SPOKANE - Cycling USA (Ep28) - Bicycle Touring Documentary - Idaho/Washington border crossing.

[@simms196]

Great video! Beautiful area! last place I would want to ride is on a freeway, lol. My eyes would be glued to the rear view mirror. 👍

[@FlyscoutRyder]

The freeways are a bit intimidating. The biggest issue is the noice level if there is excessive traffic. Lots of freeways out west are relatively low with traffic (except I-40 and I-15) and have amazing scenery. Also a huge shoulder to ride on. Thanks for watching.

[@matthewhall8790]

I lived in Spokane for about 4 years, your video brings back fond memories.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Hi Matthew. That is an awesome region of the country and I had a ball riding thru it. One of the most memorable freeway days of my life. Thanks for watching and reaching out.

[@coug133]

Coeur de Alene and Spokane have a great trail the connects the two cities. You could have saved so much stress and enjoyed the beauty of the area if you would have known about the Centennial Trail.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

True. Not sure how I ended up in the chaos but the truth is that I-90 is actually a great freeway to ride. Its only around the cities that it gets a bit crazy. Check out tonights episode. Its of the Columbia Plateau Trail from Cheney to Sprague. Im currently riding the Empire State Trail and its really awesome too. Thanks for watching

[@twhis9843]

I-90 is a great cycling road. But after being on it for so many days, it was nice to get on the Centennial Trail. Trooper was cool, just worried about you.

[@douglaslawen863]

I came here to leave this comment. Loved the video man!

[@Jefduro1]

I was going to comment the same thing. You could literally see the Centennial trail in several clips.

[@Prettyboyskiingonleasedland]

this is awesome. I cant believe this isn't a more popular page. Its very well put together and I love how interactive you are with the camera!!! awesome work!

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Thank you for saying that. Im committed to my channel and love every part of the process starting with the cycling. Im touring across the country now and gathering the content for a fourth season. Stay tuned…

[@bbay8381]

As a cycling tourist myself, I enjoy your videos with the exception of the interstate riding. Stay safe and give yourself more time to avoid the interstates. 🙂

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Yeah I know this but it's tough if not impossible at times. Especially if you have a route that isn't already researched which is how I tour for the most part. And I also sort of like the freeway just not when it gets to be hectic like this last video. Yikes! Thanks for watching and reaching out. Two more episodes left to reach the west coast

[@Eric-rt6tg]

So dangerous and scary riding on the shoulder of the Hi way. Wouldn’t do this again man, be save. Like your uploads, great to watch, thanks for that.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

HI Eric. It actually isn't that bad at all. Highways have a huge shoulder and are mostly not busy. This episode going thru Spokane is a rare moment. I would say that ridding in the city was more dangerous with heavy traffic and hardly a bike lane. Even sidewalk riding is difficult because cars are coming in and out of here and there so you have to go slow and be hyper aware all around you. If you keep watching on you will see me ride other highways and see how safe they are. Try Prospect Mountain and Waynesburg. Thanks you for reaching out and watching.

[@Eric-rt6tg]

@@FlyscoutRyder I'll definitly do that. It just looked dangerous and that was mainly due to see you crossing these exits. I am of course spoiled and used to the infrastructure for cycling in my country (The Netherlands). By looking at your uploads, it strikes me that there are very beautiful cycling routes in the US.👌 Kind regards, Eric.

