02 I know John :) Cycle with him all the time!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

John's a great guy! He said that he did and lead tours in Asia. Thanks for watching and tell John I said "Hey".

[@bikeyclown4669]

For most of my life I lived on the High Plain, so I'm familiar with the region you rode. I like the austere, stark nature of the region, but it's not for everyone. As far as goat heads go, the trick is to figure out what the plant that produces them looks like and where it prefers to grow. It's usually a low growing plant that produces little yellow flowers. It grows along the ground in long tendrils that spread out and take over a large area, if allowed. They grow in areas that ecologists would say experienced a disturbance which means that soils are bare (like road sides). If you ride a little left of the road's edge and ride around plants that grow onto the road, you can avoid most flats. I've watched people ride right through patches of goat head plants (I did it once when I was a kid), and, if they stick in far enough and there are enough of them, your tire and tube are ruined.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I really appreciate it. I love crossing the Great Plains. I like the solitude, the vastness, the towns, the people. But you're right, you have to have a head for it. Thanks for the tip on goatheads. Hope to see you down the trail. Stay safe and ride on!

[@jogger1987]

Loved the video, I echoed the commentary matter of fact with some jokes thrown in.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for watching. I just got back from bike touring, new videos coming out soon. Thanks again!!

[@boxlid214]

Switch to tubeless, no more flats from the little stuff, they have tires you can tour on now. Check out Vittoria's Terreno lineup, I've used the Dry, Mixed, and Zeros. Most of the time I stick with Zeros for touring, but went with the Mixed ones for one extended dirt/gravel tour. The fish scale treat on the Dry ones wears down too fast, but I get plenty of mileage out of the Zeros.

[@paulsuchecki3985]

Thanks for the tip. Ride on!!

[@mhilde7744]

Modern day cowboy. Gr8 ride!!

[@paulsuchecki3985]

You got that right! Thanks for watching.