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Thanks for stopping by mushypea.net. Mushypeas are squashed/mushed up green peas that are something of a food 'delicacy' in the UK. I had a Kona Kula which was mushypea green and it travelled all over the world with me - this site is named after her, mushypea. This site is dedicated to photographing and documenting the excitement of unsupported mountain biking/adventure cycling.
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[...] The Tien-Shan range was also menitoned. The book references some early explorer around 1880 made their way to Shambhala over this range which borders Russia, Kazahkstanm Mongolia and China. See the link for Tien-Shan. [...]
[...] I spent some time checking out the range of mountains to the North of Tibet, one possible route early Russians would have taken into Tibetan Plateau – check out the link: http://mushypea.net/blog/?page_id=35 [...]
I have the book buddy and it’s a great read!
I still laugh when I imagine you and your mates sitting thru Act 2 in a cinema! :)
You are one tough, badass motherfucker, my friend. Good luck and don’t die! :)
Hey Dave,
Best of luck with the trip. I’ve finished my 5 day cycle along the west coast of Ireland. God knows how you do these off road hard core treks. See you back in Sydney
Ivan
Thanks for the link. Mongolia, man, I am jealous! Very cool. Hope to catch up with you and your cycling self again someday.
Wow, awesome pic!
Tricky business! Go go go!!!
hey d….Wow your adventure started before you even left the ground… Maybe you should have just rode to Adelaide instead! :)
Ewen and Charlie never had problems like this, but then again they aren’t really hard core like you legends – doing the Knitting Circle MTBC proud.
I had a call from Tim and Dave last night, they made it to Port Augusta and were ready to start cycling this morning :-0
Well done guys…the adventure has started, you must be feeling great to be finally on the way!!!
Hi Guys
Great blog. Even though you had to wear a beanie I’m still envious of your experience.
Looking forward to seeing what and where your up too.
Take Care
Woodsy & Bindi
looks amazing already! Keep it up guys!
Hi Dave, nice to the see the first post from the road. I hope your still in such good spirits to be posing for photos in a week or two ;-) stay strong.
Nice pictures..
It looks amazing guys!!! i hope you’re having the most awesome time. Tim, touring suits you! C
Keep going Dave and Tim, were with you all the way
Mum and Dad xx
Great going guys. According to my calculations from your itinerary you are a couple days ahead of shedule……your killing it!!! :) Loving the blogs and photos.
Great effort guys!
Here’s to our own true outback heros!!!The trip looks amazing so far so cool. You seem to be doing really well whilst dealing with some mean heat! GO GUYS!!!!!
LOOKS Stunning!!! with you all the way xx
Fantastic pictures and road, mountains, sky looks quite welcoming! Keep the spirit high
Hi Dave
Looks like you’re having a ball! Must be exciting to be on the road. Looking forward to following the story.
Cheers
Jane
Looks all good boys, keep going strong pumping thoughs legs,I keep telling little Kate the wheels on the bike go round an round, round an round, round an round an Dave will be back next month.
Pics look great, have great one boys.
The Woodsys
So Have you found the Donga Yet Dave?
Congratulations guys on making the half way mark…onto Stage 2 now :)
Hey guys, half way point, well done. Does this mean it’s all down hill from here. Hey Dave did find my hat!!!
No comment seems worthy… what an experience. Keep it up.
Wow the blog updates are awesome. The photos are totally cool and you guys are doing a damn fine job!!. Hey Dave the rugged bushman look really suits you….I think your a born natural :)
well done guys! I check every day to check progress and looks a real adventure. Don’t know where you get the energy and strength but I’ll have a pint of what ever it is!
Brian
Dude! Love the stories! I hope you both are travelling well.
I need a favor… could you pick me up a stubbie holder from the most tiny, remote, forgotten pub you can find? I want to show it off to my mates and show them where I cycled in April 2009.
Take care bud!
From Quinny, Michelle and the kids.
Keep up the good work guys! Call the Support Team if you need any assistance….
Awesome effort in pulling through all that!
Hi, sounds like a tough journey, but you’re both doing really well!
Looks like your having fun too! I can’t believe you’re wearing your
best shirt, Dave. ;-)
Well done! Panda x
Hi Dave & Tim,
Enjoying reading the blog entries & the photos are good.
Radio stars now as well…..don’t go forgetting us little people :) LOVE the Southern Cross photo, its a winner!!
Your photo of night sky with Southern Cross is awesome! Feeling very ordinary in comparison sitting here in Sydney training room! You guys are an inspiration…
Dude! Tell Studio Mt Isa that the guys at the NOC say “G’day”. Oh and don’t worry, I checked for any open fault tickets – DCA Hill is sweet as. No need to feel guilty!
Happy trails,
Quinny.
