Lina shares her MS diagnosis story

MS Diagnosis Stories: Redefining Life at 23 – Lina Garada’s Journey

At the age of 23, when life’s script is supposed to be about exploration, adventure, and the dawn of adulthood, Bike the US for MS alumni, Lina Garada, faced an unexpected twist in her story – a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This MS diagnosis story traces Lina’s courageous journey from the first signs of MS to her advocacy and participation in the cycling community, highlighting the resilience and hope that define her path.

Lina's personal MS diagnosis story at just 23 years of age is inspiring.

Lina’s Early Life and Path to MS Diagnosis

Embracing the Unexpected: From Migraines to MS Diagnosis

Lina’s path to an MS diagnosis was as unexpected as it was challenging. A series of migraines, initially dismissed as minor nuisances during her triathlon swimming training, became the catalyst for a series of medical investigations. The journey from experiencing migraines to undergoing MRI scans revealed lesions consistent with multiple sclerosis—a reality far removed from anything Lina had anticipated. The complexity of understanding her diagnosis, coupled with the daunting process of navigating healthcare and insurance, painted the initial picture of a journey fraught with uncertainty.

Lina and friends enjoying the ferry back to Seattle on the Olympic Peninsula Bike Loop.

The Challenges of Early MS Diagnosis

Confronting a New Reality: Adjusting to Life with MS

The revelation of having MS at such a young age forced Lina to recalibrate her life’s expectations and ambitions. As is the case for many MS diagnosis stories, feelings of frustration, fear and denial crept in, largely stemming from a lack of knowledge about the disease. ‘How could I possibly be feeling fine and riding 15 miles, yet run the risk of losing feeling in my legs and collapsing at any moment?’

Overcoming Fears: From Wheelchairs to Bike Rides

Lina enjoying the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour with friends.

Lina’s initial reaction to her diagnosis—a fear of inevitable disability and a life confined to a wheelchair—reflects a common apprehension among those newly diagnosed with MS. However, her journey from those early fears to cycling two large segments of the TransAmerica route and then the full Pacific Coast bike route from Seattle to San Diego with Bike the US for MS in 2019 is nothing short of inspirational. This achievement not only challenged her physical limits, but also reshaped her perspective on what is possible with MS.

Navigating Life’s Hurdles: Treatment Costs and Workplace Dynamics

The Reality of Treatment: Navigating Healthcare and Insurance

As life with MS progressed, as did the treatment bill. Soaring upwards of $180,000 per year, Lina’s experience underscores the financial and logistical challenges of living with MS. The constant battle with insurance companies and the stress of ensuring new employment opportunities offer coverage for her essential medication highlight a reality many with MS face—underscoring the importance of healthcare access and financial support in managing the condition.

The Challenges of a chronic illness and employment

From navigating fatigue and neuro challenges to managing the unpredictability of symptoms, disclosing your MS to an employer can be daunting at best. Lina’s approach to date has focused on opening a dialogue about her condition, being honest with all and adding a touch of humor. As she puts it, any employer that has an issue with her living with MS is not an employer she wants to work for!

One of Lina’s most telling anecdotes involves a simple act of passing a document to her new boss, which became a moment of vulnerability and connection. Her hands, shaking visibly from her MS, led to a moment of confusion for her boss. Lina’s ability to address the situation with humor and grace showcased her approach to living with MS and put her colleagues at ease.

Lina and friends enjoying the ferry back to Seattle on the Olympic Peninsula Bike Loop.

Building Bridges: The Transformative Power of Community and Connection

Supportive Friends and New Beginnings

Central to Lina’s MS journey is the irreplaceable value of a supportive community. Her friends, understanding and accommodating of the unpredictability that MS brings into her life, exemplify the kind of support that makes all the difference. Whether it’s understanding the need for extra time with getting ready, unintentionally storing forgotten items of theirs, or gracefully laughing off an MS symptom, Lina’s circle of friends are the peace of mind she needs to help transform her frustrations into ordinary moments.

Having supportive friends around Lina has been a key part of her MS diagnosis story.

Connecting with MS Champions: The Impact of Don Fraser and the MS Community

Meeting Don Fraser, the founder of Bike the US for MS, was a pivotal moment in Lina’s journey. Through this connection, she was introduced to others living with MS, including a remarkable individual who competed in the Race Across America (RAAM). These encounters not only expanded her support network, but also illuminated the vast possibilities of life beyond an MS diagnosis.