[@stefanomigliuolo3468]

Such a nice, polite trooper! Reminds me of the statie who (just as politely) told me to get off the highway in Iowa 😉

[@FlyscoutRyder]

I've been stopped twice and both times the troopers were really kind. I think they mostly don't want to have you hurt. They surly see plenty of ugly scenes during their shifts

[@NordicbyNature]

Very cool video, thank you for sharing new friend😀

[@FlyscoutRyder]

You are welcome. Four more episodes on the way to finish season 1. Sundays at 7:15pm. Currently in Vermont riding crazy steep hills

[@user-ks8rg6uv2t]

keep health with cycling, great touring documentary video.. see u

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Keep health and cycling. I like this quote. Thank you for reaching out

[@PumpkinVillage]

That traffic was nuts but Walmart came thru in the clutch.😊 Spokane was a beautiful city and the upcoming trails look to be just what you needed. Take care and stay safe, Al

[@FlyscoutRyder]

hey Al. Walmart is my mall :) The next episode is all trails and some insane scenery. I needed it after the freeway days. Its fun coming in and out of different scenarios. Take care too.

[@dog-so1vj]

That's crazy, the Walmart truck came by right when you made that statement. Couldn't have planned it any better. They should pay you for advertising...🤣

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Gotta love those Walmart trucks. Im actually a fan of the store itself. I have somethings I’ve bought there at a very affordable price that have lasted me way longer then I ever imagined

[@dog-so1vj]

@@FlyscoutRyder absolutely. Same here. You can get great deals on cycling and camping gear on line with them.

[@Jetlife408]

Love your videos

[@ingridallen7083]

Looking forward to watching more of your touring videos. So awesome! Nice to have met you in person, in Keene.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

So cool you reached out. Are you the lady I met in the bike path? You said you ride 20 to 30 miles when you do ride. Hope you stick around. Thank you for checking out my Channel

[@ingridallen7083]

Yes, that was me on the bike path. Hope you had a good stay in Keene.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

@@ingridallen7083 Keene was a kind place and I have great memories. Stay safe.

[@markmoffett6813]

Thanks again for sharing another AWESOME video Your time and effort making these films are changing people's lives Mark from Maryland

[@FlyscoutRyder]

What an awesome compliment. Thank you.

[@matthewmorken]

Ugh! That traffic stressed me out just watchin! Glad you were kept safe.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Thank you. I was glad to get out of it too. It happens, you end up some place and need to get away. Life!!! Thank you for watching and reaching out

[@cdg-hzg]

I love following your videos. You are, however, the very first cycle tourist I've ever come across who actually likes riding on interstate highway shoulders. Different strokes for different folks I guess. I'd rather take a 100 mile detour with multiple steep inclines than get on an interstate. I would probable get on an interstate if I was really pressed for time, but, thinking of your experience approaching Spokane, I'd get off as soon as I felt the traffic getting too thick. -- On this video and the last one you mentioned the advantages of cycle touring alone. Like you, I love those times when I come across people that I ride with for a few days. But, for an extended trip I really prefer riding alone for all the reasons you listed. I'd feel different if my wife rode with me, but getting her to do that is like getting a river to flow uphill. Ha! I'm grateful to get a kitchen pass for 2-to-5 weeks each year for a nice cycle journey. I used to love the hills and mountain passes, and I still ride them when I have to. But, with a fully loaded bike and 71 years behind me most of my recent trips have followed river banks or coastlines. --- Again, .... love the videos.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Interstate cycling is actually safer at times than other options but it does get a bit loud. There are also some that are way too busy and it gets crazy. Without doubt, there are almost always other options but time is often a constraint when I decide to get on one. It's all good. And yes, solo cycling is the way but doing it with friends or a spouse would is a ball too. I love the company but over all I rather be out there on my own. There is something about that. Thanks for the share and watching. Take care

[@gogorobandles]

I've enjoyed watching this series and that traffic stressed me out just watching you in amongst it but I'm glad you kept safe. I also amazed that you enjoy hills.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

I love hills. Im currently in Vermont and holly crap is it hilly here. Went 42mph today but spent most of the day struggling with insane steep hills that just punished me.

[@gogorobandles]

@@FlyscoutRyder you have a good attitude!