Well done Dave and Tim, we are really enjoying this journey with you nboth.You have kept us so up to datewith your blog that we feel as though we are traveling right behind you.Wonderful photos great write ups each time well done. keep going. mum and dad.
Keep on Keeping on Guys!! You’ve got readers from around the Globe, enjoy reading the stories and adventures!! Can’t wait to read how everything turns out, good luck out there!
cheers,
Nathan Slider
Atlanta, GA – USA
DJ Jazzy Dave and Big Timmy T takin’ it to the masses live from Mt Isa! Keep up the good work fellas! Going Great Guns!
The photos are AMAZING…. so jealous!!
Hi Guys …. watching your daily updates with great interest… photos are awesome…keep ‘em coming! I’m currently nursing a badly sprained wrist (possible fracture) after coming off the KTM trail bike on a training day up in the Watigans..getting ready for my big outback trip in July! Can’t wait to catch up when you get back. cheers ..DG
I thought you were nuts, but it turns out it was possible to do it within the time. Only 450 k to go from Cloncurry! Soak up the sights as much as you can boys!
Hi Dave and Tim,
Peddle Power Legends !.
Great to see that you have made it so far and haven’t been chased by any camels/dingos/emus or crocs. Hope Good Friday has been a good friday and the remainder of the trip will be rock and muck free. Pics are fab. Happy Easter PPL’s.
Marg
Not far to go now. I hope you guys have extra comfy saddles, I can imagine how sore that must be getting at this stage. 100km riding before breakfast? You guys are legends!
Well done Dave and Tim
Photo of Southern Cross is fantastic, keep it up
all the best Mum Dad T
doing amazing!!! watching you every pedal.. inspiring me to do a crazy trip too, andy x
Wow! I am reading your daily blogs with great enthusiasm, love the narrative. I will never complain about the state of the roads around Lewisham ever again! Keep up the good work, hopefully catch up with you both in Nov/Dec. All the best Nige, Catherine & Ophelia
Hi Guys
Hope you are well. It was our pleasure having you in the studio!
Cheers
Stacey
Are we there yet?????????? Keep going lads its an awesome achievement. Not far to go know!!!!
He Dave,
grown many beards……ara in Tibetan! Photos looks great. Kms, keep counting eh!
Cheers..
Hey guys I feel like I’v been on a bit of a trip myself as I have been following you guys all the way and its been great!. You guys are doing such an amazing thing.I have been reading the comments and that Southern Cross photo is AWESOME!!!
I think you should get it out in print and I want to be your first customer!….Nice work :)
Hey guys – the trip is looking awesome! Hope you are both having the most fabulous time! I’m keeping the whole office up to date with how you are going. Keep the fotos coming and have a safe and fun rest of trip!
C
Dave you old dog, I finally got around to checking out your blog and the great ride. What a bloody brilliant adventure you’re having – I’m so envious. Keep up the pedalling!!!!!
Suerte!
Steve
Hey Guys you think you will be sad to finish? What are the rest of us to do without living through your adventure on the blog!!! My days won’t be the same and a little more boring when you finish!!
Well done Dave & Tim!
Wow, can’t believe you’ve nearly finished!
Am glad you both had a good Easter.
Panda
My image of the Aussie outback has been changed forever….Crocodile Dundee eat your heart out!
Dave and Tim I have to say that you are both truly outback legends. WELL DONE on such a great achievement for such a great cause.
Can’t wait to see the films and photos.. take care on your journey home Andy
Congratulations Dave and Tim, you have just completed an amazing journey, thanks for taking us with you through your blog. Can’t wait to hear all the details over a beer when you get home.
Well done guys…. good to know that you have both succeeded in your quest and proven the Mad Dogs theory (while also defying the perils of the outback, crocs snakes etc). It all looks amazing and sounds like you a good last leg to your adventure. Good pics and reading…. so whats next !! ?
Congratulations guys!! You must be stoked, we’ve been following the blog avidly and I’m very jealous of the trip!
Have a safe trip back to Sydders and hopefully we’ll see you there soon!!
J&S
Ay-Karumba!! What an epic! The Long Way Up!
Well done guys – hats off. Looking forward to catching up once ye get back.
Ferg
Well done both of you! I knew you would do it.
I can’t wait to see the video and the articles.
Panda
Cheers Dave. thank you both for the journey, we really enjoyed it. love mum and dad.
Congratulations guys on finishing your trip. Well done. Fantastic to meet you both and if ever up this way swing to say Hi again. Be great to catch up over a beer next time!!
Hey Guys, Great Job! What an inspiring journey. Fantastic job! My wife and I are palnning on cycling the Birsville Track in July and I was hoping we might be able to chat and get some tips? Her Grand Father & Grand Mother cycled it on a tandem back in the early ninties (when they were in their eighties!) and we going to do something similar. We’re in Sydney too and it’d be great if we could meet up for a beer (our shout) and a chat. Cheers, Spencer.