Cycling with MS: A New Bike the US for MS Chapter

Despite MS, Lina’s passion for cycling remains undimmed. Adapting to heat and adjusting her pace has allowed her to continue riding, embracing cycling not just as a sport, but as a vital part of her identity and a way to challenge MS on her terms. Since joining the Bike the US for MS family as a supporter in 2017 and 2018 then as a cyclist on the 2019 TransAmerica and Pacific Coast bike routes, she has become a strong advocate for the organization.

She joined the board of directors to support Bike the US for MS’s goal of supporting those living with MS. Lina has since returned to ride in 2023 on the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour and we hope she will be out riding with us for many years to come!

Lina has made life long friends as part of Bike the US for MS.

The Nina Fraser Scholarship Fund: Encouraging Adventure in the MS Community

Lina’s MS story is interwoven with the Nina Fraser Scholarship Fund as a recipient of support in 2019. A Bike the US for MS initiative to allow individuals living with MS to pursue adventures that once seemed impossible. It’s aimed at fostering a sense of financial stability leading to greater achievement and empowerment. The fund was set up in memory of Don Fraser’s mother, Nina, who is the inspiration for Bike the US for MS.

Lina explains how cycling has helped her during her personal MS diagnosis story.
Lina making the most of an ice cream stop on the Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour.

A Life Full and Fulfilling

Lina Garada’s story is a powerful narrative for anyone navigating the early days of an MS diagnosis. Through her challenges and triumphs, Lina exemplifies that a diagnosis does not define one’s life. Her adventures, from the trials of understanding her condition to the triumph of cycling down the West Coast, underscore a vital message: life with MS can be full, rewarding, and replete with adventures yet to be had.

Lina’s journey reminds us of the importance of community, the power of resilience, and the endless capacity for reinvention. For those recently diagnosed with MS, Lina’s story is not just a tale of overcoming, but a roadmap for navigating life with grace, strength, and an unyielding spirit of adventure.

Do you have an MS diagnosis story you’d like to share? Or would you like to contact Lina about her journey? Contact us below and we will get in touch!

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Bike the US for MS Route Leaders enjoying a sunny day on the Pacific Coast Bike Route.

The Essential Role of Route Leaders in our MS Cycling Adventures

Alumni Tailwinds – February 2024 by Neil McCallum and Kelly Wolf

As we get closer to kicking off the 2024 season, we wanted to celebrate our unsung heros of Bike the US for MS – our Route Leaders. Without your unwavering support over the years, we simply wouldn’t have been able to run 16 years of successful bike rides for MS.

We thought we’d ask you, our alumni, to share stories and insights about the joys of route leading. It is truly a life changing experience and another way for you to show your support for Bike the US for MS and the cause. 

Do you have a favorite Route Leader you want to thank, particular memories from the road about your Route Leaders or have stories of your own as a Route Leader you want to share? Add you comments below!

Kaylyn Proctor (formerly Messenger) – 2015 Northern Tier & 2023 Olympic Peninsula

Route Leader – 2016 TransAmerica, 2017 Northern Tier, Pacific Coast & Southern Tier.

Route leading is such a unique experience. I remember riding into Seattle to dip my tires when I finished my Northern Tier ride. I was so overwhelmed with emotion and pride. As a Route Leader, having the opportunity to see your team experience that moment for themselves is so special and rewarding in its own way. Knowing you played a part in helping people complete a life-changing challenge is so rewarding. It kept me coming back!

Kaylyn, one of the Route Leaders on the TransAmerica in 2016, celebrating with her team having biked across America.
Kaylyn (center right) celebrating with her team having biked across America.

Dale Johnson – 2010 TransAmerica, 2017 Southern Tier, 2022 Atlantic Coast

Route Leader – 2012 TransAmerica

Here are some positive thoughts I had on being a Route Leader:

  1. The best part of the Route Leader role is you get to share with others the joy and fun you had on your previous adventure.
  2. If you like helping and being kind to others, Route Leader is a great role.
  3. I loved again spending those weeks of living a simple life.

My most positive aspect of the 2012 TransAm ride:

  1. Here was my biggest accomplishment in 2012. You probably know the story. Like in 2010, we had a few tag-along riders….solo self supported cyclists carrying their own gear. I encouraged them to stop at our stops for water and said it was no problem if they stayed with us at campgrounds and churches.

