Eastbound Intro

The idea was always there that I would ride from Jamestown New York to the East coast. This would mean I would cross the entire country, the entire continent using my own power. I looked up possible end sites. I decided that somewhere along the Connecticut coast line would fit my needs well. In addition to I never being in Connecticut, it was the shortest distance to coastline at roughly 450 miles. It was also close enough to Jamestown that I knew I could convince someone to pick me up along the Atlantic coast.

My gear prior to being packed

I ordered NYS bike route 17 maps. They are free from New York State Department of Transportation. The map would prove very helpful along my journey across the state. 

I set the dates for my trip and requested the time off of work. I would leave 2 years and 1 day after leaving for my original trip. 

June 16 rolled around quickly. I was not physically or mentally prepared, but I was willing to jump right in anyway. I made sure Upstate was ready though. He was tuned up and fitted with new grips and tires. I set up (with some difficulty) the front racks and panniers. I also gathered my gear and aired out my tent and sleeping bag. I was as ready as I could be.

My gear all paced up ready to load on to the bike

I packed up all my gear and caught a ride from home in Pittsburgh to Jamestown the night before I left. I got into Jamestown late and crashed out late at a friends.