Well Done to ALL OF YOU!. It was a pleasure to watch your progress, the way you backed one another up, and shared the experience. Genuinely great, positive, fascinating to watch, Good luck to you all, thanks for sharing!!!!!

@matryderadventures

4 сағат бұрын

Thanks. I was lucky to ride with such awesome people. I'm glad you liked it. Cheers 👍

Mat : you crafted one of the most sober, grounded and informative TourDivide videos I've seen. The cycling community should be most grateful for your efforts.

@matryderadventures

6 күн бұрын

Thanks. I really appreciate your feedback. It's always nice to hear. Cheers and thanks for watching.

I remember graduating from basic training in the Army. I and a bunch of other young recently-become-men had spent 8 weeks sweating in the Alabama summer, enduring the heat and humidity, the exercises and training, the constant stress and verbal abuse of drill sergeants. Each day was hell, and each night was tossing and turning because another day of hell started at 5 am. We took each day as it came, sweating until our clothes and boots were white with dried salt, always starving, always short of sleep, and always wishing that we hadn't done something as dumb as enlisting in the Army. Then, one day, it was over. I had been counting down the days until graduation, but when the day finally came, instead of feeling elation, I felt a huge sense of emptiness. The worst moment was in the bus as it pulled out of the gate, and leaving behind the place where I had spilled blood, sweat, and tears, and which would leave an influence on me that I would remember for the rest of my life. The only real solution was to move on to another challenge, and, for better or worse, that is what the Army did; basic training was only a small appetizer of what the Army eventually dished out to me. But since those days, adventures have been few and far between, and I think it's time to put on my boots (or grab my bike), and go out and find another.

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

Although I haven't come close to the levels of hardship you describe, I think it's completing these challenges is always bittersweet. I hope you manage to get back out for some new adventures. Maybe not quite so challenging as the army. Cheers 👍

@jsdhesmith2011

2 ай бұрын

Same. Marine corps boot camp 1999. It was pure hell and torture going thru it but now I look back at it as if it were the best days of my life. Being pushed to your limits is the only way to live. I now enjoy life when I am tested more than when I am sedentary and content. Go get it!

My wife and i watched your journey think it was best thing I have ever seen

@matryderadventures

29 күн бұрын

Wow. Thanks. That's nice to hear. I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching 👍

Just finished binging the entire ride, had a fantastic time. Thankfully there are people like you that are sharing real experiences

@matryderadventures

6 күн бұрын

Thanks. I love seeing comments like this. Cheers 👍

Thank you three for making the past several weeks so thoroughly fulfilling, stimulating and fun. You have stirred imagination and opened eyes to possibilities. Thank you for your regular Vlog updates and beautiful videos, showing the good, the bad, and the ugly, the beauty spots and the warts. That’s a beautiful gift. I understand your loss of words, Matt, at the end of a biking adventure-journey, especially when done solo over weeks to months. My brain becomes a jumble of memory-emotions. I found my normal loquaciousness stunted and strained, as I tried to convey in words ineffable, my experiences, feelings, joys, trials, self-questioning, triumphs and failures. It’s really weird. One find himself a little lost and purposeless for a few days or weeks following one of these reality breaks away from daily mundanities. Even close family and friends’ eyes glaze over after a few moments or a few pictures of the trip, and you realize words can’t describe a transcendental experience of this sort. Often only another risk-taking adventurer who is comfortable being uncomfortable and unscripted will understand. Anyway, thanks. Even as a passive viewer I feel sad, joyous, enthused, and motivated as this story ends. What more can you ask of an author?

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I really appreciate all the support I've received and I enjoy reading all of these comments. I'll slowly get used to normal life but am already planning the next trip which helps. I can also watch my own videos and re-live the experience which is nice. Thanks for following along 👍

Bravo!! Firstly, congratulations and major kudos on your outstanding achievement, Mat! Superb video - and the pithy Welsh commentary was just priceless! My advice re Tour Aotearoa echoes your own re GDMBR...'if you're thinking about it, just do it'! (Mind you, I might recommend the Sounds2Sounds even more strongly...!) As I'm (an ex-pat Scot) in NZ, I would be honoured to bike alongside you for some of the TA, should that eventuate. Hoping to do GDMBR myself mid-2025...my resolve has hardened since following your epic journey (& had already invested in Pinion/Gates by way of Priority 600X!)

What great guys

@matryderadventures

25 күн бұрын

They are. I was lucky to ride with them. Cheers 👍

Well done. The 3 Amigos. will likely re watch the whole trip again from the start :-).. Well done to Ross for the amazing edits also..

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Nice. Double the views 👍👍👍 'The Three Amigos'...love it 🤣. Thanks for the support.

what a great bunch of guys and interesting to watch. im 50 and just getting back into riding, ive shed 2 stone in weight and building up my stamina, first 10 mile i done, i ached for days, but im still using an old Reynolds 501 Raleigh Mirage from 1989 :) lol

@matryderadventures

Ай бұрын

Excellent. It's amazing how quickly you can get back into shape. 50 is nothing!!! (I keep telling myself that anyway). Good luck with it all 👍👍

I've watched a lot of content creators film the GDMBR, and yours was the best. I loved your honesty and humor. Definitely will be watching more of your content.