[@canica99]

Yeah, that riding on the interstate is not a great way for bicycle touring. I have done it when I really needed to but I try to stay away from interstates. I am fascinated with you liking the riding so much on interstates, it is so loud and the draft from the trucks can be very dangerous as that draft can suck you right into the tractor trailer and end everything....I hate it the 500 plus miles from Rapid City to Sioux Falls...hot, loud, dirty, stressful and frustrating. Glad you made it.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

I agree that it can be stressful but I also like it somehow. After a while it does get old if there is a lot of traffic. I we are my headphones but don't listen to anything so they can muffle the sound. Highways have a gentle grade that is fun with long low grade inclines and descends. Shoulders are wide and scenery is open.

[@Bunny-Power]

Yes, bicycle touring in the USA can be a nightmare for some parts. I remember one day when I was about to quit because of insane traffic. But the following days, riding some nice backroads made me change my mind and I was happy to move on.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

That is so true about bicycle touring. It's an ever changing activity with different sights and terrain coming at you all the time. Glad you stayed with it. Thanks for watching and reaching out

[@MonoLake02]

There is a. bike trail near there that is better than the freeway. There are also some good back roads to Spokane from there as well.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

The reason I ended up on I-90 is because I had been on it since Garrison, MT and from there to Coeur d'Alene its actually spectacular to be on. I was in a bit of a time crunch also so I rode myself right into that scenario in Spokane. Check out the latest episode. I ended up on a great trail after that Spokane scenario

[@laurayoung816]

I can literally see the paved bike trail over your shoulder less than ten feet away.

[@nathanyoung74]

So, do you own a phone or are unable to look off to the side of the freeway? The trail is pretty obvious in your video.

[@nopc9728]

Flyscout maybe bring a collapsible broom lol stay safe pal

[@FlyscoutRyder]

He was nice about it but definitely not on the right side of the law. I was legally allowed to ride on the lane. Thanks for checking this episode out. Great memories.

[@briankoss8061]

There is a bike path that parallels the freeway from Coeu d’Alene to Spokane. It’s much nicer than riding in the freeway.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Hi Brian. You are one of many people who have commented about the Centennial Trail along Coeur D'Alene. Check out some of the other comments on this episode where I explain why I climb and look for downhills instead of always looking for the safety of trails. Check out S2 Ep2, Prospect Mountain, and S2 Ep14, Waynesburg, if you want to see some of these season's legit downhills. Thanks for reaching out and checking out my channel. Hope you stick around.

[@randolphwright2388]

Try exploring the areas you ride. There is a “rails to trails” parallel to you route to Spokane and more in other areas with “blue Ways”

[@FlyscoutRyder]

You must not like to climb or drop on passes

[@randolphwright2388]

I really like your videos. I looked at some other ones they were also good. I’ve made more mistakes stuck on the freeway then finding another better way after. I’m impressed you found the Fish lake to Columbia park extension to Pascal etc Cheers Good riding !

[@FlyscoutRyder]

@randolphwright2388 I agree. There are times I find myself in a freeway and it is maddening. I get crazed over getting off it but in the West sometimes there are no other options. I put ear buds in and stay focused and calm and afterwards take it all in as a life experience like no other.

[@rdkuless]

The Rails-to-Trails from Coeur D' Alene thru north idaho, wyoming, and to wisconsin is a traffic free way to go.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

True but I saw Lookout Pass if I stayed on I-90 and I most often prefer to climb and drop passes than stay on flat ground. And you are totally right about the cop not having his law straight. I defended my point telling him that the shoulder was a dirty mess and I had to get on the lane. He insisted that I be careful and that he had my safety in mind. He was kind enough about it so all good. That's the second time I've been pulled over. The first time the trooper actually detained me in the back seat. It was Kentucky and I was on the Cumberland Parkway where cyclists are not allowed. Take care and thank you for watching and reaching out.

[@bennettshfd2]

In NY it's against the law to ride on the interstate. Is that the only way, or the most direct?

