United Bicycle Institute

One of the first things I did to prepare for this journey was to commit to learning more about my bicycle. I've had my custom Vanilla Bicycle for over ten years at this point, but wanted to know more about how to maintain it (I'm not super great at that) and obviously fix it when possible. A clearer understanding of how the systems work and reasoning behind why certain parts/components are on my bicycle in particular would be helpful. The 40 hour Introduction to Bicycle Maintenance course was held in Portland February 4-8. You can find out more information here. ​There were 17 students, half of whom traveled from all over the US to take this course.  Among the participants were retirees who spend a lot of time bike-touring and want to know more than how to fix a flat tire, aspiring bike mechanics, current bike mechanics, people who ride a lot and want to gain the knowledge and skills to work on their own bikes and adults running bike programs for youth. It was a fabulous mix of people and I fully enjoyed working with my bike-stand-partner, Phil originally from Tasmania and heading back there from Vancouver, BC with his wife to be much closer to family!

The trainers were not just knowledgeable bike geeks, but made working on bikes fun and created an environment that was safe to learn and ask questions. Here was our workshop agenda, 8-5 each day:​

Day 1: Wheels, hubs, tires and tubes​

Day 2: Pedals, cranksets and bottom brackets​

Day 3: Derailleurs​

Day 4: Rim brakes and disc brakes​

Day 5: Headsets, handlebars and stems​

There was much more to what I just listed... we spent an hour talking about the geometry of bikes and how to best fit a bicycle. We spent time talking about cleaning and maintenance schedules, different types of brakes, seats, bike shoes, etc. It was just fabulous!  I feel much more confident adjusting and working on my bike. Hoping I won't need to use many hardcore skills I learned on my upcoming trip, but at least if I need to, I'm more well-equipped!

The UBI Classroom

You know, orange finger nails and bike grease? Sexy!​

Setting everything out so I put it back together the way it should be!​

October- Present

In October, as my crazy dream of 23 years started to become something I could feasibly do this summer, I started to plan. I'm an expert at planning. I love making lists and drawing diagrams and creating goals. So, the first thing I did was make a commitment. I registered for a forty hour bicycle maintenance course hosted by United Bicycles Institute www.bikeschool.com. I'll write more about that course since I have since taken it (AWESOME!), however, it held me accountable to at least learning more about how to take care of my bike which I ride often, but neglect maintaining it even more so.

I did not really fully commit to this trip until February 13, 2013, after a meeting with my financial advisor. I needed his confidence in my finances to allow me to say, "I can do this."

These people I consider my advisors. They are truly the foundation that enables me to fulfill this dream. Of course, I have family, friends, colleagues that are providing the emotional support- you will be mentioned at another time.

Koko Hunt: My financial advisor, who rocks.

MJ Petroni: My business coach for six year now, who I now consider a close friend. My business is as successful as it is because he has been a part of my advising team.

Judy Johnson: My accountant who alongside Koko, advises me personally and professionally on many fiscal decisions.

Aaron Simpson: My personal trainer of two years who patiently puts up with my crazy nomadic work travel schedule. He holds me accountable for working out and my training for this trip. My lowered risk of injury and the benefits of strength and endurance are a result of his guidance and support.

Lisa Miller: My awesome therapist who has been a great support the past couple of years!

Julie R: A friend who is charging me a minimal amount to move in with her to save money on rent.