Bikepacking - 20 Lessons I've learned from the trail

In no particular order....

1.  Beef Jerky in trail mix isn't an awesome idea

2. Don't ride with someone who would rather be on a conference call

3. Make Friends.  Lots and lots of friends

4.  Don't sleep in wet or damp bike shorts

5. Even if you are racing, take the time to see, touch, listen, smell, and feel.  The world is an incredible place and we are lucky to be out there.

6. Every mile you push and suffer through now is one you won't have to struggle with later. 

7. The sun will rise and the sun will set.

8. When you feel discouraged with the length of the race or your tour, try to focus on the day.  When the distance of the day seems impossible, focus on the next town.  When the next town seems too far away, only think about the mile ahead.  If that mile is creating pain and misery, focus on your next pedal rotation.  If that fails, take a look around, realize how lucky you are and pay attention to each breath you take.  Every breath, every pedal stroke, every mile, every town, every day are all equal parts of the whole.  Keep moving, if only one breath at a time.

9.  I quite strongly dislike New Mexico's sheep dogs, or stray dogs for that matter

10.  Lower your tire pressure before taking on the sandy rail trails.  Yes Idaho, I am talking to you.

11.  Teenagers in Helena don't take kindly to men in spandex

12. Pack light whether you are racing or touring, the lighter the better.

13.  Mike Hall may not really be human.

14.  Wherever you are riding, leave the route better than how you found it. 

15.  You will need chain links and extra shoe screws, derailleur hanger, tire repair items, a scaled    down first aid kit, a Leatherman, and Sour Patch Kids

16.  Duct tape can hold parts of your frame together

17. Age, gender, sexual orientation, race, occupation, religion, marital status, income level, educational background DO NOT MATTER when your riding bikes together, sharing stories and loving the journey. It's pretty awesome when you share a passion with people you may not otherwise have had the chance to meet.

18.  Payphones don't exist anymore so bring a cell phone.  Just try to avoid certain phone providers that have terrible coverage.  Not to mention names but  if your phone company rhymes with
T-Smobile find another company.  I have a phone for sale if anyone is interested.

19.  Bikepacking becomes part of your DNA

20.  Limits only define where you have been, not how far you can go. 

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