Well done Dave. Not been keeping tabs, but will endevour to spend Sunday looking through your journey.
Some awesome photos there guys. What a great way to remember your trip!
Nice work Dave, stunning shots. Can’t wait to see the video
more great award winning images. great eye. well done
Amazing as always Dave. Can’t wait for the feature length to add to our Mushypea Adventure DVD set!!
Very good. only thing is, you almost make it look too easy :) except that blister!
Good work though, some very nice shots. I’m nearly as green eyed as the animal behind that sign.
That’s awesome Dave!!! You’ve done an amazing job with it as always.
C
you better copyright that shot; everyone seems to love it!
O for awesome dude…..I will keep an eye out over here for it!!
How do I get a copy?! Can you post me one? SO COOL! Go Dave!
I just worked out how to reply to these things! I’ll flick you one stateside I!
Hey mate – I’d be interested to hear how this goes, I’ve been investigating bike/helmet mounted cams – does it come with a helmet mount as well?
Hi mate, yeah the one i saw comes with a helmet and handle bar mount too, the thing I can’t believe is it’s price – it’s insanely cheap. I just wrote to the distributors to ask some further questions and I’ll let you know the specs when I hear back.
Fantastic stuff to get that kind of coverage is amazing, but then again you sooooo deserve it. Maybe you really are a Photographer first then a Adventurer :)
Raced out and got the mag as soon as it hit the shops. Amazing article and great work….6 whole pages as well….way to go!!
well done! What a lovely picture too! Good for you! That’s a lot of exclamation marks in one comment…(!)
Thanks Alastair! For anyone interested in true adventure travel, hop on to Alastair’s site http://www.alastairhumphreys.com/
Hey guys
Is there any way i could contact you regarding the Gulf to Gulf ride??
Im looking at doing the same one and neeeeeeed info!!
Ive been up and down about it for a while but when i checked out your footage on the tube……….. im in!
my email is
Cheers coba, nice work!
*mushypea replied to this
Good for Ricoh, a brave move considering consumers believe more pixels = better photos. I would still prefer to capture two images myself and then blend them in PS. Fortunetly time is not factor for my landscape shots where I can spend hours processing my shots. This is a great feature for a ‘point and shoot’ where results need to be immediate.
Lee
Whoa dude, what’s this, another tidy little adventure. Look forward to reading the full report.
I don’t want to use the words jealous or envy, but whoops I already have!
And Mr Humphries commenting on your blog, lofty company indeed :)
Great work Dave…first fotos look great, can’t wait to see the hand picked selection from the 600+ (and the article of course!)
That’s brilliant Dave!!! Rock on!
yeah yeah… as proud as you are is as disappointed I am that its not an Aussie up there, like Sam Hill or Nathan Rennie etc
Still with 4 of the top 10 being Aussies we’re doing alright.
Gotta admit though it is VERY impressive at 35.
Pic’s look awesome, great action shots, looks like a real pro but then we already know that. Can see why you had a great time. MC
Intersting to see how it compares to the new HD Helmet Hero camera from GoPro. It shoots at a full 1080P and will retail for $439. Available late October.
Hi Mark, yeah it will be interesting to see. We are still waiting for them to come in but I’ll post as soon as I can. I looked at the HD Hero, very nice and has quite a following these days.
Hey Dave!
Richard T brought the Digital Photography mag into the NOC this morning. Top shots in there mate!
Oh, I got the rubber sleevie too! Now i’ll think back to my time spent at the Karumba Sunset Tavern every time I drink from it!
Cheers!
Quinny.
Keep on their arses for a copy of this one Dave! I’ve love to see it in print.
Congrats mate, keep up the good work…looking forward to reading about your next adventure.
Hey there:
i stumbled across the youtube footage of Gulf2Gulf and was amazed by the footage.
I’d LOVE a copy of the DVD.
What do I need to give you?
Money? – first born child?
Wayne.
Hi Wayne,
Thanks for the kind words, I’ll email you so I can get a copy over to you at Dirtworks. Loving the Dirtworks products this year btw!
Cheers,
Dave
Dear Dave,
The DVD and pictures of your gulf to gulf trip are great and I also enjoyed the piece in Australian Photography (or was it Digital Photography?). A friend and I are about to do a similar trip in July and I was wondering if you could send me a copy of the full version of the DVD you refer to on your site.
Also, I have a couple of technical questions>
1. What kind of wheels did you use
2. WHat kind of tyres did you use
3. Do you think it is possible to do the trip without using a bob trailer by using front and rear panniers?
Regards
Rob L
Hey Rob,
Thanks for the comments.
