Fin MaddenTouring on a Brompton + Tips for Cycling in Switzerland

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I've had the chance to connect with Chris Mahoney, President of Go RVing Canada, a not for profit focused on promoting the RV lifestyle. After an initial discussion, we thought this could be a really interesting podcast, as both the bikepacking and RVing lifestyles are centred around exploration and spending time in nature. Through our discussion, I learned that Chris is a long-time mountain biker that likes to bring his bikes along when going RVing in the summers. He's also a keen bike adventurer and we spent a bit of time talking about some of his past and upcoming bike adventures. More specifically, throughout this conversation, Chris and I spoke about how RVs can be a great catalyst for bikepacking adventures, some amazing bicycle destinations accessible by RV, the benefits to taking up the RV lifestyle, what some common misconceptions about RVing are, and of course, affordability and how they compare to other types of holidays. We also talked about the rise in popularity of the camper van and how more and more young people are attracted to the RV lifestyle, particularly with more and more people choosing jobs that allow them to work remotely. I hope you enjoy this 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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind them at:Website: Go RVing CanadaInstagram: Go RVing CanadaFacebook: Go RVing CanadaYouTube: Go RVing Canada - You Are Out ThereFind 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

5 Mai 54min

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I dive into all things Canadian Shield Bikepacking Summit. We talk about the events taking place throughout the weekend, the amazing presenters sharing their knowledge with us, how and why we've integrated workshops into the format, and of course, details on all the amazing sponsors and prizes that are up for grabs. Be sure to check out the website:SummitGrand DepartIf you want to get tickets, you can follow this link:2025 Canadian Shield Bikepacking SummitTo 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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind 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. Tailfin Cycling --> Tailfin Cycling is a technical bikepacking equipment company that really thinks outside the box when creating new bikepacking gear. They create long-lasting products that have been testing in every way imaginable.<a...

27 Apr 27min

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I have the chance to talk with Chris Smith, better known as the Blind Guy Biking on Instagram. Chris has defied the odds on many occasions throughout his life. While Stargardt’s Disease is an inherited genetic condition that causes central vision loss, it usually occurs during childhood, resulting in total vision loss. Chris was fortunate, in the sense that it came about in his 20s, leaving him peripheral vision, and the ability to do some pretty amazing things. He also had the chance to experience growing up as a normally sighted person, allowing him to develop a love of cycling.Throughout the episode, we discuss his background growing up in Connecticut, his journey through vision loss due to Stargardt's Disease in his early twenties, and how he rediscovered biking as a mode of transportation and passion. Chris shares his experiences from the Tour Divide, a 2745 mile or 4418km backcountry ride from Banff, Canada to the USA/Mexican border, where he faced unique challenges, such as navigating, resupplying, and tackling rugged terrain. He also talks about the immense support from friends, family, and the cycling community, which was crucial for his success. Chris' story highlights how he turned a daunting journey into a successful fundraiser, raising over $30,000 for the Foundation Fighting Blindness. We delve deep into his remarkable resilience, the camaraderie formed on the trail, and insights into overcoming adversity. In completing this challenge, Chris is one of only a very small group of people that have ridden this route legally blind.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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind them at:Instagram: Blind Guy BikingFacebook: Chris SmithWebsite: Blind Guy Biking – Chris Smith: Racing for a CureYouTube: Legally Blind and Racing the Tour DivideFind me at…WEBSITEYOUTUBEFACEBOOKINSTAGRAM<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bikepack-adventures-podcast/id1464406852" rel="noopener...

9 Apr 1h 20min

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I have Meaghan Hackinen back on the podcast for her 4th time. In this episode we dive into her recent women's 2nd place finish at the Atlas Mountain Race. We discussed her preparations for the event and how challenging it can be to do a major race in the middle of winter, her new Cutthroat and getting it race ready, what she got up to before and after the event, as well as the race itself. As usual, it's a pleasure to get to chat with Meaghan and I hope you enjoy our conversation.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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind them at:Instagram: Meaghan HackinenFacebook: Meaghan HackinenWebsite: Meaghan Hackinen – Writer, cyclist & adventure seekerFind 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. Tailfin Cycling --> Tailfin Cycling is a technical bikepacking equipment company that really thinks outside the box when creating new bikepacking gear....

27 Mar 1h 3min

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, I share with you a Ridecast on my recent Wendigo Fatbike Ultra event participation. This was the 10th year of the event and quite a special year to participate in such an event. As an added bonus, I invited the organizer, Cameron Dube, to come on the podcast to start us off and share about the creation of the event and its history.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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind 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. Tailfin Cycling --> Tailfin Cycling is a technical bikepacking equipment company that really thinks outside the box when creating new bikepacking gear. They create long-lasting products that have been testing in every way imaginable.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.Full Cycle Ottawa --> Full Cycle has been a staple in the...

13 Mar 40min

In this episode of the Bikepacking Adventures Podcast, I'm happy to have Doug Dunlop back on the show to record an Unpacking Bikepacking episode on all things winter biking. Doug runs a fantastic website called coldbike.com, where he blogs and reviews tons of winter biking related gear, constantly working to improve his skills with all things regarding winter fatbiking and winter camping. He's a plethora of knowledge, so, it was a no-brainer to invite him on the show again when I got the idea of recording a Winter Biking episode. Just after recording, I received an email from a listener asking a really good question that I knew we hadn't talked about, so Doug and I recorded a short segment to add to the end of the episode. Sorry it's such a long episode, but if you are interested in winter biking and potentially winter camping, this is the perfect episode to get you out there.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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind them at:Instagram: @coldbikeFacebook: ColdbikeYouTube: Coldbike - YouTubeWebsite: Coldbike.comFind 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...

27 Feb 2h 52min

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, Nathan Starzynski is back on the podcast. Nathan, who once cycled across Canada and was on the podcast in Episode 153, now shares his journey of biking across Eurasia. Over two years and a distance of 41,500 kilometers, Nathan rode from Portugal to Japan, capturing stunning videos and recounting a variety of experiences. These include battling through sandstorms in Kazakhstan, navigating precarious tunnels in Tajikistan, and reveling in the unique cultures and landscapes of each country. Nathan discusses his strategies for managing video footage, including sending hard drives home, and the challenges of resuming a 'normal' life post-journey. He provides an insightful look into long-distance bike touring, travel logistics, cultural encounters, and the art of adventure videography.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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind them at:Instagram: Nathan StarzynskiFacebook: Nathan StarzynskiYouTube: Nathan StarzynskiWebsite: Nathan Starzynski MediaFind 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...

18 Feb 2h 19min

In this episode of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast, Jacob shares his extraordinary journey of biking around the world. Starting from Denver and trekking through various terrains and countries, he details his experiences, challenges, and the remarkable people he met along the way. Jacob discusses his transition from an aerospace engineer to an adventurer, camping in the most unusual places and confronting nature's extremes. He speaks about his encounters with different cultures, from Russia to South America, and the lessons learned on endurance and solitude. Post-adventure, Jacob's life took a turn towards creativity, leading him to build artistic ant farms and more recently, to guide e-bike tours in Colorado. He's also created a podcast called, "How to Move the Stars", a day-by-day retelling of his bicycle ride twice around the world. He emphasizes how the journey changed his worldview and his approach to life's challenges, offering insights that go beyond just the physical feat of cycling across the globe.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 ClubUse these affiliate links to help cover the costs of running the show.Redshift SportsPanorama CyclesFind them at:Instagram: How To Move The StarsYouTube: How To Move The StarsFind 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

2 Feb 1h 26min