@matryderadventures

4 ай бұрын

Excellent. Thanks for letting us know. It's always nice to get such positive feedback. Cheers 👍

Hearing this conversation is priceless. Enjoyed the full length trip and all the follow up videos. Thank you for sharing and it’s now something I may consider because of your experience.

@matryderadventures

Ай бұрын

That's great to hear. I love hearing that people may experience this route due to these videos. You won't regret it.

@markhuckercelticcrossbows7887

Ай бұрын

yup, id pay to watch that, watched it all, in one sitting

Amazing achievement. Just proves you can do whatever you set your mind to. I can see you obviously have more excitement and adventures ahead. Brilliant to watch and gave me lots of smiles. You should be very proud of yourself 😊 Great to see you boys had each other to share the highs and lows.

Hi Mat! I came across your 2+ hour adventure film on your ride. Loved it! ❤ Now watching your 21 full segments now. I appreciate your opinions and observations on your trip. I love your sarcastic type of humor, I would be the same way! Your guy Ross did a great job with the editing. I'm glad I could do the ride through your lens. I look forward to more biking adventures with you. Thank you! Cheers! 🍻

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

Thanks. It's always nice to read such positive comments. I'm glad you liked it/them. Thanks for watching and I appreciate all the support. Cheers 👍

That was most epic. I binge watched the series over the weekend, and was a little sad when it was all over (why do good things have to end!). This debrief was absolutely awesome. You are a good bunch of guys. 👍

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It's nice to hear that you enjoyed the series. I'm already planning the next trip. I'm itching to get back on the bike. Thanks for the support 👍

Matt i have enjoyed every episode so much you have taken us all on an truly memorable adventure!! Thank you so much for sharing your journey. Can't wait to tune in to the nxt one 👍

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks 👍 glad you've enjoyed this adventure. I'm already starting to plan the next one. Thanks for commenting 👍

Congratulations to all of you! It is a long, hard ride. In some ways as or more psychological than physical. I rode a middle half of it in 2019 (Kalispell, MT to Kremmling, CO) and all of it in 2022. Thought I was done with it, but it gets in your blood. Watching your videos makes me think about riding at least sections of it again. I don't know that there is really anything else like it. Happy trails and adventures!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I agree completely. It definitely gets in your blood. I miss the trail already. If I lived in the US I imagine I'd be planning to ride a few sections again too. Cheers 👍

Great watching your videos of the ride. I had the opportunity to finish the GDMBR in the year I turned 60. Did it over 3 Septembers in a row because of work commitments I had at the time. Loved watchhing you rollinto and through that I recognised. Brings back so many memories, most of them good. Yes there were some days from Hell but that is how adventure goes. Congratulations to the three of you for sharing.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. The rough days disappear from memory but the good ones stay with you. I might have ridden the route in sections if I lived in the US. One month at a time sounds good to me. Thanks for following along 👍

Thanks so much for making the effort to film this series. I’ve watched every minute. I’m planning to do the trail in 5years when I’m 40 and the kids are a bit older. Legend

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

No problem. I've really enjoyed the whole KZread thing. 5 years to go...You'll.love it. It's amazing out there. Thanks for following along 👍

@TheBghunt

7 ай бұрын

Sorry that was a typo re-charge every 120 km :)

@matryderadventures

7 ай бұрын

🤣🤣🤣 I nearly replied with some obscenities but thought it may have been a mistake. Definitely. I can't think of any sections where you couldn't recharge within 120km.

Not “rambling nonsense” at all Matt…the GDMBR is the 4th long distance ride I’ve done and like you, I’m always at a loss for words when asked”how was the trip”… just long pauses to try ad define it in a few words. I like the discussion with your fellow riders post-finish. Well done!

@matryderadventures

7 ай бұрын

Thanks. In case I haven't already said it, congratulations to you too. It's good to hear from somebody who knows how difficult it is to describe the GDMBR. Thanks again for the support 👍

Great Q/A about that awesome trip. I hope you guys would stay together for more good trips. Adventure's are always the greatest when shared with friends. Many thanks for video

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'd love to meet up with them again and I'm pretty sure I will. We stay in touch. Cheers 👍

You look the same after the ride as before. You're actually very human, very real. This is good. Thanks for not being all decked out in lycrai need to go back and watch the whole trip, those 2 guys you were with were very informative. Great video.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I've tried to be myself on camera so it's nice to hear that it's coming across that way. No lycra for me....thanks for following along 👍

A good summary of trip. Easier with the 3 contributions I can understand the feeling of putting it into words. An amazing trip.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It was amazing. I miss it already. Cheers 👍