1. We used regular sized 26″ mtb wheels, we wanted to do the trip without specialist equipment to keep the price down and to be honest they worked just great! A note on rims though. I have Sun DS2-XC rims which are awesome for XC shredding on the weekend but not so good for Gulf2Gulf type trips. They can be a very difficult rim to work with when removing tyres, the beading is just so tight on the rim that it takes 2 bent levers and a litre of precious sweat to get the things off!
So, I rang up Favourite Cycles in Manly and got some advice from Leyton, he knows the kind of cycling I do and suggested a Mavic 317 would be a better choice. Removing the tyre should be pain free with these puppies. It sounds daft, but removing a tyre can be a relatively pain free or heart breaking exercise in 40 degree heat with no shade – rim choice is super important. I’m still learning all this on the job!
2. As for tyres, I used Hutchinson Scorpions which I found to be just the ticket, great for the hard pack we came across in the Strzelecki Desert and not bad at all when hitting deeper sand at 9 pm in the dark! Again, stock standard 26″ mountain bike stuff, nothing fancy here. We took a couple of spares as the rocks in the Sturt Stoney desert can be very sharp, I had to change my tyre once.
3. As for the Bob trailer. I see where you’re going on this one. Tim and I mulled over this question many times before making the best decision of the trip.
Water carrying capacity
I would say we could not have done the trip unsupported without the Bob. In fact, the first thing Tim said when we reached the end of the trip in Karumba was “Well done Bob“. We were carrying about 60 litres of water at one stage, 40 of which was in the Bob! The chances are you may well see traffic and the people of the outback are super friendly and will always offer water. But, you can’t count on it and I would advise planning for the worst. To give you an idea, we rolled in to Birdsville with about 5 litres of water spare each.
Taking the weight off the wheels
I realised the benefit of a trailer in Mongolia, when i didn’t have one! I loaded the bike up and it was so heavy I could hardly lift the back wheel, but I pressed on nonetheless. Two days later my spokes began to ping, see this video for what can go wrong with an overloaded back wheel. The pannier rack was fine, super strong Old Man Mountain Sherpas are pretty bomb proof but the wheel just couldn’t handle it. I’d go the Bob each time now. Adventure Cycling is a bit more demanding on the bike than Touring. Often we need to take all our own tools, spares, food, water to see us through many days if not weeks on our own. We therefore carry lots more and although panniers are great for sleeping bags, tents and clothing, the Bob is perfect for your heavier gear.
Something to bare in mind though. Depending on your frame, you may not be able to fit the Bob and Old Man Mountain racks as they both use a rear skewer system to connect to the bike.
I’ll email you so I can grab your postal address for the DVD, this will give you a better idea of the trailer use for sure.
Hope this helps Rob,
Dave
Hi David,
I would really like to see the full video and how our sport drinks helped you guys survived the adventure…
Just kidding, you know I dream about giving it a go myself and want to get as much info as possible.
thanks for sharing
Alex
Wow…thats awesome dude…
Did you hear back from them yet…
If ur successful in the next trip…everyone will love to air that…lol…
That’s fantastic good luck, I’m sure it will do really well.
Thanks guys! Fingers crossed!!
>>“we’re all a work in progress”
too right! you are an inspiration for the rest of us.
Oh Dave I think I said that a few times LOL! And have been looking at buying a bicycle ever since! It was great listening to your story the other night, I really enjoyed it, and the awesome images you shared, and immediately subscribed to your blog so I can stay up to date with the amazing adventure you’re about to embark on. Best of luck!
Many thanks Dave for coming along and talking to us all about the equipment you use and showing us some amazing photo’s. You certainly motivated us to get back out with our camera’s. Glenda
Thanks for inviting me along! If you need any advice on bike selection then just drop me a mail, Dave
Hi Dave. Thanks so much for taking the time to come along and inspire us all. Your shots are great and your adventurous spirit is infectious. It was good to meet you. I wish you all the best for your upcoming trip, and hope all the gadgets work! All the best, Meredith
Gadget testing is going well thanks Meredith – my new kerosene burner leaked in my bag and all my clothes smell of fuel – nice! Thanks again for a great night, Dave
Hi David
I saw your article in the Oct/Nov Digital magazine recently.
The night shot of the southern Cross and your campsite was great.
I would like to see more of your photos on your DVD
Thanks for the advice in the article
Tony
Thanks Tony, glad you liked the article – it seems a long time ago now :o)
I’ll email you for address details, cheers dave
Freeken good one. Dude, I am so excited just to hear about this journey, i was watching this dodgy 70’s musical movie the otehr day about a plane load of people stranded in Shamala, I think you should be in for a good ride!
Looking forward to following you. best wishes and have a ball!