    However, there were a couple of our riders who wanted me to kick them off. They weren’t raising any money was the main issue. They were costing Bike the US for MS nothing. Several were visitors to the US, and to me it was just being friendly and nice. I refused to stop helping the self supported riders.

    Our tag-along riders ended up donating and even came back as leaders the following year. One of the riders the folks wanted to kick off in 2012 was James Whateley, now Executive Director of Bike the US for MS and Bike the UK for MS. You talk about a fork in the road from a simple act of kindness.
  2. Don Fraser said that the TranAmerica 2011 was totally disorganized. He wanted me to make sure 2012 was more organized. My wife, Christine, and I put two pages of notes together for each day, in advance. Those 60 days in 2012 were flawless as far as the stops, the accommodations, etc. Of course all that went unnoticed because things ran so smoothly, which was the goal!

Things to be aware of:

  1. One of the most difficult aspects of route leading is problems that can arise that you could never have anticipated.
  2. One of the dangers is that returning as a Route Leader will not be the same experience as a rider. This does not mean it’s a bad experience! Simply that the added responsibility of Route Leading will change how you go about the ride.
Dale finishing up his 2010 TransAmerica Cross Country ride in San Francisco.
Dale finishing up his 2010 TransAmerica ride in San Francisco.

Ted Yates – 2017 Southern Tier, 2018 Bike the UK for MS, 2019 Northern Tier & Pacific Coast, 2022 Atlantic Coast & Northern Tier

Route Leader – 2023 & 2024 GAP & C&O Trail

When you experience something amazing and extremely worthwhile you want to share it and contribute to it. Riding with Bike the US for MS around America is that experience. After logging over 11,000 miles with BTUSFMS I felt like part of a cycling family and wanted to contribute my time and experience with other riders so I volunteered to become a Route Leader.

That was a great decision. Being a Route Leader gave me a much greater appreciation for the organization and the important duties of the route leaders. I learned so much from the route leaders that had guided me and I enjoyed sharing that knowledge with new riders.

Ted (front center in yellow) is one of our local Route Leaders on the GAP & C&O in 2024.
Ted (front center in yellow) is one of our local Route Leaders on the GAP & C&O in 2024.

Kelly Wolf – 2017 & 2019 Pacific Coast

Route Leader – 2017 Southern Tier, 2018 TransAmerica & Southern Tier, 2019 Atlantic Coast, Northern Tier & Southern Tier.

I was lucky enough to start route leading the Southern Tier right after completing my first ride. The transition from cyclist to Route Leader was an eye awakening experience. I hadn’t realized all the things the Route Leaders were responsible for; arranging accommodations and service projects, choosing locations for rest stops and calculating daily milage.

I immediately realized how amazing my route leader team had worked together to keep my Pacific Coast ride running smoothly. The first major situation I delt with as a Route Leader was realizing that due to a miscalculation in the mileage, one of our days was 120 miles! We had to scramble to adjust our overnight stops and were grateful we started calculating mileage a week in advance.

Route leading has been an amazing experience to not only assist people through the ups and downs of a cross country ride, but also watch how they grow to become skilled and confident cyclists. It has also given me the confidence that I can deal with any problem thrown at me no matter where I am. I never thought I’d have to help cyclists with things like dehydration, a cracked tooth, broken bones, dog encounters, stollen bikes and then throw in a hurricane, a tornado, and a van accident.

I truly feel like I experienced it all! It is such a wonderful opportunity to be a route leader and get to experience the ride from a whole different perspective.

Kelly, one our many amazing Route Leaders, enjoying meeting up with the 2023 GAP & C&O team.
Kelly (center right), one our many amazing Route Leaders, enjoying meeting up with the 2023 GAP & C&O team.

Larry (Sully) Sullivan – 2016 TransAmerica, 2019 Segments, 2023 GAP & C&O Trail, 2024 Florida Coast & Olympic Peninsula

Route Leader – 2017 & 2018 Pacific Coast and 2018 Southern Tier

Riding my bicycle across the nation was a life altering event for me. I wish I had had the option to do it in my youth! It has been my pleasure to lead the Pacific coast tour 2 years in a row. Being able to ride with the riders and support them during their journeys. Often times one act of kindness by you means the whole trip to a rider. Being their leader, guide, supporter, confidant, and friend makes each and every trip special. The friends you make on the ride will be with you for life!

Sully (right) has been riding and one of Bike the US for MS' route leaders since 2016 and is back for more as a rider on the Florida Coast in March and Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour this summer.
Sully (right) has been riding and Route Leading with Bike the US for MS since 2016 and is back for more as a rider on the Florida Coast in March and Olympic Peninsula Bike Tour this summer.