Thank you for talking with the guys and for all you have done over the past few weeks.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

It's been an amazing experience and I've really enjoyed the whole KZread thing....thanks for following along 👍

Loved the chat. Its great how good people find each other. Hope we get to hear from Bill and John in the future.Thanks Mat for all the videos. Very inspiring. Just got back from a relatively tame 1800kms on the Ronde van Nederland and now looking for more adventures. Turning 70 next month so better get to it. Best wishes from Australia.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Hi. I just took a look at the Ronde van Nederland. Looks good. I'm putting a list of rides together for the future. Interestingly, I'm going to be on that route for a small section as part of an extended loop I'll be riding in December. I hope I'm still out riding at 70. Cheers 👍

@johndebes1060

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures The RvN was amazing. From the long coastal rides, forests, farmlands and beautiful little towns-it was all great. Everywhere the people were so friendly and helpful. I camped every night and made many friends. Highly recommend it.

Thanks Matt, a totally amazing trip to follow along too. Its not often you find a jem of channel like this. I watched the whole trip in the last two weeks. I hope your next adventures fill your memory box a little further and you continue to take us along with you. Atb jay.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks Jay. I'm glad you enjoyed the trip. I'm planning some more smaller trips and will definitely be getting them out on KZread. I really enjoy the whole filming process. Cheers 👍

Great job to all! You are such an inspiration for all of us.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks..it's nice to hear that people are inspired. Amazing trip! Thanks for following along 👍

Seems to me on the A.T. , the trail IS the destination , and on the bike both the trail itself AND the destination are equivalent to each other. Definitely a bonus of bikepacking. As I see it anyway, wonderfully documented, made me feel both a part of the trip and wanting to simulate the trip for myself. Thank you for sharing these experiences.

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

Very well put. I agree completely. I'm thinking of another through hike, but it wouldn't be another long one. Maybe the Arizona Trail? Cheers 👍

Hi Matt, I've just finished watching all your videos of the trip and must say a very well done. 👌 I found it very inspirational and have definitely got this ride on my to do list. Once again a very well done👏

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

I hope you make it out there. It's such an incredible trail. You'll love it. Cheers 👍

Hi Mat. I learned about the GDMBR about a month ago. Now I've binge-watched your video series on the GDMBR. Awesome adventure. I love how open you are about how you feel during the trip. That's both educational and inspiring. I dream of riding the GDMBR in two years. Next year I'll have to try out some shorter bikepacking trips to experiment with equipment and experience how it is to ride with the extra weight. Thanks for this great video series, it's a true inspiration!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad you.enjoyed them. I hope you make it out there. It's incredible. It's a good idea to get used to the extra weight. I should have tried out more shorter trails. Thanks for following along 👍

Top effort Mat, what an unbelievable experience it must have been. Amazing scenery and footage. Thanks for sharing. Thoroughly enjoyed every episode, relaxed genuine presenting style, dead pan humour, No fake drama or click bait. Looking forward to watching your future adventures. Cheers

@matryderadventures

4 ай бұрын

Hi. Thanks for that. I appreciate the support. It was an incredible trip and I really enjoyed the whole filming process so will definitely be filming the next adventure. Cheers 👍

@andrewcarlson2955

3 ай бұрын

The hardest part is coming home with all the superpowers that you have developed within yourself while traveling but no one else did while they stayed home…it’s not their fault but it’s hard to adjust to…it’s difficult to hang onto the superpowers but that’s what memories are for…I was always sad a few days after each ride ended. Love those monster rides and you do rush the first ride but none after that. Looking forward to watching your trip in USA…

@andrewcarlson2955

3 ай бұрын

Oh! El Paso is amazing mountains surrounding it

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

I know exactly what you mean. I came back feeling superhuman but it soo. Goes once you're back in normal life. I'm looking forward to the TransAm and getting back into that life. Cheers 👍

Well done, thank you

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

It was an amazing trip. Thanks for the support 👍

Really appreciate your insight for those of us considering this epic trail.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I hope you make it out there 👍

Such inspiration. Envy you with the patience you had riding your bike. Two months riding is just overwhelming. Great adventure and thanks for bringing is along!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It's funny but you settle into the longer trips within a few days. Thanks for following along 👍

awesome videos man

Good job man. You really did the whole dam thing!!!!! So far I've done a few overnighters but I wasn't keen to go more than 2 hops away from home yet. I'm planning to do a few wintery over nights this winter but you've inspired me to really do it next time around. Thank you so much for sharing.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I really did, didn't I 🤣. It surprises me too!! If you get chance definitely go for it. It's incredible. Cheers 👍

Mat we absolutely loved watching your adventure. Thank you for all the great video and making it look enjoyable. I am retiring in December and I am excited to try some bikepacking. I’ve got some small trips planned in Texas.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I imagine there are some great trails in Texas. I'm sure you'll really enjoy bikepacking. In my experience it's the best way to explore. I'll be interested to hear how you get on. Congratulations on retiring!!!

