Fin MaddenTouring on a Brompton + Tips for Cycling in Switzerland

Fin MaddenTouring on a Brompton + Tips for Cycling in Switzerland

In Episode 002 of the podcast, Fin shares his experiences cycling across Europe on a Brompton and tells us about some amazing cyclosportive events he's taken part in.

I first met Finn in 2015 when I took a teaching job in southern Sweden. Somebody heard I liked cycling and said “you should meet Finn, he’s also a crazy cyclist”. Needless to say, we got on really well, and although we lived 100km away from each other, we did manage to get together a few times throughout the year for some pretty epic road and mountain biking fun. Having done a bit of touring myself prior to this, Finn and I started sharing stories about our experiences travelling by bike.

I Googled, “can you ride 100km a day on a Brompton?”and the answer was yes.

When Finn told me he used a Brompton, a bike designed as a compact folding commuter bike, something that is traditionally tucked under a seat on a train, or thrown in the trunk of a car, and rode it through 11 European countries and 5400km over two months. The next year he did a bike and sailing trip from Sweden to Spain and back. And just like that, my world changed and I started looking at folding bikes as a possible method of touring. As an expat teacher, I wanted to find a way to tour during holidays, while not paying a small fortune for my bike each time I wanted to travel by plane. Three years later I ended up buying a Bike Friday New World Tourist. Had I not met Finn and had a chance to hear his stories, it definitely never would have happened.

I ended up doing four countries in one day… I did Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria and Germany. And had lunch in Germany.

While many people opt to use bicycles as a means of travel that is faster than walking, but slower than a car, for guys like Finn and I, cycling is a part of our lives, and, by extension, they become a central aspect of our travel experience. From the long epic adventure cycling and camping across thousands of kilometres, short getaways with a loved one, cycling can be adapted to fit into any tour. More importantly, a bicycle tour doesn’t have to start and end on the bike, but can adapted as necessary. Such was the case when Finn and his wife Elaine planned their cross-Sweden tour, but decided to change their plans when the hot (Swedish) weather became too much.

It was crazy, bailing on a bike tour in Sweden because of the heat.

Unlike most cyclists, Finn has challenged himself repeatedly by entering big cycling events in Sweden and Norway, and also doing the Everest Challenge two years in a row. From doing cycling events for the simple reason that that is what people do, riding in Norway in memory of a friend that passed away, to doing the Everest Challenge twice in order to raise money for people in need, Finn has shown to have the kind of grit and determination that many people only dream of. He even kind of knows when enough is enough and is not afraid to throw in the towel once the objective is achieved.

It started in the 50s. I was there for its 50th anniversary and there was like, 20 guys who had done every year. And these are guys, in their 80s, and, it’s incredible, but I didn’t really want to just keep doing the same race.

Dreaming about future tours is something that cyclists/bike tourists always have on their minds. Finn dreams to tour somewhere less travelled, a place that would challenge every aspect of his cycling skill, and to experience a remote adventure of nature and wilderness. However, this epic adventure will have to wait a few years, as he is about to have his first child and will be relegated to safer touring options with a Thule baby carriage attached to the back of his bike.

Cheers Finn. Keep on pedalling.

To support the Bike...

Jaksot(213)

2023: Rolling into the New Year

2023: Rolling into the New Year

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I take a look at the year 2023, and how things went for me on a personal level, with regard to the podcast and everything else.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind them at:Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Website: Find me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Restrap --> We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts. When we're not sewing, we're out and about putting our products through rigorous testing, getting ourselves and our stuff as wet, muddy and well-used as possible. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you covered. We strive to ensure that Brockton Cyclery is a safe and inclusive environment. RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing, cycling, skiing, running a marathon, or scuba diving in the Red Sea. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.<a...

31 Joulu 202343min

Chris Lee-Francis | Eastwards and Far

Chris Lee-Francis | Eastwards and Far

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures podcast, I have a chance to speak with Chris Lee-Francis. I first interviewed Chris nearly a year ago, but unfortunately, something went wrong with the audio and I was never able to release the episode. Fortunately, in the aftermath of the failed episode, Chris finished his travel memoir, Eastwards and Far and was gracious enough to send me a copy. Chris' story has a certain flow about it, one in which the experienced bike tourer easily relates to and the would be bike tourer can't help but be captivated by. I hope you enjoy this conversation about avoid sports, commuting to save money, and crossing the world's second largest country because they built a trail.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind them at:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/funkyhomme/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552371760129Find me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you covered. We strive to ensure that Brockton Cyclery is a safe and inclusive environment. RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing,...

15 Joulu 20231h 36min

Bikepacking Beyond Borders | Passport Japan

Bikepacking Beyond Borders | Passport Japan

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I dive into a new series that focusses on a specific country to share as many tips and tricks possible to make your adventure a success. In this first Bikepacking Beyond Borders episode, we take the listener to the Far East, into the land of the rising sun, Japan. Carl Presseault, my co-host for this episode has just recently come back from a one month trip cycling in various parts of Japan. Combined with my experience travelling throughout Japan over the past 11 years, I thought this would be the perfect country to start with. Hope you enjoy the episode.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind my co-host at:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fork_sauce/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carl.presseaultFind me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you covered. We strive to ensure that Brockton Cyclery is a safe and inclusive environment. RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing, cycling, skiing, running a marathon, or scuba diving in the Red Sea. Use...