Neil McCallum – 2015 Northern Tier, 2017 Pacific Coast, 2019 Atlantic Coast

Route Leader – 2022 TransAmerica, 2024 North Lakes Bike Route

As a ride leader, the memories of all of the wonderful people that we interacted with comes to mind. Working with our “Legacy” hosts, those that have been there year after year for us is the most gratifying. Driving into a new town and being greeted like old friends is very memorable.

It is so great to represent an organization and dedicated riders so respected for their efforts to help those living with MS. A special memory is being able to hear the MS stories and then be able to provide funds to ease the burden. A very special time.

Neil (back row, second from right) will be back Route Leading the inaugural North Lakes ride this summer.
Neil (back row, second from right) will be back Route Leading the inaugural North Lakes ride this summer.

Greenbrair Braag – 2018 TransAmerica

Route Leader – 2019 Southern Tier

There is a special satisfaction and challenge in helping a group of cyclists get from one coast to the other. Cycling a big ride for charity is meaningful and impactful, and helping those in need with MS is a great thing. Leading a team of cyclists across the country is ten times as rewarding.

You have to keep them on the route and figure out where the group stays and what service projects the group performs. But you also get to meet and interact with more people as route leaders—the hosts you stay with, the families you help, the communities you visit, and the entire cycling team. You get to experience new places, people, and challenges. It’s fun and exciting, and all for a great cause.

You have to have answers for the cycling team, and you need to be able to help them. All the riders couldn’t make it to the end without you, and knowing that you got them across the country is gratifying and empowering. You will have fun, you will be uncomfortable, and there will always be something you don’t expect. That’s what makes being a Route Leader worth doing.

Greenbrair Braag riding the 2018 TransAmerica route.
Greenbrair Braag riding the 2018 TransAmerica route.

Interested in becoming a Route Leader in 2024? Submit your interest today!

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Ocean views for miles around whilst cycling the Pacific Coast.

Your Complete Guide to Cycling the Pacific Coast

Embarking on a journey along the Pacific Coast Bike Route is an adventure of a lifetime, stretching from the lush landscapes of Washington, to the warm beaches of San Diego, California. This guide aims to equip you with all the essential information for cycling the Pacific Coast.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or looking to undertake your first long-distance ride, this route offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, challenging terrains, and unforgettable experiences. Join us as we delve into what makes cycling the Pacific Coast an all-time favorite adventure.

Cycling the Pacific Coast gets you some of the most spectacular views on the West coast.

What Is The Pacific Coast Bike Route?

Where does the Pacific Coast Bike Trail start and finish?

The official Pacific Coast Bicycle Route is a 1,852-mile journey starting in Vancouver, British Columbia, and works its way down the West Coast ending at Imperial Beach, California, on the Mexico border. The route has been developed by Adventure Cycling Association (ACA) and takes in much of the classic Highway 101 and State Highway 1 roads along the west coast.

With the added complexity of international travel to start the ride in Canada, many cyclists choose instead to kick off in Seattle, Washington. Logistically this is easier for flying in and out and requires a short ferry from downtown Seattle to Bremerton to join the route.

See the Pacific Coast Bike Route

Ride through the Redwoods National Park and be in awe of the giants around you.

How many miles is the Pacific Coast bike route?

The full route from Vancouver to the Mexico border covers 1,852 miles of varying terrain. If you opt to start in Seattle and end in San Diego, this shaves off a couple of hundred miles, leaving you with closer to 1,675 miles to cycle.

How long is the West Coast bike route?

Naturally the duration of the trip is dependent on you as a cyclist. Usually we recommend around a month to cycle the Pacific Coast from Seattle to San Diego, adding 2 to 3 days to complete the full Vancouver to Mexico route. This allows a steady average of around 60 miles per day plus rest days along the route.

This pace allows you to enjoy the adventure, explore the surrounding areas and not feel rushed. There is so much to appreciate along the west coast so be sure to give yourself plenty of time!

If however you’re looking to push on and cover closer to 100+ miles per day, you could expect to complete the route in roughly 3 weeks. If this is your preference, be prepared to cover less miles per day early in the route where the riding includes more elevation gain, but you’ll be able to catch up in the later portion of California where the route flattens out.

There is wild life everywhere on the Pacific Coast bike rotue.

What to expect when cycling the Pacific Coast?