Very nice ending to a great adventure. I did Banff to Missoula and only 10 days riding, at the end I was filled with emotions and had a hard time going back to civilization 😅. Again, I enjoyed the videos and the stories, thank you again and a big cheers from Southern California!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

You rode an amazing section..I loved it up there. I'm starting to get used to civilization again but am already planning the next trip..thanks for following along 👍

Loved it! Look forward to your next adventure.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'll be back out riding again soon. Thanks for following along 👍

SOOOOO INSPIRERING!👍👍

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. That's nice to hear 👍👍

We are all praying for him.

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

Thankyou.

Thanks for sharing the adventure and giving us a grand finale breakdown. Many have been inspired including myself, Cheers

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

That is good to hear, I hope it comes across that if I can do it then anyone can! My next video will be aimed towards anyone thinking of giving the GDMBR (or a similar ride) a go, so hopefully that will be of interest to you and a few other commenters. Thank you for watching 👍

Awesome, gentlemen! Thank you! 👍🇨🇦😎💫

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

Thanks👍👍

Great series, thanks for bringing us along!

@matryderadventures

5 ай бұрын

No problem. Thanks for watching 👍

Hi Matt My wife and I have decided to do GDMBR in 2024 and came upon your videos on KZread doing some research. Very interesting . Have walked the Te Araroa trail in NZ and also bike packed the Tour Aotearoa route last year as well. We just spent 2 months biking from Amsterdam to Bratislava along Rhine and the Donau and totaly enjoyed all of it. I myself am a convert from multi day hiking to bike packing . Good luck with your next adventures will look out for them. Cheers😅

@matryderadventures

8 ай бұрын

You'll love it out there. Good luck for 2024. I'm planning on getting out to New Zealand in 2025, either for a long hike or to do the Tour Aotearoa. Either looks amazing. I would also like to explore Europe more. Your recent ride sounds interesting. Cheers 👍

Brilliant and inspiring! Thank you all for sharing.

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for watching 👍

You guys are an amazing team 🤗🤗🤗🤗💪💪💪👌👌👌

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

Fantastic riding companions. Hopefully we'll all meet up again.

i watch all the GDMBR videos anyone posts. your mix of in town, store, hotel and the nature was the best i have seen. do wish there was less face time and more scenery time even if you are talking. very well done sir.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'll take your comments on board. I love constructive feedback. We're learning all the time. Cheers 👍

What a nice and informative talk !! Thank you for that informations from the guys.

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching. I'm glad you found it interesting. Cheers 👍

Great to hear your thoughts on all aspects. Look forward to following your next adventure

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I've started planning the next one. It won't be as big as this one but I'm already looking forward to getting back out on the bike. Cheers 👍

Congrats Matt and all the guys! Well done! The videos were super great and the best I have seen on the Great Divide. I hope to follow in your footsteps one day. Thanks for all of the videos and sharing your experiences! Best of luck on your travels in the future!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It's nice to hear that you enjoyed them. I hope you get to ride it at some point. It's an amazing trail and I miss it already. Thanks for the support 👍

We really enjoyed every video of your Tour Divide, it was a fantastic achievement. Thanks for sharing your trip with us, we can’t wait for your next adventure. We hope that we get to see the three of you again on future travels. Thanks Mat

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad you enjoyed it. It was an incredible trail. I'm already planning the next one. I would love to ride with John and Bill again. It should happen at some point. Thanks for following along 👍

Mat, I really enjoyed this series. I stumbled across your channel when I was searching for DIY bikepacking bags and found your video showing off your sewing handiwork. As I fell deeper into the rabbit hole of bikepacking research, I learned about Pinion/Gates drives and that Gates has an app to help in proper tensioning of the belt. From the Gates carbon drive app description: "Just pluck your belt like a guitar string and use the microphone on your phone to read the vibration frequency." I hope that might help you with your setup and prevent your belt coming off so frequently. -Craig

@matryderadventures

8 ай бұрын

Cheers Craig. I've had a go with the Gates app and it definitely helps. My issue was more to do with alignment. I think I have it set up correctly now. I'm glad you enjoyed the series. Cheers 👍

Seriously this whole trip was the best thing ive seen on KZread. Loved it. What a really nice genuine bunch. Hope you all get 2 ride again sonetime in the future

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It's genuinely amazing to hear that you liked this series so much. I hope we all manage to meet up for another trip too. There's no reason why not. Cheers 👍

I have absolutely loved watching you! You videos were refreshingly simple. Perfect!! Congrats on checking this on off!! Looking forward to more trips!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It's nice to hear that you're enjoying these videos. I'm already planning the next one. Thanks for the support 👍

Matt thanks for making me laugh so hard, following your ride this past week, you are so very entertaining. Thanks for sharing with us all. Also thanks for the saddle recommendation, have a Ergon SMC Sport Gel ordered and on the way!