21 Marras 20231h 35min

Ty Domin | Overlanding by Bike

Ty Domin | Overlanding by Bike

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures podcast, I have a chance to speak with Ty Domin. Ty first got on my radar while on his friend Lewis' podcast a couple years back. Since then, I've followed his adventures and now that he's in Western Canada, it seemed like the perfect time to have him come on the show and share his story.When it comes to biking, Ty has really run the gamut, racing everything from road to track to MTB and now Bikepacking. He's also an accomplished bike tourer, or as he would call it, overlander. In 2014, he embarked on a bike tour that lasted roughly 2 years, covering 30,000km and did it again this past year with his wife Chelsea, cycling from Scotland to Turkey and another 10,000km. We didn't dive too much into his bikepack racing and bag making brand Yah Naw Thread Works and will save that for another day. Hope you enjoy this great little convo with Ty.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind them at:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tydomin/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ty.dominWebsite: Find me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Restrap --> We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts. When we're not sewing, we're out and about putting our products through rigorous testing, getting ourselves and our stuff as wet, muddy and well-used as possible. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Brockton...

17 Marras 20231h 41min

Unpacking Bikepacking | Time Pedals, Baryak, Bike joring, Panorama Chic-Chocs review

Unpacking Bikepacking | Time Pedals, Baryak, Bike joring, Panorama Chic-Chocs review

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures podcast, I host my second Unpacking Bikepacking episode, where I dive into some of the gear I've been using. I talk about my time using Time pedals (no pun intended), the Baryak Expedition XL bars, and the Panorama Chic-Chocs carbon fatbike I've been using over the past year. Hope you enjoy.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Restrap --> We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts. When we're not sewing, we're out and about putting our products through rigorous testing, getting ourselves and our stuff as wet, muddy and well-used as possible. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you covered. We strive to ensure that Brockton Cyclery is a safe and inclusive environment. RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing, cycling, skiing, running a marathon, or scuba diving in the Red Sea. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Monton Sports...

12 Marras 202329min

Claire Pomykala | Living By Bike

Claire Pomykala | Living By Bike

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures podcast, I have a chance to speak with Claire Pomykala. When I first came across Claire's journey into bike touring, what really stood out for me is that it all happened so quickly. With her first tour quite literally straight out of college, to then embarking on a pretty epic journey across a big chunk of Europe, Claire has really dove headfirst into Bike Touring and its many facets.. After a stint of working the 9 to 5, Claire decided to drop it all and cycle across the USA and is now what she calls FUN-employed. Tune in to this episode to learn more about bike touring and Claire's upcoming adventures.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind them at:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingbybike/Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livingbybikeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTetAFUXiO5_DFiOdsNDzZQFind me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Restrap --> We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts. When we're not sewing, we're out and about putting our products through rigorous testing, getting ourselves and our stuff as wet, muddy and well-used as possible. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you...

25 Loka 20231h 26min

Unpacking Bikepacking | Reflections - Front Suspension - Cool Kit - Loop Handlebars - Lachlan Morten - Triumphs/Setbacks

Unpacking Bikepacking | Reflections - Front Suspension - Cool Kit - Loop Handlebars - Lachlan Morten - Triumphs/Setbacks

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures podcast, I am starting a new series called Unpacking Bikepacking. Throughout this monthly series, I will share more on my own personal journey with you, while also keeping you up to date with cool kit I learn about, as well as sharing the occasional thought/opinion on current issues within the bikepacking world.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures Club Find me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Restrap --> We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts. When we're not sewing, we're out and about putting our products through rigorous testing, getting ourselves and our stuff as wet, muddy and well-used as possible. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you covered. We strive to ensure that Brockton Cyclery is a safe and inclusive environment. RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing, cycling, skiing, running a marathon, or scuba diving in the Red Sea. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.<a href="https://montonsports.ca/"...

6 Loka 202332min

Ridecast | Canadian Shield 400

Ridecast | Canadian Shield 400

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I record a Ridecast taking the listener through my Grand Depart FKT on the Canadian Shield 400 bikepacking route. This route takes the rider through the Outaouais and the Lower Laurentian Mountains in Western Quebec. With approximately 6300 metres of elevation gain, this route is about as hard as it gets in the region for a 400km route. Mix in roughly 120km of trails and you've got yourself a magical experience.To support the Bike Tour Adventures podcast, follow the links below:https://www.patreon.com/bikepackadventures orhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bikepackadventures Join the RideWithGPS Bikepack Adventures ClubFind me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMITUNESShow SponsorsPanorama Cycles --> They believe that cycling is a catalyst for adventures, no matter how small they can be. No need to travel across the world or to be a seasoned athlete to live epic outdoors adventures. Redshift Sports --> Founded in 2013 by a team of mechanical engineers who also happen to be avid cyclists, they've focused on taking a different approach to product development - drawing on their own experiences and needs to create components that make a meaningful difference to the riding experience. Use code BPA15 to save 15% at checkout. Use the affiliate link and they will give Bikepack Adventures a little something in return.Restrap --> We're a team of outdoor enthusiasts. When we're not sewing, we're out and about putting our products through rigorous testing, getting ourselves and our stuff as wet, muddy and well-used as possible. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at checkout.Brockton Cyclery --> Brockton Cyclery is a full-service shop in Toronto's west end. We cater to cyclists of every stripe. Whether you're commuting to work or prepping for the Tour Divide, we've got you covered. We strive to ensure that Brockton Cyclery is a safe and inclusive environment. RaceDay Fuel --> RacedayFuel’s mission is to ensure that you consume the very best and appropriate food or beverage for the task at hand - whether you are golfing, cycling, skiing, running a marathon, or scuba diving in the Red Sea. Use the code BPA10 to save 10% at...

22 Syys 202332min

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