Ben
Hey Dave,
We are looking at doing the gulf to gulf next year and would love a copy of the DVD – it looks awesome!
Thanks
Renee
Hi Guys.
Would love to see the DVD and shots. Please email directions on how to get my hands on a copy.
Regards
Andrew
Hi Dave,
shame i couldn’t talk to you anymore. All the best for the trip!!
Safe travels,
Eva
Oooo – how exciting! Best of luck Dave – Save Travels!!!
Great story, thanks for sharing. Sounds like a blast, if you are into all the hardship :) Safe travels!
Thanks Lee, yeah it was great fun and really enjoyed the time with Andy & Tim. Now it’s time to head off on my own. The bike is all ready, trailer sorted and bags packed. I have four – five days of heavy traffic to get to Dali, the next big city before getting off the beaten track to Lijiang.
Geat going Dave (and all). I am as jealous as all hell. See you when you get back.
Hey Jeff, hope the planning for your ‘Longer Walk’ is going well. I’m heading off to Lijiang in the north now – just waiting for my Burma visa to get approved (or not..)
Hope all is well in Beaudesert,
keep walking,
Dave
Fantastic post Dave!! What an amazing trip already in the first few weeks for you, hanging for the next chapter! :) Good luck and take care for your next leg.
Glad to have run into you and the other guys in Yunnan — enjoying the photos and the adventure! Will definitely consider one of the compact Ricoh cameras next trip…seems like a much better idea that lugging all the SLR gear around. Cheers!
Andy
Hi Andy! Thanks for posting – just been reading through yours and Evan’s site too – great work, top photos mate! Would you believe you guys are the only other cyclists I’ve bumped into on the road? Guessing the fall off the cliff wasn’t too bad – you’ll see Andy T on the phone to you in the you tube clip :o)
Take care man! Dave
Loving reading the crazy adventures! :-)
Hay mate – really wishing I was with you. Had another look at the Gulf2gulf and am feeling that bug again. I love the photo with the guy i the field \england lost!?’
From your lastest entry Rain, wet, cold – bring it on! – take care (somehow part of me is with you)
Tim
Tim, it dumped it down last night in Lugu. Never heard thunder or seen lighting like it! The road in to Lugu was demolished and is being rebuilt – the bike and I got thru though, had to port my gear for 150m. I think I’ve been lucky with the monsoon so far – looks like it might get rough now although the sun has just come out – yay!
A couple of times over the last days I had that “it’s all in your head” feeling! Wish you were here mate, speshly when the going gets tough.
Sheesh!! I am as jealous as hell.
I would love to be there with you and see all that countryside and meet those wonderful people.
Jeff
Good work! The road up the Litang river valley was always a mess – and I’d imagine it would be just terrible in the monsoon season. There’s an intersting monastery near Chabulang – Waerzhai – that I’d love to visit. I thought there was a road over from there to Daocheng via the Shuiluo river valley and Riwa (now confusingly also re-named Xiangelila). Anyway, when you get to Daochng say ‘hi’ to the nice guys at the Here Cafe. Look out for a Yank called Travis too, he’s doing some PhD research in tourism around the area.
Fantastic post. I love reading about all the people you are meeting, they sound amazing……keep on enjoying and living the dream.
Hi Dave
Fabulous blog, really good photos, bet the video will be good as well, love the shot of the road collapse! You are really doing well keep going. love mum and dad.
Sorry for the late replies. Thanks Michael, yeah the road from Chabu to Xiangelila starts for 50 km or so and then just runs out, just vanishes. I used the GPS ‘in anger’ for the first time at this point. I waited for an hour or so to see if anyone would come by on a motorbike but no. The GPS worked a charm, I began loading in Co-Ords on the fly direct from map to GPS. I was never a huge fan of GPS but I can now see they are part of your emergency kit these days. When there is no one around to ask – they are brilliant! I came across some logging villages and got my first glimpse of Jambeyang to the East, in Yading – well happy and mission accomplished for this part of the trip!
Big G&Steve, thanks for the comments! Sorry I can’t reply too quickly – they are all super appreciated. Got some crazy riding coming up now. The weather is improving, glorious sunshine today in Lijiang. Zhongdian in two days, then Deqin – China comes to and end :o(
Mum & Dad! Can’t wait to see you next year!
Hey Dave
Love hearing about all the imperfections that somehow add up to more than one can imagine or want for. ’shambhala is in your head’, ‘home is where the heart is’ – no shortage of opinions and theories – wonder if Chris McCandless had an opinion?
Something else for you to ponder…How, after 12 years of trekking, skiing and riding do I finally break bones while riding a 6-year-old’s bike? Must be an omen to check up on you more now.