@matryderadventures

5 ай бұрын

Hi. It's nice to hear you enjoyed this series. It was a truly amazing ride. I love the Ergon saddle. I think the gel version will be ultra luxurious. Cheers 👍

Just found your channel. Loved your humor and the drone shots were great. Thanks for sharing your great adventure.

@matryderadventures

7 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Cheers 👍

Great round up with the boys, looking forward to the next one. Chapeau all

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. Cheers 👍

I just finished watching your aventure through the GDMBR and wanted to thank you for your human, no-BS approach. I am planning on riding in 2026 so I will definately re-watch later on and take your lesson learned into consideration. Looking forward to follow you on your next adventures. Would love if you did a video on how you plan your filming/drone shots as I try to get better at documenting. Thank you!

@matryderadventures

3 ай бұрын

Hi. I'm glad you liked that series. You're going to love it out there. Roll on 2026. I hadn't considered a video about the filming aspect. I'll think about that. If I'm honest, I'm still learning and I tend to film way too much stuff, throw it all at my friend/editor Ross and he does all the work. I am working on refining things and will make a video about it in the future. Cheers 👍

Chapeau Guys, BIG ride and brilliant adventure. I enjoyed following you along. Cheers.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It was an incredible trip. Thanks.for all the support 👍👍

I really enjoyed the tales of your adventures. Very inspiring. Congrats on finishing the trip.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks 👍 . I had an amazing time out there. Thanks for commenting 👍

Great video series. Best I have seen on the GDMR. I hope to one day to do the ride myself. Congratulations.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. That's good to hear! I hope you make it out there. It's incredible. Thanks for following along 👍

What a story / adventure… hats of to you fellas . Safe travels and hope to see you on the trails of Essex and Suffolk

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'll be out on more local rides soon. I'm itching to get on the bike again. Cheers 👍

Congratulations 🎊 ❤

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

Cheers 👍

Awesome Mat, well done fella Thanks so much for sharing your adventure

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It was a lot of fun filming these videos. I'm just grateful to hear that people liked them. Cheers 👍

Amazing trip and so fun to watch. You constantly amazed me, the miles you did on the absolute shit food you filled your body with! Made me alternately laugh and cringe. But hats off to you for all the extra effort needed to film like you did. I absolutely loved it all

@matryderadventures

8 ай бұрын

Cheers. I definitely didn't eat well....I've learned my lesson, I think. We'll see if I revert once I'm back out on a longer trail. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching 👍👍

Thank you for covering this ride and sharing it with us! I know that must be a huge extra effort on top of doing this challenging ride. I really enjoyed all of it…the scenery, the details, your perspective and especially your humor! We binged all your videos at once! It sure helps us in our planning for doing the TD next year.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

All at once!!! I couldn't spend that much time watching myself. It's appreciated though 😃. Good luck with next year, you'll love it. Cheers 👍

Well done. You are an inspiration. Be patient with your self.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'll try!!! Thanks for following along 👍

Just finished the whole series - What an adventure that was!! It was great to share it with you. Hope you’re about to set out on another soon, and that Ipswich doesn’t feel too hum drum in comparison. I guess there is adventure to be had wherever you seek it.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

It was an amazing trip. Thanks for watching it. I have a few smaller trips planned and am in the planning stages for some bigger ones too. I'll definitely be putting them all on KZread. I really enjoy the whole filming process. Cheers 👍

That’s a great cycle shop! Used on my Southern Tier trip

My wife and I binge-watched your videos over the weekend. We really enjoyed them and found them informative. We are planning on doing this ride in the next couple of years. May I suggest a ride in British Columbia called the BC Epic 1000. It goes from Merritt to Fernie (1000 km). Most of it is on old railroad bed that has been converted to trail. Thanks again for the great content

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I'll definitely look into the BC Epic 1000. I'd love to get back to BC. Thanks for the recommendation. I'm glad you enjoyed the videos and I hope you make it out onto the GDMBR. I loved the whole experience. Cheers 👍👍

Job well done Mat ! Hope you and the boys will be able to adventure together in the future

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Me too! We've discussed maybe meeting up for another ride. I hope it happens. Thanks for following along 👍

Matt , Congratulations 🎉 again. I can relate the the emotional upheaval after finishing. I am sure the next few weeks / months will have some moments. Enjoyed the addition of Bill and John. Looking forward to a few more recap videos, and your next adventure. Most of all thank you again for being such an inspiration! Be well my friend

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for all the support Scott 👍. I'm lucky as I can start planning more trips. It definitely helps with the 'reintegration' into society... cheers.

Super enjoyed watching your trip you had with Bill and John . Already started watching it again . May I suggest for your next trip the Tahoe Twirl trail for next year .

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Hi. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Hopefully you will second time around too...I just googled the Tahoe Twirl trail. It's on my list. Thanks for the recommendation 👍

Well done Matt. Looking forward to riding the route maybe next year.