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Most of the eastern half ion the country doesn't allow bicycles on their freeways but the western half mostly does. This officer actually didn't have any right to ticket me or even pull me over. He was nice though and mostly wanted me to not get hurt. In Idaho and Washington state you are allowed to use the freeway lanes if the shoulders are not ridable which was the case on this stretch. The reason I ended up this freeway stretch is because I had been on I-90 since Garrison, Montana and it was actually very pleasant until this part. So I kept at it and ended up in this predicament.

[@gmun8818]

There's alot going on in that 70 miles of Idaho panhandle. The police are always thick through there but if you're doing nothing wrong the are usually very kind. Thanks for the video!

[@FlyscoutRyder]

The trooper was so nice. I like police presence so appreciate him stopping me to chat it up. It was cool when he said he didn't want me getting creamed by a car.

[@Zenbivy]

There's a 100 mile long bike path called the Centennial Trail that goes along I-90, but is not on 1-90. Next time, check the map....

[@FlyscoutRyder]

True but that trail is flat without a climb or a legit downhill to take in. I actually love to gain elevation. Without hills and mountains in my cycling I would likely omit cycling all together and drive a car. Next time, try the road less traveled

[@ranxxerox6407]

06:10 Dance like your life depends on it - groovy dude!

[@FlyscoutRyder]

So cool you liked that. Its a mix of endorphins and good tunes. I rarely do it but when the occasion happens...

[@icpchad]

Why ride interstates?

[@FlyscoutRyder]

It's actually a great way to go some times. For instance, on this occasion in MT into Idaho I was coming from Missoula and it is the only way to go. I didn't know about the Court d'Alene bike trail until after I rode over Lookout Pass but either way I love climbing and downhilling so I was in my element. Highway cycling in the western half of the country is totally legal except in small sections as well. The shoulders are huge so plenty of space. The only issue is if you are in a c congested one because the noise level is way high and it can get to you. I wear my ear buds without playing any music or anything. By the way, that police officer was not in the right to tell me not to ride the freeway. I was completely legal to ride it as well as to get on the actual lane. It's my right to do so. If you want to know more about this subject you could read the comments in this episode form 2022. Lots of people have put their two sense into this. Take care and thank you for watching.

[@dorothytheuyfanatic5118]

Hey there. You saw me earlier today.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Hi Michael. So cool to have met you and your grandpa today. Thanks for reaching out. Hope you like my channel

[@dorothytheuyfanatic5118]

Your video is cool.

[@StarEssences]

Are you familiar with bike path ways that is the way of doing a TransAmerica Ride across America? If so, lead me where I can find these bike paths. :)

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Great question. For starters, to cross the Unites States a cyclist has to ride on roads for good chuncks of the way regardless of how many rail trails and bike paths you try to go on. There are plans for a continuous bike route, The Great American Rail Trail (53% completed) across the country but that is a few years if not decades from being realized. But I don't believe crossing the country is that necessary even though a great goal. There are many insanely beautiful and well maintained rail trails to go for long tours on. In Missouri there is the KATY Trail, In New York State there is the Empire State Trail and in Pennsylvania and Maryland you have the GAP Trail. That's only three of many. If you look at the Rails to Trails Conservancy website you will find many more, or just google your states rail trail and you will likely see the list. There is also the East Coast Greenway Trail which goes from Maine to Key West, Florida but even though it is all designated a trail it does make riders have to get on many roads along the way. I hope this answers your question. Let me know

[@pppjourneyonabike5992]

Crazy the police say Don't use the lane. I understand the risk drivers won't pay attention, but it's legal to use the lane.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

It's totally legal to do and he knew it. That's why he didn't give me a written warning which I have been given before while riding freeways that prohibit cycling, Cumberland and Cherokee Parkways. Thanks for watching.

