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Saddle up for an exhilarating journey across Georgia with the Cycling Men of Leisure as we lead our largest-ever team of 43 riders through the challenging Appalachian foothills. This episode captures the first half of our fourth consecutive BRAG (Bike Ride Across Georgia) adventure, where the terrain proved anything but flat.

From Rome to Jasper to Dawsonville, we navigate the notorious "Three-Headed Medusa Hill" – a punishing 14% grade climb that humbled even the most experienced cyclists in our group. Between the grueling ascents, we discover the rich tapestry of small-town Georgia, including a visit to "the only legal distillery in Jasper," where smoked cinnamon old-fashioneds become our recovery drink of choice.

Beyond the cycling, this episode reveals the logistics, camaraderie, and unexpected moments that define a great bicycle tour. We explore our experience with Padre Cycle Inn's full-service camping option (a game-changer for multi-day rides), engage in a playful rivalry with the "Cycling Women Against Leisure" team, and encounter remarkable local characters like Chris, who created an entire cycling park from recycled factory materials.

The episode features on-location audio from our distillery visit and an interview with the team behind Padre Cycle Inn, showcasing how their service transforms the traditional camping experience for cyclists. Whether you're planning your own cycling adventure or simply enjoy experiencing the journey vicariously, this episode delivers equal parts inspiration and practical insight.

Stay tuned for part two, where we'll reveal who conquered the go-kart track, share our interview with BRAG's executive director, and wrap up our Georgia cycling adventure. Subscribe now to ensure you don't miss the conclusion of our cross-state odyssey!

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Embarking on a journey of camaraderie that spans years, Adam and Michael have cultivated a deep friendship rooted in their mutual passion for cycling. Through the twists and turns of life, these two friends have pedaled side by side, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and good-natured teasing that only solidifies the authenticity of their bond.

Their cycling escapades, filled with laughter and banter, are a testament to the enduring spirit of true friendship. Whether conquering challenging trails or coasting through scenic routes, Adam and Michael's adventures on two wheels are a testament to the joy found in the simple pleasures of life.

If you're on the lookout for a podcast that captures the essence of friendship and the thrill of cycling, look no further. Join them on this audio journey, where they not only share captivating stories but also invite you to be a part of their cycling community. Get ready for a blend of fun tales, insightful discussions, and a genuine celebration of the joy that comes from embracing the open road on two wheels. This podcast is your ticket to an immersive and uplifting cycling-centric experience.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
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Adventure meets technology in this gear-up episode as Adam and Michael prepare for their upcoming Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) journey and explore essential tech tools for cyclists.

The duo celebrates a milestone moment when Adam correctly guesses Huntsville, Alabama as the previous Listener Spotlight location—the rocket city that inspired Elton John's iconic song. This rare victory sparks friendly banter as they share how multiple listeners submitted correct answers for the first time in the podcast's history.

Weather technology takes center stage as they discuss crucial apps that have transformed the cycling experience. Michael reveals his reliance on Weather Underground and Radar Scope for detailed storm tracking, while Adam demonstrates his strategic method of saving multiple destination points in his weather app to monitor conditions across entire routes. The Windy app emerges as a cyclist's secret weapon, providing crucial information about potential headwinds or tailwinds that can make or break a day's ride.

The conversation shifts to geocaching—a GPS-based treasure hunting activity that combines perfectly with cycling adventures. From library-based hunts to trackable items that can follow your bike's journey, this emerging hobby offers a compelling reason to explore new routes and destinations.

Most exciting is their upcoming first experience with a full-service charter during BRAG. After years of handling their own logistics, they're trying Padres Cycling Inn's comprehensive package that includes tent setup, gear transportation, and amenities that promise to transform their multi-day ride experience. The anticipation is palpable as they compare packing strategies and debate whether luxury services might spoil them for future independent adventures.

Between discussions of sun protection strategies and family moments, their friendship and shared passion for cycling shines through. Whether you're a weather app enthusiast, curious about geocaching, or considering a charter service for your next cycling event, this episode delivers practical insights and entertaining stories that will have you ready to hit the road.

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Embarking on a journey of camaraderie that spans years, Adam and Michael have cultivated a deep friendship rooted in their mutual passion for cycling. Through the twists and turns of life, these two friends have pedaled side by side, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and good-natured teasing that only solidifies the authenticity of their bond.

Their cycling escapades, filled with laughter and banter, are a testament to the enduring spirit of true friendship. Whether conquering challenging trails or coasting through scenic routes, Adam and Michael's adventures on two wheels are a testament to the joy found in the simple pleasures of life.

If you're on the lookout for a podcast that captures the essence of friendship and the thrill of cycling, look no further. Join them on this audio journey, where they not only share captivating stories but also invite you to be a part of their cycling community. Get ready for a blend of fun tales, insightful discussions, and a genuine celebration of the joy that comes from embracing the open road on two wheels. This podcast is your ticket to an immersive and uplifting cycling-centric experience.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
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Mother's Day meets cycling adventures in this spirited episode where we dive into the exciting plans for Big Brag 2025 with Executive Director Franklin Johnson. Before our special interview, we share some cycling-related Mother's Day facts and celebrate that our upcoming Big Brag adventure coincides with World Bicycle Day on June 3rd!

Michael regales us with tales from the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting, complete with plentiful Dairy Queen ice cream and Warren Buffett's retirement announcement. We also crown a winner in our Listener Spotlight segment, revealing Naples, Florida—the golf capital of the world with more golf holes per capita than anywhere else in the United States—as our mystery location.

The highlight of our episode is our exclusive conversation with Franklin Johnson, who shares breathtaking details about his recent Croatia cycling adventure before unveiling exciting plans for the Dawsonville rest day during Big Brag 2025. Franklin describes what he calls "Awesomeville" activities including cycling on a professional F1 racetrack, racing go-karts at 60mph, and visiting Amicalola Falls—Georgia's tallest waterfall. We learn about convenient shuttles, nearby dining options, and even a distillery within walking distance of camp. Throughout our conversation, Franklin provides valuable updates on route planning, century-ride adjustments, and helpful logistics for participants.

As the episode wraps up, we tease special team activities planned for Dawsonville and launch a new Listener Spotlight challenge featuring clues about a city that changed its name before the War of 1812, had nine Civil War generals from opposing sides born nearby, and could have inspired a famous Elton John song.

Ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure? Listen now and discover why Dawsonville promises to be the highlight of Big Brag 2025! Whether you're already registered or considering joining us, this episode will fuel your excitement for what lies ahead on Georgia's beautiful roads.

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Jersey Store

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Embarking on a journey of camaraderie that spans years, Adam and Michael have cultivated a deep friendship rooted in their mutual passion for cycling. Through the twists and turns of life, these two friends have pedaled side by side, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and good-natured teasing that only solidifies the authenticity of their bond.

Their cycling escapades, filled with laughter and banter, are a testament to the enduring spirit of true friendship. Whether conquering challenging trails or coasting through scenic routes, Adam and Michael's adventures on two wheels are a testament to the joy found in the simple pleasures of life.

If you're on the lookout for a podcast that captures the essence of friendship and the thrill of cycling, look no further. Join them on this audio journey, where they not only share captivating stories but also invite you to be a part of their cycling community. Get ready for a blend of fun tales, insightful discussions, and a genuine celebration of the joy that comes from embracing the open road on two wheels. This podcast is your ticket to an immersive and uplifting cycling-centric experience.

and Remember,

It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!
https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisure
https://cyclingmenofleisure.com/
http...