@arcoulant87

9 ай бұрын

I am riding next year starting end of June ish may see you there.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I hope you make it out there. You won't be disappointed. I miss it already. Cheers 👍

I spend way too much time watching bikepacking and bike related videos on youtube and this series has been much better than most. And in my opinion it is the best on touring not racing the Great Divide. I would be surprised if it did not become a primary source for those planning this trip. Congratulations to you all and happy trails.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. It would be nice if people did use it for research. I like the idea of helping people to plan the trip. Also, it'd keep getting views. Thanks for commenting 👍

Congrats on completing this epic trip fellas. Definitely gave me and my wife some solid advice and ideas for our go down there next August. The offer for a trip here in western Canada is always open.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I'd be crazy to turn down your offer!! I'll definitely 100% be in touch. Good luck for next August. Cheers 👍

Well done to you all! Brilliant series, cant wait for the next one Mat!

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

It's already in the planning stages. It won't be as big as this one but I can't wait. I miss the bike already. Did you decide on the forks? Cheers 👍

@teddylott

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures exciting. Well like I said if you ever want to come over to Iceland next summer or what not then you should. Yeah I reckon I’ll get those ones you have if I go with the sonder unless they have their own carbon ones. current bike is a full suspension Nukeproof so first I want to get my tailfin stuff put on it and see how it goes for longer trips loaded up. Definitely want a pinion bike for winter riding and hassle ish free peace of mind.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

@teddylott good idea to try your full suspension bike first. I didn't see any on the GDMBR but I can't see why it won't work. It'll be good over the washboard. Sonder do make their own carbon forks. I'm sure they'll be fine. Probably made in the same factory as mine anyway. I may well come over to Iceland in the summer. I visited in January and would love to do some riding there. I'll keep in touch. Cheers 👍

@teddylott

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures yes all of them have their positive and negative sides for sure. Will try it properly on multi day trips once I get my bags sorted. Yes stay in touch indeed. Cheers Mat

Amazing debrief. Great accomplishment, well done

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. Glad you liked it.

@theexplorer6813

9 ай бұрын

You've inspired me to do my own journey.@@matryderadventures

Well done for completing and for filming and sharing your journey. Take my hat off to you for mental toughness and ability to learn about diet and fluid needs as you went along. Just watching your old videos before we watch this GDMBR again...waiting impatiently for your next big adventure...nag..nag...nag like an old woman

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

🤣🤣 I've experienced way worse nagging than that!! I'm planning my next trip already. It won't be as big as this one but should still be interesting. At least this time I'll have learned that I need to eat and drink more from the beginning. Thanks for watching...twice 👍👍

Sir, Your experience is not limited, you finished the the GDMBR. I have pedaled a total of 50 miles this past weekend on my first adventure, my butt feels like it is going to fall off. I enjoy your input and will consider your thoughts/input greatly.

@matryderadventures

6 ай бұрын

50 miles for a first adventure is good going. I hope it all went well. I know that 'butt falling off' feeling. It gets better... Cheers and thanks for watching 👍

Loved this video. I can remember being emotional as well after longer backpacking or canoe trips, although my trips weren't near as long as your adventure. My emotions were usually about not wanting it to end. haha! I love living simply on the trail or water, only worrying about getting though one day at a time. Really enjoyed your chat with Bill and John, nice to hear everyone's thoughts on the trip. It seems you made a couple good buddies and that is a wonderful thing! Thanks for sharing and looking forward to your next adventure! :) :)

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks Jacqueline. It's strange as I look forward to finishing trips and then immediately miss being on them. I'm planning the next trip already. I love my canoe and would love to do a multi day canoe trip. Maybe in Scotland?? John and Bill are great guys. I was lucky to have met them.. thanks for all the support.

@jacqueline7118

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures Would love to see a canoe trip! Hope you can get out on one! :)

As good and inspiring as expected. Rest up and re plan , more of this essential. d

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad you liked this trip. The next one is in the planning stages already. Thanks for following along 👍

Excellent series. I just finished it up and found every episode entertaining and compelling. I rode the GCDR (what I call it) south to north in 2022 on a Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle, and followed roughly the same route. Technically I started in El Paso, to Columbus, and got on the proper route in Silver City. I called it complete enough when I got to West Glacier and went through GNP to Billings where I flew back home from. I was amazed on our trip how many cyclists I saw. Easily outnumbered the number of motorcyclists 20 to 1. I found it fascinating and it honestly was one thing that got me interested in riding bikes which I started doing about a year ago with an entry level gravel bike. Anyway, I really enjoyed following your trip because aside from what a great job you (and Ross) did with creating this series, and the fun watching your experiences, I got to see a lot of the areas I didn't get to - or a slightly alternate route, and also to recognize so many of the same spots and roads. And oh yes, we hit the nasty, slick mud in NM near Pie Town... I loved every episode and subscribed. Looking forward to seeing more. Appreciate it.