[@four-x-trading5606]

This is why Backcountry is better lol

[@Punkyrooster6]

Always strange seeing your city through outsider’s eyes. It’s a pity you didn’t know about the trail network. It would have saved you a lot of stress.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Not sure how I ended up on I-90 getting thru Spokane but once on it I rode it out. I sort of like the commotion but only for so long. I was also in a hurry these last days as I needed to get back home without delay. My father, who passed this January, shared time with me and my sister so I needed to get home to care for him. On the next episode I share Lake Fish Trail and then the Columbia Plateau Trail into Sprague. Please check it out and let me know what you think. Thanks for watching

[@tomfield2292]

You could have gotten on the car-free Centennial trail and finally off the freeway.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Hi Tom. You are right! The thing is that I really like climbing and downhills so when I see a chance at a pass ahead of me I take it. Well, not always but if I have the time and feel it I go for it. On this occasion I was ridding from Missoula on I-90 and it made sense. Thank you for saying hello and watching the channel.

[@gmun8818]

Next time try centennial trail. It's much nicer and runs parallel to I 90 from cda to spokane✌

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Not sure how I ended up on I-90 except that its actually super friendly to ride most anywhere else. I was also in a bit of a time crunch needing to get back home and didn't want to extend my reaching the coast. Thanks for watching and information.

[@hivefleethappiness7331]

Bra....that was painful to watch. The Centennial trail connects Coeur d'Alene to Spokane without dealing with any trafic. It's lazily follows the shore of the Spokane River for 60 miles, and it's some of the easiest and most beautiful riding ever. You where literally inches away from it at one point of your video 9:40, on the other side of that fense. I would of also taken the rail-trail, Called trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, from forth of July pass to lake Coeur d'Alene. It separates from the freeway and guides you through isolated forests. It even takes you OVER the entire lake using an old logging treassel, You could have made that entire journey without dealing with any traffic whatsoever, except for the section connecting the two trails together. Spokane and Coeur d'Alene have some excellent biking infrastructure and some fantastic trails. I recommend using the Komoot app on your phone to plan routes and discover local trails. Safe travels brother.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Thanks for the input. I've received lots of comments on this episode about how I could have taken the Centennial Trail. I love that you have brought the different route option helping whoever reads this know there are other options. Total miss on my part but I was having a blast and I guess I was caught up on ridding that shoulder. Fun times. I know it seems weird to a lot of cyclists, but not all, but I really enjoy ridding freeways. Well, maybe that Spokane section was a bit much. Thank you so much for checking out my channel. Hope you stick around. Safe travels to you too.

[@simpletruth5224]

Wouldn’t it have been easier, faster, and safer to go on the off ramp and then back on the on ramp? That way you wouldn’t have to cross traffic going 70 mph.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

This is true and you will see me doing that sometimes if the traffic is too much. I always stop and watch and see if a legit window is there. The dangerous one is the off ramp because they are coming off the highway at high speeds. The on ramp has a traffic light that offers waves of oncoming vehicles. There is always a gap there. If it looks like too much I do ride up the ramp and wait at the light. You are correct. Thanks for bringing this up. I always hope people read these comments and get information out of them.

[@jackfarris7056]

😂 just after you got done complaining about shoulder trash I witnessed you tossing a banana peel or some other trash into the ditch. Even if you feel it is biodegradable check it out and pack it to the can.

[@MarcMallary]

I guess you have a rear view mirror.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Yes I do, my best friend.

[@rdkuless]

Tell the police that the cyclist has right of way in washington. Idaho, oregon and most states.. The law says you have every right to take an entire lane if there is debris in the bike lane.. You should have asked him why he was not keeping the debris out of the shoulder that was causing a road hazard..? There is no bike lane so that means you have right of way.. He was just being a ignorant ass...and he knew it.."ignorance is no excuse" especially when you are law enforcement. maybe he was hoping to get lucky with a cute cyclist..? he look like he had a lot of pride.. LOL

[@user-kx7wo6qc7d]

I just wonder if you always decide to stay on this highways or you could go more often on the backroads. As a watcher, i am concerned about your safety and it seems dangerous. Stay safe man

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Thanks you for your concern. I enjoy all kinds of roads and at times I deal with more traffic then I would like. On this occasion I had been on the freeway for several days without much traffic, a huge shoulder, and incredible scenery getting thru western Montana. I also enjoy climbing about as much as descending so when I see a pass ahead I always take it. On this tour I needed to get home to care for mat father so I was also in a bit of hurry to get to the west coast and complete the crossing. If you read the other comments on this episode you will learn of how many of my viewers have brought up this concern. I really appreciate you caring for my safety and hope you continue to keep me in check. Thanks for watching.

