Another highlight was working with some of the organizations in Michigan who helped us or influenced our tour. First, Tree Fort Bikes from Ypsilanti had a lot to do with getting this tour off the ground by sponsoring us. They also put us in touch with some other great people like the Programs for Educating All Cyclists out of Ann Arbor. They teach people with disabilities to use cycling as a form of transportation for the goals of autonomy and sustainability. We rode about 10 miles with some riders from their program and we were very inspired by the work they do.

How have people responded to the idea of a bike tour?

We've had people send us notes and tell us they're inspired to start biking to work. We even had a couple fans join us for the last leg of the tour into Ypsilanti in Michigan. There are lots of questions and some of our fans think we're crazy, but it's gratifying when it seems to nudge people towards thinking outside the box with whatever they do.

It's not for everybody. Some folks think we're talking about motorcycles, when we mention a bike tour. But usually people respect the idea.

How far were you traveling, and what was the route?

We traveled over 450 miles in 10 days from Ann Arbor, Marshall, Kalamazoo, Three Rivers, Benton Harbor, South Haven, Fennville, Lansing, Howell and Ypsilanti. One big loop from east to west and back. And I kid you not, the winds came from the west when we went west and from the east when we went east. Except for the last two days. Tailwinds at the end of a tour are very gratifying.

Do you have any plans to do more tours by bike?

This is our second annual tour and we plan to do one every year. We might do more, but we hope to not do less. I see it as a discipline. Each time we do this tour, I slow down, I appreciate the time it takes to get to a place. I appreciate the hours of a day a little more. Even for 10 days, it simplifies me. I like that.

Any tips or suggestions for other people who want to do the same?

Get out there and ride. We planned a lot, but nothing gets you ready for an adventure like this except riding. Make sure you're bike and equipment is in good shape and take the plunge.

Do you cycle in your everyday life as well?

Yes. I put about 3,200 miles on my Xtracycle last year. That's not much for some cyclists, but a lot of that was grocery shopping or taking my daughter to school. When I'm home, I try to not drive as much as possible. For some things it's just not possible, but I can get my exercise and leave the car at home most of the time. I also do some recreational cycling, but the majority of my miles are for transportation.