Detours: Bikepacking, Ultra-Cycling & Adventures by Bike

What happens when you take a bike built for two and bring it to some of the most rugged, remote and challenging bikepacking in the world? You get tandemonium, and honestly, Shona and Rich Oldfield wouldn’t have it any other way. Shona and Rich live in Manchester, UK, where they run Keep Pedalling, a small but mighty bike shop dedicated to supplying help, advice, and bikes for adventures. Over the past decade, they’ve quietly become legends in the bikepack racing world — not for winning races, but for how they show up: almost always together, and usually on a tandem. It’s long, it’s heavy, and by most standards absolutely the “wrong” bike for these races — which, of course, makes it perfect for them. In this episode, we talk about what it’s actually like to race a tandem off-road: how they divide roles on the bike, what happens when one of them wants to sleep (and the other doesn’t), and why Rich refuses to use the brakes. They also share some wild hallucination stories, dog packing with their pup Olive, and how the tandem has become a symbol of their approach to life: good-humoured, stubborn, and quietly joyful. Shona and Rich remind us that these events are supposed to be fun, and that there’s no “right” way to do these things, just the way that works for you. As always, thanks to Albion Cycling for supporting the podcast this year.Follow Shona and Rich on Instagram: @keep_pedallingFollow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebbFollow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcastFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

“I was in the middle of nowhere in Albania on a road bike, and there was no way out—I had to go through the parkour. So I told my husband, ‘I can’t ride it, but I’m going to walk it.’ He rode ahead, and I just kept walking, waking him up every time I passed by. We spent 12 hours like that, but we made it out. And I said to myself, ‘That’s never going to happen again. I’m going to learn how to ride off-road." —Sherry CardonaAfter struggling through a brutal 70-kilometer off-road section in her first Transcontinental Race (TCR), Sherry Cardona made a promise to herself: she would learn to ride off-road. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s now taken on off-road bikepacking races like the Bohemian Border Bash, Badlands, and recently completed the Atlas Mountain Race, her first mountain bike ultra—a completely different challenge that tested her technical skills, race mindset, and ability to adapt.Sherry has quickly become a recognizable name in distance racing, not only for her impressive results—including winning TCR in a pair, twice—but for her ability to tell compelling stories about the highs, lows and realities of pushing limits on the bike through her YouTube channel, Buzzalong Cycling. In this episode, we dive into Sherry's ultra-cycling journey, from picking up a road bike for the first time at age 27, to racing TCR, Badlands, and now the Atlas Mountain Race. We talk about racing in a pair vs. solo, how she built confidence on technical terrain, and what it takes to push through when things aren’t going to plan.In this episode we talk about: Her transition from road ultras to gravel and mountain bike racingRacing in the Transcontinental Race in a pair with her husband: the challenges, teamwork, and life lessonsHow she built confidence on technical terrain (including a mountain bike instructor who thought she had "no hope")Atlas Mountain Race: expectations vs. reality, adapting when things got tough, and learning to ride mountain bike terrainSurviving on honey, omelets, and Moroccan teaHow music (and a little bit of Taylor Swift) helped her get through hard momentsHer approach to training, gear choices, and what she’d do differently for if she were to race AMR again Follow Sherry's adventures: Follow Sherry on Instagram @sherry.cyclingWatch her Atlas Mountain Race videoSubscribe to her podcast Buzzalong CyclingAs always, a huge thank you to Albion for supporting Detours this year.Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscyclingFollow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebbFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

