Bike ride to florida from chicago? - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

hotshotsoccerguy · 01-09-2008, 08:39 PM

Ok me an two of my friends are planning on riding our bikes to florida in 10 days. Our goal is 10mph for 10 hours a day. I consider us to be average riders, our conditioning is very good, we run , and are very active. i know that 10mph is slow, but thats just what we would like to average. On the flat roads i know we can average at least 16-18mph easy if not more, but what can we expect to average in the mountains, and if we have a head wind. What problems can we expect along the way? How long do you think it would take you? Is it possible to make it in 10 days?

Drunk Galactus · 01-09-2008, 08:40 PM

you should be able to make that no problem if you stay on your pace. probably with a day, day and a half to spare. i'm not sure what mountains you'll run into, there aren't any between here and florida...not in your path at least.

mario jr. p · 01-09-2008, 08:40 PM

i think not and you are crazy

McG · 01-09-2008, 08:40 PM

Head wind should be rare, cross winds more a problem due to the prevailing winds.

You didn't state how many hours a day you can ride. You don't state what weight you will be carrying in packs on the bikes. Are you staying at hotels, hostels, or camping? You talk about your running condition not your bicycling condition - very different conditioning.

Crossing the mountains is daunting. I good riding friend went from Virginia to California this year and getting through VA was the hardest part of his route. One full day in a raging thunder storm going up a mountain -- he made 12 miles -- for the full day. He is one of the strongest touring riders I personally know.

Is it POSSIBLE to make it in 10 days -- yes, as your first time crossing the country -- NOT PROBABLE.

I would recommend a further flatter route - such as going from Chicago south following the Mississippi valley to the Gulf then east to Florida. Still won't do it in 10 days.

chitowndoorman · 01-09-2008, 08:41 PM

I Made It Driving From Downtown Chicago
Congress And Michigan To
North Miami Beach 163 And Collins Non Stop In 19hours
Gas And Restroom Stop Same Time.
Cold Cuts And Drinks On Board.
On Bikes Good Luck Passing Thru Those Crazy Towns.
Just Messing With Ya
Good Luck On Your Journey
Better Get Ready To Pedal Faster If You See Some Cr_ck Heads Or Gangs Along The Way. And Remember No Hitchhiking