@matryderadventures

6 ай бұрын

Your version of this trip sounds amazing. I saw a few motorbikes out these but no Royal Enfield's. I'd love to go motorbike touring over there. I haven't owned a motorcycle for over ten years but I'm getting the itch!! Cheers 👍

@JohnnyPowRides

6 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures if you are curious here's my video series of that trip. Cheers! kzread.info/dash/bejne/Y6uixKyfgdHJhpc.html&pp=gAQBiAQB

@matryderadventures

6 ай бұрын

Excellent. I'll be sure to watch it. Cheers 👏

Great stuff guys! Keeping me motivated until 2025 to finish what I started.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Excellent 👍👍. Nice to hear. Cheers 👍

I am planning on doing the tour divide in 2024. Had planned on trying to complete it in 30days. After watching your ride 30days is just way too rushed and just not enough time to take it all in. I’m not interesting in racing. 50 or 60 days way more realistic to take in the sights. Glad I stumbled on you videos. Great effort Mat.

@matryderadventures

8 ай бұрын

I'm glad I didn't rush. I spoke to lots of people who were rushing through it and most of them were a bit jealous that I could take so much time. You'll.love it. Good luck for 2024. Cheers 👍 .

Wonderful stuff boyo! Enjoyed it all the way with you. Do Bill and John have any social media we can follow?

@matryderadventures

2 ай бұрын

Cheers Butt. I don't think they have. I'll check with them and let you know.

Most excellent! Thanks again for a great video series on the Divide. Very true to life out there, and not sugar coated. As a long time road cycling tourist I'll agree with Bill that the Divide is very different, and much harder. Every single day is different. The terrain, weather, road surface, it changes by the hour. Hey Mat, trick to the Brooks B-17 hardness is to use Brooks Proofide product when it is new from the box. A thick coat slathered on underside and top, old shorts, go for a short 20 mile ride. The Proofide will soak right in. Second ride, another thick coat only underside, go for ride, it soaks in again. Third ride, coat the underside lightly, after 20 miles you will see two small impressions for your "Sit Bones". Almost there. Again, thanks for reality check on the Divide and your humor. I'm switching to racks and panniers.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for the saddle tip. I have the C17 which is the artificial version but your instructions are useful as I'm seriously considering buying a B17. Thanks. I was extremely happy with my panniers. I've ordered a front rack too. Thanks for the support 👍

Well done to you Mat, and Bill, John and Paul too, what an epic ride! An honest account of the trip, you’ve all made friends for life and you may have stumbled across a new diet. Eat what you want, as much as you want and lose a stone a month! Thanks Mat, great stuff! 👍 (I’m with you on the biking versus hiking too. I’ve been researching doing the Camino de Santiago, which you can ride, but I definitely prefer biking)

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Hi. You finished the series!! Thanks for watching all of the videos. I'll definitely stay in touch with John and Bill. Hopefully we'll meet up again. I like your diet suggestion. The only problem is fitting in a 50 mile ride every day! I am undecided on how to do the Camino. There are a few different routes so I may hike one and bike another. We'll see ... at the moment I'm all about the bike. Cheers. And thanks for all the comments 👍👍

What a great series thank you for taking me on the adventure with you. I’m actually disappointed that its over because I really enjoyed it. congratulations on completing this epic journey. This is my bucket list ride that I’m hoping to complete in the next 2-3 years what would be a realistic budget to set for riding it over a 40 day period if you don’t mind me asking? Thanks again what a treat this series has been. Your series and Van Duzer are my top 2 currently. Looking forward to more of your adventures.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I hope you make it out there..I'm.certain you'll love it. Funnily enough, I've just filmed a video where I talk about budgets etc. It should be out on Monday 18th. It's difficult to be precise but I think that video will help. Thanks for following along 👍

Massive well done guys ..hope you can do something together again ..looking fwd to seeing your trip home Mat and some adventures in the UK Atb Coops 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🚴🚴🚴

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. I hope we ride together again. I'll be going on some UK rides soon and am already planning the next big trip. Cheers Coops 👍👍👍

Great stuff. Loved the chats and well done for completing the ride! Really interested on how you feel about having done the GDMBR and how few about getting back into “normal” or “real” life. Although that life should be the “real” one. Looking forward to the next video and how you are feeling. How do you manage to get the time away?

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I'll be filming some follow up videos so will address the 'getting back to real life' issue. I feel pretty good. I'm lucky in so much as I have a nice Normal life so, provided I have another trip planned I'm feeling good. Also, this whole KZread thing is really helping. It's an exciting challenge. I luckily have a very flexible job so I can work as and when I want which helps. Thanks for commenting .

So well done! You did such a fantastic job of filming & love this after chat.. so inspiring & you added so much detail about everything along the way.. makes me think at my age of 68 & having medical issues & riding a gravel e-bike, maybe I can do it bit by bit, take my time, maybe need to detour/ take alternate routes here & there.. I have the bug now, more than ever before! Thank you so much! PS I went backpacking around Europe & UK when I was 17, went to Wales 🩵

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I believe you could definitely do this route in secrions with a few modifications. It'd be a challenge but that's what it's all about. I hope you manage to do it. If you have any questions I'm happy to answer them. Just mail me at matryder2@gmail.com. Thanks for the support 👍. I will.go out on a limb and guess that it rained when you were in Wales!!!!

