How do the logistics of the tour work each day? Each morning around 6:00 am, riders begin to stir and start breaking down their tents and packing everything into their cubbies in the support vehicle. Often there is a small line to get into the one restroom available at most campsites. Cyclists will also change into their biking outfits for the day. Breakfast is another important task for the morning. If no restaurant is available, some folks break out their portable stoves and heat coffee or oatmeal. The first group of riders will often get on the road by 7:00 am. Over the next hour, small groups will gradually start riding. Shortly after 8:00 am, the support vehicle hits the road after everything is packed.
While riding along following their map, riders often see the support vehicle pass them. The support vehicle will often find a nice stopping point roughly every 20-25 miles. It may be at a country store, gas station, or delicacy such as Dairy Queen. After a half hour break of socializing, filling water bottles, and snacking, the riders hit the road again. This process continues throughout the day until we stop at our final destination. The route leaders will place BUS4MS signs along the road to direct cyclists to breaks or the night’s stop. Most nights we stop at churches, fire stations, town parks, or campgrounds. Many are designated by the town as campsites friendly to TransAm cyclists. Arrival time is usually between 2 and 5 pm.
(part of our tent city set up in Breaks Interstate Park)We start the evening by setting up our tent and sleeping bag while still sweaty. If there are restaurant facilities in town many riders will take advantage and skip out on cooking. Otherwise, most cyclsist will start their dinner. Riders will also take advantage of showers, if available, and begin rinsing their cycling clothing to use the late afternoon sun for drying. Most riders are in bed by 10:00 pm.
(view from inside my tent)
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