"The Log Driver’s Waltz isn’t a race; it’s an invitation. An opportunity for anyone curious about bikepacking to show up, ride at their own pace, and share the experience. It brings people together—whether you’re pushing yourself against the clock or taking time to enjoy the landscape and small communities along the way.”That’s how Jen Adams and Eric Betteridge describe the Log Driver’s Waltz—a stunning 800-kilometer bikepacking loop weaving through Ontario’s Ottawa Valley and into Quebec. For them, it’s all about community, shared experience, and adventure at your own pace.In this episode, Jen and Eric share how decades of adventure together—17-day canoe trips, countless rides through their home region, and racing the Tour Divide—led them to create this unique route. The Log Driver’s Waltz isn’t just about the terrain (though with 75% unpaved roads, forested trails, and rugged paths, it’s no joke). It’s about inviting riders to show up, ride how they want, and share the experience.We also dive into what it’s like to ride as a couple, how they balance different rhythms on and off the bike, and why building an inclusive bikepacking community matters. Plus, Jen and Eric explain how the Log Driver's Waltz became part of the St. Lawrence Bikepacking Triple Crown and how they’ve intentionally created stepping stones—from accessible rallies to the full 800k loop—to help more people get into bikepacking.If you’ve ever been curious about lining up for a Grand Depart, wondered how to build confidence for your first bikepacking trip, or thought about what it takes to ride (and create) a route like this, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we talk about:The story behind the Log Driver’s Waltz and its ties to Canadian cultureHow decades of adventure—from canoe trips to the Tour Divide—shaped Jen and Eric’s approach to route buildingRiding as a couple: balancing different strengths, rhythms, and goals on the bikeThe creation of the St. Lawrence Bikepacking Triple Crown and fostering connections across the regionWhy community-building, safety, and accessibility are at the heart of the Log Driver’s WaltzHow the route offers something for everyone—from those chasing FKTs to riders seeking a leisurely multi-day adventureTips for tackling the route, including bike setups, resupply points, and managing its surprisingly punchy climbsDetails & Links for the Log Driver's Waltz2025 Grand Depart: August 23rd,8 AM, Almonte Hills, Ontario, CanadaSpring Rally: For those who want to experience the route in more digestible chunksLog Driver’s Waltz Official WebsiteLog Driver’s Waltz Tips & Planning Facebook GroupFollow Jen & Eric’s updates and rally details on social media @thelogdriverswaltzAs always, a huge thank you to Albion for supporting Detours this year. Follow along:Follow Detours on Instagram: @detourscyclingFollow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebbFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cycling

"I want to finish with a big smile on my face."That’s Mascha Wahlig’s goal for the 2025 Atlas Mountain Race. Last year, Mascha lined up at Atlas Mountain Race, her second-ever ultra-endurance bikepacking event. She was fast, pushing herself to the limit, but she was also overwhelmed. The intensity of the race, the sheer number of riders, and the pressure she put on herself—it all built up, culminating in a moment of panic and paralysis in the middle of the desert when her cleat broke.She eventually got it fixed (with a bit of super glue and grit), but mentally? The race left her drained. Even months later, she found herself experiencing panic on training rides in the dark, reliving the helplessness of that night in Morocco. Instead of pushing it down, she did the work. She sought help, developed strategies to manage fear and build mental strength, and slowly rebuilt her confidence. And it worked.Since Atlas, Mascha has gone on to win both the Hellenic Mountain Race and Sneak Peeks, proving to herself that mental performance is just as crucial as physical fitness in ultra-cycling and bikepacking. Now, she’s coming back to Atlas Mountain Race 2025, but this time, with a totally different mindset.She’s racing for herself—not for a number, not for a podium—but to ride with confidence, be present, and take in the experience.In this episode we talk about: The mental battles of ultra-cycling and bikepacking—panic, fear, and self-doubt. How Mascha built mental resilience and confidence after last year’s Atlas Mountain Race. What it takes to win ultra-endurance bikepacking races like Hellenic and Sneak Peeks. Strategies for handling stress and mental fatigue in long-distance racing.The power of self-compassion, managing expectations, and racing with a freer mind.How to prepare mentally and physically for events like Atlas Mountain Race.If you’ve ever doubted yourself, struggled with confidence in endurance sports, or felt overwhelmed by the sheer challenge of a long-distance race, this episode is for you.As always, thank you to Albion Cycling for supporting Detours this year. Links Follow Mascha on InstagramFollow Mel on Instagram Follow Detours on Instagram Dotwatch Atlas Mountain Race

In this episode, I chat with Marei Moldenhauer—a rising star in ultra-cycling and bikepacking. Marei balances a demanding career as a doctor while excelling in the world of endurance racing. Her recent accomplishments include winning the women’s race at Bright Midnight in Norway (where she also finished fourth overall!!!) and finishing second just two and a half hours behind the women’s winner at the Transcontinental Race (TCR) 2023.We discuss Marei’s entry pathway into ultra-cycling, from receiving her first steel bike as a gift from her brother to becoming a competitive bikepacker. She shares her training approach, how she’s preparing for the Atlas Mountain Race, and her love of climbing. Marei also opens up about the challenges she faces as a celiac athlete, her strategies for fueling during ultra-endurance events, and her unexpected preference for Katjes over Haribo gummy bears!Marei will be one of the many women racing this year's Atlas Mountain Race and I can't wait to see how she gets on.Thanks to Albion Cycling for supporting the podcast and my adventures this year!Follow Marei on Instagram: @marei.molFollow Mel on Instagram: @melwwebbFollow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcastFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cyclingDo you have a story from your own adventures you want to share with us?We’d love to feature your story on the podcast! Write us a short piece of 200–300 words describing a memorable adventure or experience related to bikepacking, ultra-cycling, or outdoor exploration. Whether it’s your first ultra-endurance race, an unforgettable moment with locals on the trail, a tough lesson learned in the wild, or a surprising detour that changed your journey, we want to hear about it.Stories don’t have to be epic—it could be something simple but meaningful, like discovering a hidden gem on your favourite route, overcoming a fear on the bike, or connecting with fellow riders in an unexpected way. Send your write-up to thedetourspodcast@gmail.com, and we’ll feature selected stories on future episodes!