@pedalspaws3704

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures it did a little bit! 😆

Hey Mat Well done on a great series of videos. Really enjoyed that they were so current and able to be enjoyed every 3-4 days. We (me and wife Angela) are from NZ and this year we came to Europe and rode Amsterdam to Instanbul over 10 weeks. GDMBR is next on our list so thanks for sharing.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Thanks. Amsterdam to Istanbul. I'm going to take a look. Was it a known route or did you make your own? I'm sure you'll love the GDMBR. It was an amazing trip. Good luck! If you have any questions about the route mail me at matryder2@gmail.com. I'm more than happy to answer. Cheers 👍

@user-vb6on2zf5w

9 ай бұрын

Hi Mat We made it up based off exisiting Eurovelo routes and also trying to cycle in places we hadn't on a previous trip 30 years ago! Roughly our route was Amsterdam-Maastricht (Netherlands) via the Maasroute, then across into Germany via Aachen to Bonn then down the Rhine to Mainz. Then following the Main river route (EV4) to Prague before crossing Czechia via a few different routes to Bratislava (Slovakia). Then we followed the Danube (EV6) all the way to southern Serbia. Joined the EV 13 and follwed this until Edirne in Turkey, before heading directly to Istanbul and our finish. Originally we thought we'd start in London but changed to Amsterdam which was the ideal place to start our Across Europe trip. Mat Hall has done a really good KZread series on his trip 2-3 years ago. Like you we used accommodation, camping (paid and free) and WarmShowers with WS a real highlight for us as it enabled us to get a better understanding of countries like Hungary and Serbia. Looking forward to your last two post trip videos.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Sounds incredible. Thanks for being so concise. I'll look into it. I'll also look up Mat Hall. Thanks 👍.

The GDMBR is high on my wish list, especially after seeing all your great videos. I am trying to get clear for myself on how much I need to train beforehand, though. Besides the long distance and lots of climbing and descending, I think the temperature is also a tough factor.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I didn't get anything like enough training in. Thankfully you can get into shape on the trail. I would focus on the climbing if you can. The descents are not bad, provided you're happy to go slow like me..The temperature was a challenge but it didn't really get too hot until New Mexico. I hope you make it out there. It was an incredible experience. Cheers 👍

Well, where do I start? What a journey!! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching your whole trip. The videos have been great. I’ve been so jealous of the whole thing, it all looked amazing. Well done Matt. Looking forward to your next trip. Keep the videos coming. All the best, Scott.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Cheers Scott. I'm glad you've enjoyed them. It was amazing. I'm already planning the next trip. Cheers, Mat.

@welshwoodsman

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures can you do a thorough review of your bike? It’s the same model that I’m hoping to get.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

@@welshwoodsman no problem. It may take a few weeks as I have some other videos lined up. In the meantime I can tell you that I am very happy with it. I really like the pinion gearbox and belt drive. It's pretty much maintenance free. I'm no expert on bikes and don't really know what I'm talking about if I'm honest. What I can say for certain is it's well made, all of the welds are perfect, and it didn't let me down once on the trail. The belt coming off was my fault and I think I've sorted it.

@welshwoodsman

9 ай бұрын

@@matryderadventures out of interest, what tyres were you running?

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

@@welshwoodsman I started with Goodyear Escape 2.6" but ended with Maxxis Reckons 2.6". Very happy with both. I have 27.5" wheels so would like to try 3.0" tyres at some point and run lower pressures.

I think for me what was great is the people and the renewed faith in humanity. You will remember those folks for the rest of your life.

@matryderadventures

4 ай бұрын

You're absolutely right. I met so many incredible people on this trip (and on the AT). Cheers 👍

Congratulations on a job well done! I"ve been thinking about doing the GDMBR for some time. I would love to do it next summer I'm 66 and have sleep apnea, so I've got to get clever. Nice to see older folks still going at it. Mat...you're not an older guy yet. I look forward to watching your next adventure. Question...what was the date that you started and would you start on a different date should you do it again? Thanks.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I hope you manage to get out here next summer. It's an amazing trail and I know you'll enjoy it. I can imagine the sleep apnea will be a challenge. Good luck and if you have any questions mail me at matryder2@gmail.com. cheers 👍

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Sorry. I missed your last question. I started on July 2nd. I would start on that date again. It all worked out well.

Hello from Laredo Texas

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

Hi. Good to hear from you!!! Thanks for watching 👍

It was that good i`m going to watch it all again. Lets see if your air bed holds up this time and your belt stops on.

@matryderadventures

9 ай бұрын

I hope so because getting that belt back on is a pain in the a*#**. You're helping me to rack up those views 👍👍🤣🤣