Keep crank’n
Joseph Rock lived in Yuhu village, further on from Baisha (about 30 mins by bike).
There is a small museum in the village.
Xuan Ke suggested Zhongdian might be the Shangri-la referred to in the book, but later said that Lijiang also has some elements (canals, windy cobblestone lanes, the Jade Snow Dragon mountain, etc) of the real Shangri-la.
Getting from Lijiang to Shangri-la involves crossing the Yangtse river at some point. Good luck.
There’s more info about the area at
http://www.travelpod.com/members/happysheep
or
http://www.lijiangtravel.info
mate!,
still following every new episode and glad to see all going well. Photos look amazing! you will have quite a story to tell I’m sure
Good Luck Mate
Go Dave!
In a world where so many people replace things just because there’s a new model or something better available, I think there is something really satisfying about wearing something out. Its like the thing has fully served its purpose and you are living to the full! On the other hand, breaking stuff due to silly mistakes … !@#$$ :-)
Maybe you feel the same frustration about wearing stuff out especially when you can’t just buy a replacement down the local shop :-)
Anyway, I think that pair of pictures ‘ride’ – ‘wear stuff out’ really sums up what your about, just getting out there and living.
Inspirational!
Hi Dave we are keeping a close eye on what you are doing.you are having a wonderful experience, and you certainly know how to write an interesting article. You make us feel as though we are there with you. Keep going Dave, take care of youself. love mum
Hi Dave
Great to see and read what you are up too!
We hope you kept smiling and living the adventure.
By the way your photos are just getting better. Must be the camera!!
Take care
We are proud of you.
Woodsy & Bindi.
Currently located in Tassie.
Looking awesome Dave!!! Photos are amazing!
Keep travelling safe and having fun!
Go Dave!!!
Fantastic images mate been following the blogs and the journey. Stay safe chief and keep up the good work – epic!
Thanks everyone for your comments, sorry I can’t reply too quickly but they’re all really appreciated. Yeah Woodsy, the camera is the bomb – took some getting used to but we are definitely bonding now! Thanks Chris, Dan & Spliff for your comments. Dean, if there’s one thing the Chinese do very well, it’s not wasting stuff! I have never seen so much recycling – amazing. Adam, hope the leg gets better soon, am sure Chris McCandless found his own Shambhala in the end.
Tiger Leading Gorge pics are wicked…. looks like you have a bit of a climb on your hands for the next 160k. Hope you have stocked up on some extra brake pads though it all looks uphill from here.
Fantastic, look forward to each of your postings.. well done so far, with you all the way!
Hello David,
I am sitting next to David Gorton in the office. He showed us your website today and it’s so amazing!
The beautiful photos here remind me of the good times I had in Yunnan Province, especially Tiger Leaping Gorge near Lijiang & Meri Snow Mountain in Deqin!
Have a great trip & take care :)
Alice
Hey Alice, happy you’re enjoying the photos! If only my video editing were a patch on Mr Gorton’s!! Andy, glad you’re following – Burma’s shaping up! Hey Marg, hope all is well with you, yeah the climb was a challenge but the fantastic views and sunshine made it a dream. Thanks for the comments guys, really appreciate it!
Dave Mushy Pea !!!
WOW. You’re doing it !!! Awesome.
lala :)
Yo Lala! Yeah it’s all happening! Now I have a pilgrimage – Go West (life is peaceful there?)
On you Dave, its tough sitting behind a desk every day back in “civilization”, reading about your adventures from time to time. Keep it coming.
I heard they built a big wall near Deqin (Feilai Si?) to block the view of the mountain, then charged visitors something like 70RMB to go through to see it. Nice place – I hope to do the kora around Kawa Karpo some time.
Great story and I can recognize many things! Hope your travelling goes well!
Hi Dave,
Love you work!
I’m completing Gulf to Gulf next year, and would love a copy of DVD, can you please email detials.
Thanks to people like you for inspiring us all to achieve and discover life. Your blogs and photos are brilliant.
Cheers
Amanda
>>I have a feeling my journey will be as much an inward one as a physical ‘Journey to the West’.
you just figured this out how many months into this thing :-)
Thanks for the comment Ruben, great meeting you in “The La”. Yeah Michael, bit of a shame that, Felai Si. Not sure what they’re playing at – I have a feeling by the rtime you get there concrete and karaoke will be welcoming you in :-( G’day Pete, I had a flick through your photos, some amazing ones in there-the panoramics are wicked. Looks like you and Michael have been having a ball chasing The Doc! Dean, you know me, always was a bit slow to catch on!
