Leading | Pack

The idea

In late summer 2001 we decided to bike across the States from coast to coast.The idea of emptying water from the Pacific into the Atlantic was born.

The planning

Especially the female stoker had hoped to travel with an accompanying vehicle to be able to transport more luggage. But soon we had to forget about taking part in an officially organised trip. There was no travel group available during April 2002 for 6 weeks in a row. 6 weeks because we couldn't stand to stay away any longer from our son. It became obvious that the trip should take place in the south of the States because the weather would be nice enough in spring. For wind reasons we chose to travel from the Pacific to the Atlantic. In the internet we found phantastic maps by the adventure cycling association showing a route from San Diego,CA to St. Augustine,FL. We bike on a tandem which we had to buy and test first.

The goals

  • Exercise and work out of all relevant body parts till the beginning of the trip. Stoker: 2000km, Captain: 4000km.


  • Staying overnight: We both don't like camping and rather sleep in a comfortable bed and prefer a warm shower. That's why we had to choose the route accordingly. (Meaning we have to bike extremely far for one day for a hotel).


  • distances: enjoy the ride, therefore we have to bike an average of 150km per day to reach our goal in the set time span. (A total of 5000km in 6 weeks). We get one day off per week.


  • No flakes: we don't flake out unless there is a very good reason (illness, accident etc.)


  • 2 are one too many??: Usually trips like this one require lots of physical and mental endurance. We swear to discuss upcoming conflicts in a calm manner as usual (...) and take the same direction the next day.


Interested to read how we managed ?