THE GRAND SWEEPING CONCLUSION: I Always Post A Grand Sweeping Conclusion Even If It's Neither Grand Nor Sweeping

Well, that sure wasn't a very lengthy, scenic, or adventurous bike trip was it? And my effort to debunk a single internet article seemed like a pretty lame reason for a bike tour didn't it? That's alright though, because I enjoyed the peaceful beauty of the Iowa landscape and I had my usual amount of fun. I can do that no matter where I ride. And most importantly, I survived some of the most dangerous cycling cities in the U.S. and exposed that article as complete and utter bullshit. Mission accomplished!

As to the short duration of my trip, I felt okay with it. I admire people who can conduct bike tours that last several months or several years, but I've always felt more comfortable in the 4-8 week range. Lately, I've found I like the 1-3 week tours as well. They're all good.

I'm also finding I like 40-50 mile days better than anything too much longer. Yes, I'll still ride 70 miles if I have to, but it isn't as much fun as it used to be. I like to mix things up with hiking, animal watching, exploring, eating, journal writing, just hanging out in camp or a motel room, and other non-biking activities.

One thing that hasn't changed is that I still like traveling alone. I like the freedom. I like the self-reliance.

"A man alone ain't got no bloody fucking chance." -Ernest Hemingway

"A man alone ain't got to answer to nobody on his bloody bike tour." -Gregory S. Garceau

"A cartoon alter-ego alone is the coolest bloody bad ass on earth." -G-2

There is something else I like about Iowa that goes beyond the agricultural land, the farm animals, the storms, the quiet roads, the courteous drivers, the friendly citizens, and the non-dangerous towns and cities. I think that extra something special is best expressed in the sentiment of the following words:

"I am proud to have been born in Iowa. Through the eyes of a ten-year-old boy, it was a place of adventure and daily discoveries--the wonder of growing crops, the excitement of the harvest, the journeys to the woods for nuts and hunting, the joys of snowy winters, the comfort of the family fireside, of good food and tender care." -President Herbert Hoover

In conclusion, give Iowa a try. You won't regret it.

For anyone who might feel the urge to conduct a 9-day loop tour to four of the ten most dangerous cycling cities, beginning and ending in Oelwein, IA, this is by far the most definitive published route in existence.

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