Mate how are you? There is an old saying from an equally old ski movie producer….”When you get to a fork in the road, take it”…so it matters not that Shangri-La resides in Yunnan AND Sichuan…I expect you went to both and picked up bricks of tea leaves sewn into yak skin! Someone is going to mistake you for a modern day Tea Horse Trail porter which is not a bad deal – 130 bricks of tea gets you a rather short, stumpy but fast horse when you get to Tibet. And be on the lookout for Yartsa Gompo or chong cao. There’s alot to be said for a dead caterpillar these days. Happy trails. Adam
That sounds hysterical Dave! Am loving the picture of the dude doing a Starsky and Hutch manoeuver!
Best of luck for the journey west. Stay safe.
Nice work Dave, good luck in Burma. lucky you eh?? Are you heading to India next?
Hi Dave,
in spring 2009 I went by bike from Yanyuan to Muli town, then to Muli Dasi. My plan was to go to Yading and further to Litang.
From Muli Dasi I came to Chabu. After about 20-25 km a motocyclist told me (at least I understood so) next point to eat was 100 km ahead. With my 400 g raisins I gave up. But I will repet this tour. So my question to you is: In which month you made your trip?
And do you have a map of this region, or other wise could you give a description of the road between Chabu and Mengzi? That this road is terrible I know already, but what about infrastructure? Is there any possibilty to by something and how long you needed to go for the part from Chabu to Mengzi or Riwa?
It would be a great pleasure to me to hear something from you.
best regards
Ali (Albrecht Schulze)
G’day Ali, yeah the track is pretty bad – at the time I rode it (July-August) the track is subject to lots of land slides – not the ideal time to ride really – the other problem is cloud obscuring the beautiful mountain views. Maps are hard to come by but I did find a couple of good ones (allbeit without contours). I’ve sent my maps home now but I would be more than happy to photocopy and send to you. Last time I checked the tracks I took were not on Google Maps – but I do have GPS co-ords (again, on my HDD posted home).
When are you heading back?
Guessing that you have made it to India and hoping that your ‘cat lives’ have not run out with the authorities and border crossings.
Sounds like you are having fun. Stay outta gaol !
Hi Dave,
thanks a lot for your mail. My plan is to go in may 2011 into this region, so I hope the weather conditions are better than yours.
About maps or coords I would be very happy.
One more question: How many days did you need to come from Chabu to Mengzi (or Riwa, or Daocheng)?
Where ever you are, I wish you a good time and much success at all new adventures.
Best regards
Ali
Hey Dave!
Amazing blog! I guess you have to ride faster in order to catch all your appointments on time ;-).
Enjoy Bhutan!
Hey Chris, yeah was really funny! Speaking of funny, I found a copy of the B&W Lost Horizon DVD in Chinese, made me laugh!
Hey Dave,
Fantastic blog! Amazing pictures, which I’m sure are just teasers for us all :) Travel safe and enjoy Bhutan.
Glenda! You *have* to get your cameras to Bhutan! I can’t stop snapping!!
Wow, amazing and unbelievable. This redefines mountain biking.
So the indomitable Biker rides on :))
have a safe and fun filled journey that would take you to your Shambala…
regards
Deebang
hey Dave,
great to see photographs of people and places of the other side of the himalayas… :))
I am on the other side for them btw LOL
like to see more
kudos!!
WHAT? What was it?
Gaaaaahhhh… c’mon! How long until the next installment? C’mon!
This write up is so impressive.Keep it up.
C’mon dude! I want to know more…..what happens next?
PS – that shot of you with the candle is some epic self timer work! =D
Daaavid :) not fair, tell us more
Wow David, what an adventure, how do you convince these people to help you?? It sounds as though you have already found your shambhala
Keep on pedaling and look forward to seeing you
Mum & Dad!
oh my god !!! what ??????
Dave you’re a living legend. What an amazing adventure you have created. YOU ROCK !!!! Can’t wait to hear more…. :)
Hi guys thanks so much for the comments – I will deffo reply soon but am on the hop to beat the worst of the snows up at a remote monastery in the mountains on the Nepal China border – thanks so much for all the comments, glad you’re enjoying the adventure with me!
Could not be more curious. You should write a book when this is over, or just publich your journal. Whether you find it or not, it would make for a fantastic read
Wow Dave very jealous. Riding East Timor with you was a great experience but I bet Bhutan was unbelievable! I look forward to hearing the stories when/if you get back…
Keep going Dave. The boys at AAI are following intently.
WOW Daveo! we are waiting in anticipation for more! .. I knew you would love Sikkim, it’s spirit was close to my heart and maybe I felt something that I did not know was even there!
We are looking forward to you sharing your enlightenment. Stay Well.
Love Lou, Pete and Kirra xxx
Dave sorry to hear your sick, I am sure you are well run down, its been a long trip plus carrying & pushing your bike in the Annapurna trails, hope you are well soon. For you others I just met Dave in Kathmandu, I was mtn biking around Nepal, he was about to head out on the Annapurna trails. You have accomplished so much and gone so far, with Mustang next on the to do list.