The Pacific Coast bike route goes through many scenic spots, let’s break them down by state:

Washington Bike Trails

If, like us, you start your Pacific Coast adventure from Seattle, your first major highlight is a scenic ferry ride to Bremerton, leaving the city’s bustle for the serene beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. The edge of the Pacific Northwest welcomes cyclists with its quaint coastal towns, sprawling farmlands, and the tranquil ambiance of rural Washington.

If you start cycling the Pacific Coast from Seattle, you'll first take a scenic ferry to Bremerton.

The ocean start of the Puget Sound is replaced by dense forests as the route winds it’s way south towards Oregon. Reaching the Columbia river is the sign to head west to hit the true Pacific coastline for the first time. Expect cooler mornings and a good chance of rain in these first few days through Washington, but trust me, you won’t mind when you’re in awe of the mountains and trees surrounding you.

Explore other Washington State cycling routes.

Cycle on some of the excellent Washington bike trails as you head towards Oregon.

Cycle Oregon

The historic town of Astoria will be your first maritime town in Oregon. This leg of the Pacific Coast bike route offers breathtaking cliffs, lighthouses and scenic ocean views for days. The small towns will offer a unique opportunity to experience the local culture of Oregon, but can fill up quickly during tourist season.

Be sure to stop off along this stretch. Hike down to the beaches to see the likes of the iconic Haystack Rock, or off into the parks and forest surrounding the route. Again, similar to Washington, the conditions will still be cool, especially with the ocean breeze. Be cautious of morning fog rolling in off the ocean, don’t let it impact your safety of being seen on the road.

Cycle Oregon's lush forests as you ride down the West Coast.

Cycling the California Coast

Biking through the Redwoods

Cycling the California coast offers the most diverse views of the Pacific Coast and covers the best part of two thirds of the route. Upon entering California you won’t be able to miss the stunning redwood trees as they tower over you. Take your time when cycling through Redwood National Park and take in your surroundings. Hike through the forest, spot the wildlife around Elk Prairie and enjoy the overhead canopy you ride under. There really isn’t anywhere quite like it!

Be sure to stop off while cycling the Pacific Coast and take hikes into the forests!

Reaching San Francisco

After passing through the redwoods, cyclists will return to the coast and start making their way towards San Francisco. Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge remains one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring moments when cycling the California coast. The route transforms from natural landscapes to a bustling urban area. Although daunting to some, this urban riding can be a nice change from the tranquil riding, but be sure to check your route for hills when exploring the city.

Soon after leaving San Francisco, you’ll be back to cycling through quiet landscapes including the agriculturally rich Salinas Valley. The acres of vegetable farms and fruit orchards feels like a big shift from the previous forest and city riding.

Taking in the agriculturally rich Salinas Valley views whilst cycling through California on the Pacific Coast Bike Route.

The Big Sur Coastline

Now get ready for the most spectacular part of cycling the Pacific Coast, the Big Sur Coast. Riding high above the ocean on winding coastal roads, you’ll be struggling to take your eyes off the view! The elevation changes are not insignificant, but by this point you’ll be making the most of the cruising descents.

Be warned, many years of landslides and bridge washouts have caused road closure around Big Sur. Be sure to check the latest travel details before riding past Monterey. Even if the through road is closed, it’s worth a day’s ride down and back to Monterey to see the scenery, before making a plan for avoiding any closures.

The meandering roads you'll ride while cycling the Pacific coast bike route.

Cycling through Southern California

As you approach southern California, the scenery changes yet again. Gone are the rugged coastal cliffs and here come the white sand beaches and flat terrain. An increase in urban areas is evident as you ride along the coastline around Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. Some areas include beach bike paths so the increase in traffic becomes less of a concern.

The journey concludes in San Diego, for many this is around Mission Beach. You can also continue to the Mexico border. The final stretch offers relaxed beachside pathways to bring your Pacific Coast bike ride to an end.

The Bike the US for MS team arriving at Mission beach having been cycling the Pacific Coast over 32 days.

Can you bike the California Coastal Trail?

Although the ACA route doesn’t formally take the new California Coastal Trail (CCT), you are able to bike the CCT. The State of California are working on an integrated network of trails. These will allow you to walk and bike the length of California. Worth noting that these will mostly be off road trails and potentially tougher cycling conditions for touring and cycling the Pacific Coast.

How long does it take to cycle the California coast?

