There’s something about long-distance cycling that calls to me. The rhythm of the pedals, the changing landscapes, the solitude-it’s all part of the adventure. Over the years, I’ve taken on plenty of challenging rides, but now I’ve set my sights on something truly epic: the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR).

Why the GDMBR?

The GDMBR is the longest off-road cycling route in the world, stretching from Banff, Canada, all the way down to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. That’s around 2,700 miles of dirt roads, mountain passes, and remote wilderness. It’s not just a ride; it’s an expedition.

For me, the appeal is simple. If I’m going to have an adventure, it might as well be the biggest one out there. The GDMBR is legendary, and completing it would be a personal milestone unlike any other.

The Right Bike for the Job

Choosing the right bike for a journey like this is crucial. I’ll be riding a titanium bike equipped with a Pinion gearbox and a Gates carbon belt drive. This setup eliminates the need for a derailleur and chain lube, which is a huge advantage when dealing with the inevitable mud. The last thing I want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a broken chain or clogged drivetrain.

A ride like the GDMBR isn’t just about endurance-it’s about preparation, problem-solving, and resilience.

Timing It Right

Timing is everything on the GDMBR. Starting too early means dealing with snow in the mountains. Too late, and you risk getting caught in heavy rains that turn the trails into thick, impassable mud. The best window for a southbound ride is early July, giving me the best chance of avoiding extreme weather conditions.

One of the biggest challenges is the infamous peanut-butter mud. This isn’t just regular mud-it’s a thick, sticky mess that can bring even the toughest bikes to a grinding halt. With my belt-drive setup, I’m hoping to minimize the impact, but I’ll still need to be strategic about when and where I ride.

Self-Sufficiency and Survival

The GDMBR is a self-supported ride, meaning I’ll need to carry everything I need on my bike. That includes food, water, camping gear, and tools for any mechanical issues. Resupply points are few and far between, so careful planning is essential.

Then there’s the wildlife. Bears are a real concern in the northern sections of the route, so I’ll be carrying bear spray and making sure to store food properly at night. Encounters are rare, but they do happen, and I’d rather be prepared than caught off guard.

Riding the GDMBR isn’t just about covering miles-it’s about embracing the wild, unpredictable nature of the journey.

The Mental Challenge

Physical endurance is one thing, but the mental challenge of a ride like this is just as demanding. There will be days when the miles feel endless, when the weather turns against me, or when exhaustion makes every pedal stroke a struggle. Staying motivated through those tough moments will be key.

One of the things I love about long-distance cycling is the way it forces you to be present. There’s no room for distractions-just you, your bike, and the road ahead. It’s a rare kind of clarity that’s hard to find in everyday life.

Looking Ahead

Right now, I’m in the planning and preparation phase. I’m researching gear, testing my setup, and getting in as many training miles as possible. I know that no amount of preparation can fully eliminate the unknowns, but that’s part of the adventure.

Will it be tough? Absolutely. Will it be worth it? Without a doubt.

Some journeys are about the destination, but the GDMBR is about the experience-the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

In a couple of years, I’ll be setting off on this incredible ride. Until then, I’ll be training, planning, and dreaming of the day I roll out of Banff, ready to take on the adventure of a lifetime.