Wow! What phenominal experiences you’ve had!
Amazing stuff.
Hi Victoria, Coming from you that’s a very cool comment! Take care and I’ll keep you updated!
G’day Steve, yep all better now thanks. Had a bit of a break from riding and am looking forward to the next part now – high up in the deserts of the Himalayas! Lovely to meet you and your family in KTM! Keep in touch, Dave
all sounds very exciting – watch every new post with anticipation
The adventures never stop, each entry isn’t near long enough, could read about your travels all day!!
should have just climbed down and crossed the river… I would have (yeah right!)
Where do I pre order the DVD and book?
Mr G! It will be a while mate but how about a cheeky slide show when I get back – I only have 20,000 photos! Haha, I’ll break ‘em down to a round 60 for ya! Hope all’s well mate, mp
HAHA! LOL I remember you on the Coast-to-Coast in England not wanting to step over that stream :o) But you’re right I kinda regret not having a bash at it now – mind you the river was about 50 metres wide! Getting soft in my old age I reckon. Thanks for the comment Spliff
Thanks Big G! You guys rock with your support!
Hi Dave,
I can hardly believe you are _still_ on this epic journey! Look forward to your return, but expect you could not even share 1% of your experience in the rest of your life. I want to know if all this mysticism is just making for good writing or is there more to it for you?
Hi Dean! I know, I can hardly believe it too! It’s been over a year now. The last leg is coming up now so I’ve been eating lots and lots-fattening up for a 5 week monster trek with the bike following a frozen river to a monastery where the word Shambhala was first ‘discovered’. May be here, in amongst the wilds of Kashmir I can put this project to bed? Thanks for the comments and we’ll have to catch up for a beer in a couple of months!
Dave
Hi Dave,
Wish you safe arrival on the last 550km.
What more can I say. You’ve outlasted just about anyone else who may have tried this journey and it seems your mind is still clear enough to try and assimilate all the gleanings gained on the trip.
I’ll keep an occasional watch on your progress – in the midst of my own more mundane journeys.
Wilf
Ok …. will stop complaining about the cold here. Sounds fascinating and hope you reach the monastery in the middle. What an amazing adventure !
Hi Wilfried,
Lovely to hear from you! I’m just wrapping up now, been an amazing end to the trip – couldn’t have wished for a better ending.
Hey M! Yep it was pretty chilly up on the pass – my thermarest kept letting air out so every 3hrs I got freezing at night!
Hi dave! How r u? You are really non stop-biker! Carry on, hope you have no stomach trouble that caused on the way to Tawang. Arunachal–Mayur KR Gogoi
Hi Mayur! Lovely to hear from you. Yes my stomach got better soon after I took those tablets your friend gave me. I looked pretty ill on the photos you sent me didn’t I? All better now and fighting fit. Hope you guys are still traveling!
Hi Dave, I’m reading this on august 3 in awe of your achievements and determination. Hope you’ve found that monastery and are resting well. Alan
It has been 16 years? Wow! it felt like it was not that long ago. Keep safe mate and look forward to all the fascinating photos.
Hi Dave,
what a Journey of a lifetime! we have been following your adventure and has lierally taken my breath away. we are praying for you, sending you some of this Abu Dhabi heat and hoping the bicuits keep you going. Stay well and strong dear friend Love Lou, Pete, Kirra and Baby Bump xx
Hey guys! Thanks for the comments – it’s lovely to see people are still following 15 months on!! Lou n Pete, congrats! Alan, yep it’s been epic and am looking forward to coming home very soon!
hi bro.good luck for your journey.i pray for you. very very good luck.
Hey Dave,
Exciting this trip is coming to an end, but we are still hanging out to hear the end…you keep leaving up on edge after each update :) Great job, this has been one epic adventure for you and us reading it!!
whoa mate – sounds a lot more spiritual and scary than the gulf2gulf, watch out for those yaks…
This trip looks amazing. The photos make me want to leave my desk, put a backpack on and go on an adventure. However, the commentary is keeping me on the edge of my seat so I may have to wait until I find out how this all pans out…good luck and keep up the good work.
Can’t believe you have done all this . . you always manage to come up with challenges one other another and I never get bored with your stories.
But so glad that you finish the whole trip all in one piece and let me know what’s your next big idea.
Well done Dave! An inspiration indeed!
super bro.good luck.
Hey Baba, thanks for your support – Nepal was awesome – I’ll never forget almost stepping on that huge python!
Thanks so much for your generosity in Hong Kong Wanda. Doing two (or was it three??) visa runs was a great excuse to catch up! Thanks Chrism are you in HKG again now?