The California coastline is approximately 1,200-miles of the total Pacific Coast bike route. Depending on the distance you are covering per day, this could be anywhere from 2-3 weeks of cycling.

What is the most beautiful part of the Pacific Coast Highway?

Although this is often down to personal preference, my favorite stretch of the Pacific Coast has always been cycling around the Big Sur coast of California. The winding roads, high above the ocean below provide views like nowhere else on the route. The Redwoods would be a close second! However the route stays a little more inland so you’re not getting the coastal views at the point.

Take in the giants of the Redwoods as you starting cycling the California coast.

When is the best time to be cycling the Pacific Coast?

While you can ride the Pacific Coast bike route any time of year, there are better times than others. It is advised to avoid the winter due to inclement weather and heavy rain resulting in flooding and mudslides. The best time to tackle the west coast bike route is autumn, spring and early summer. Riding in these timeframes will help to avoid the heavier volume of tourists.

Do you need to be an athlete to be cycling The Pacific Coast?

Biking the Pacific Coast is for anyone from a beginner touring cyclist to an experienced cyclist. The route can be broken down into sections that make the most sense to you and your skill level. The Pacific Coast bike trail route offers a blend of adventure, scenic views and serenity making it appealing to all cyclists.

If you have concerns regarding your ability to take on the route solo or self supported, consider partaking in a group ride down the Pacific Coast. Bike the US for MS offers group trips with Route Leaders to guide you during your journey and support vehicles to carry your gear while you’re biking the west coast.

Taking in the California scenery.

Pacific Coast Bike Route Accommodation

Your accommodations on the Pacific Coast bicycle route is dependent on your preferences and budget. There are a number of options for accommodations – camping, Airbnbs, hotels or a mix of them all. Rarely are their stretches of the route without indoor options. However do plan ahead if you’re not happy to camp on your ride.

Camping on the West Coast

Camping on the Pacific Coast bike route is the most popular and inexpensive option amongst cyclists. With lots of parks and campgrounds there are many options for camping along the route. Many have designated hiker and biker areas that are non reservable.

If you’re traveling in peak tourist season, it is advised to book ahead for private campgrounds or national park sites that require it. These can get booked up months in advance! Check out this detailed list of potential hiker/biker campgrounds for riders to find Pacific Coast bike route accommodations.

Is planning your accommodation feeling overwhelming?

If booking all your own accommodations for your west coast adventure seems overwhelming, consider cycling the Pacific Coast with Bike the US for MS for a logistics free adventure. All accommodations will be arranged for you, allowing you to enjoy the ride. Their Pacific Coast bike route accommodations include a mix of camping, staying at churches, town halls and community centers.

The Pacific Coast Bike Route camping options are vast and have gorgeous surroundings.

Should I cycle the Pacific Coast bike route self supported or as part of a supported bike tour?

Cycling self supported can be wonderfully freeing. You’re on your own schedule, carry the gear you need for the adventure and you can be your own guide. However it can also be daunting to plan the adventure and lonely when out on the road solo. Plus the added challenge of lugging your gear up the coastal cliff climbs.

One alternative is to seek out a supported bike tour that carries your gear, arranges the logistics for you and allows you to ride with others. Bike the US for MS offers just that whilst allowing you the freedom to enjoy the adventure of cycling the Pacific Coast in a way that best suits you. There’s no one to tell you what speed to ride, when to stop or how best to enjoy the ride. That’s very much up to you.

Here’s a breakdown of what you could expect on a supported Pacific Coast bike tour:

  • Route Leaders to support you along the Pacific Coast bike route
  • Two support vehicles to carry your gear
  • A bike mechanic will be available for minor repairs
  • Water breaks will be set up every 15-30 miles depending on the terrain
  • Nightly accommodations will be booked for the group
  • Bike the US for MS will provide assistance and advice on travel and fundraising
  • Minimal cost to you with just an initial donation which goes towards your fundraising target. You’ll only need to cover travel to and from the ride and food during the adventure.

Deciding whether or not to bike individually or in a group is a personal decision for each cyclist to make based on their own goals. However, group trips provide a strong sense of community to share this once in a lifetime experience with. Plus you’ll be riding for a great cause!

Foggy mornings on the Pacific Coast Bike route.

Find out more about cycling the Pacific Coast Bike Route

Cycling the Pacific Coast offers an exciting and unique experience for all cyclists. If you are interested in learning more about the route, want to see the route map or a suggested itinerary, check out the Pacific Coast adventure with Bike the US for MS.