[@ankhatum]

The cop is wrong. You are a vehicle and allowed to be in the lane. He looks new so he probably has no idea.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Thanks for your comment. Yes, I think you are right and I will always keep taking the whole lane if needed. The law does state that you are a vehicle and that you may use the whole lane as long as you are going the same relative speed of traffic which I was not on this instance. It does also state that you may use the lane if you are avoiding hazards or unsafe conditions which I was. So I would agree with you as I was avoiding a terribly dirty shoulder. Either way it was cool to chat it up with the trooper. I'll be pulled over again I'm sure.

[@supabakezoid5643]

@@FlyscoutRyder The trooper was right. There is a minimum speed limit of 40 or 45mph on interstates. If you can do 40+ you have the right to use the lane. Although it would be a death wish on a bicycle. Some states it's illegal to be on the interstate and posted on the on ramps. That all depends upon the state. Here in Iowa it's illegal and you would get stopped and escorted off, possibly a fine. And yes, you can use the lane to avoid hazards, but again you must not impede traffic and maintain 40+ mph. Rural highways are much different partially because of farm implement use and even some of them have minimums. It's usually posted. Actually the trooper was ...legit....the encounter could have been quite the opposite

[@friarrodneyburnap4336]

Brother your life is worth more then going slow...you only have to be hit by a car once to be die. . .

[@FlyscoutRyder]

True. life is terribly fragile. I agree

[@princepage632]

dude i like your vids , but you told me you did not have a check coming in. so how do you afford to bike across the us getting motel rooms. i mean don't blame you for getting them. its just a guess, but if i was to bike across the us. it would take around 5 k to just skim by. i mean , just one room a week at say a bill for every room. 4 weeks in a month, and just say 5 months out 2, 000 thousand just motels, now comes camping fees at 20 a night. 120 a week on camping fees x 20 weeks, 2,400 doalls, then there's the food , say on the ave. 75 dollars a week x 20 1,500 on food. now i am already over my budget it comes to about 6 grand. man i would need about 10 grand to do this comfortably. i mean how much did you save before you left, be honest.

[@FlyscoutRyder]

Thanks for liking my episodes and for this comment. Makes me want to do an episode explaining the financial side of touring across the US. Again, I don't get a check from anyone. I work very hard during the late winter, spring and early summer without spending any more then I have to so I can save to do adventures like I do. I've been at this traveling a while just not bicycle touring. The other angle is that Im investing in this channel with hopes that someday it will give these expenses or part of them back to me. It does cost money the way I do it but I have time constraints because of work so I have to ride long daily distances and I also edit at night and for days which needs a place to plug my lap top into. Very challenging to create content on the go. Thankfully I have friends I've stayed with to do this at times. I also am working on maintaining weight down and my filming equipment is a big part of it so I don't carry that many batteries and I film a lot so need a place to recharge. There is a lot to this question you ask but the short of it is that Im self funded except for the small amount Im making from YT ($50/month) so far and about the same from my 6 Patreons. Its a lot cheaper to cross the country if you have more time to find that free camp spot ahead of you, if you don't have to get back to work, and if you don't have a pipe dream KZbin channel. Also, food is not really an expense because you have to eat wherever you are and hotels are not the biggest expense. The biggest expense is not working for over three months and not having that income. Thanks again for your comment. I need to tackle this one in an episode someday.