We’ve got some big news! I am so so stoked to share that Detours is now presented by Albion Cycling. They’ve been fans of the show since day one and to have their support feels pretty darn cool.In this solo episode, I reflect on a transformative 2024—a year defined by big goals, unexpected detours and a ton of personal grown.Through listener questions, I share more about the ups and downs of racing, how I balance work, life, and ultra-endurance training and everything in between. I also share what I’m most excited about for the year ahead.I’d love your feedback on today’s episode — what did you think? What do you want to hear more of on solo episodes in the future?Do you have a story from your own adventures you want to share with us? Submit it to be featured in an upcoming episode! Email us at thedetourspodcast@gmail.comThis episode was brought to you by Albion, the very best cycling kit, designed to help you stay outside longer.Follow Mel on Instagram: @melwwwebbFollow Detours on Instagram: @detourspodcastFollow Albion on Instagram: @albion.cyclingDon't forget to subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode!

When I think of women in bikepacking, Alexandera Houchin is one of the first people that comes to mind. She’s raced the Tour Divide countless time and been a steadfast figure in encouraging more women to take on these big challenges. As an Indigenous woman and member of the Fond du Lac tribe, becoming a sponsored athlete, heck an athlete at all, was not necessarily a pathway she saw for herself growing up.She joins me on the podcast to share about her journey to the bike, and how she’s made a career of this niche sport. We discuss what keeps her returning to these races year after year, her experiences navigating body image as someone with a bigger body, and how she’s redefining what success looks like in this next chapter of her career. Alexandera shares incredible insights on community, representation, and how showing up with her full heart have shaped her path in bikepacking.Trigger Warning: We discuss topics related to body image and disordered eating between the 19:00 and 25:00 marks. If these are sensitive topics for you please feel free to skip this portion of the episode.To keep up with Alexandera’s adventures follow her on Instagram @alexanderahouchin and read her writing on her SubstackIn an effort to bring you even better episodes in 2025 please fill out our audience survey and share your honest feedback on the show — your support is so appreciated ❤️As always, if you loved this episode, please leave us a review, follow wherever you listen and share it with a friend. Even better you can make a one time pledge of your support and any funds raised go back into creating this show.A big thank you to Ben Crannell for mixing the audio for this episode.You can find us on Instagram @detourscycling and Mel @melwwebb

In this episode, Mel chats with Theo Kelsey-Verdecchia, ultra-endurance cyclist and creator of the Golden Horseshoe bikepacking route in Ontario. Theo shares how he designed this epic 1,600 km route to showcase Ontario’s hidden gems—from rugged singletrack to remote backcountry trails. He talks about racing vs. touring mindsets, balancing challenge with accessibility, and the joys of discovering unexpected resupply stops. Tune in for a conversation about route creation, adventure, and pushing personal limits.If you want to keep up with Theo's adventures and stayed up to date on his plans for the inaugural Golden Horseshoe event, follow him on Instagram In an effort to bring you even better episodes in 2025 please fill out our audience survey and share your honest feedback on the show. Thank you in advance for the time and help to grow this show ❤️As always, if you loved this episode please leave us a five star review, follow the show and share it with a friend. Even better, you can make a one time pledge of your support and any funds go back into creating this show.

In this episode, we chat with Leanne Bentley, an ultra-distance cyclist and creative living in the Netherlands. She is also the maker behind the bikepacking bags of Carrie Gere. Originally from the UK, Leanne shares her path from childhood cycling clubs to taking on the world of ultra-racing. She gives us a peek into her early cycling days with fun stories from car parks and grass track racing, and explains how the pandemic led her to discover bikepacking.Leanne opens up about the lessons from her first races, gear mishaps, and how she balances her cycling with running a creative business and designing custom bikepacking bags. To keep up with Leanne's adventures follow her on Instagram, as well as her latest bag developments at Carrie Gere. If you loved this episode please leave us a five star review and don't forget to share this episode with a friend. You can even go one step further and pledge your support on our Buy Me a Coffee.Thanks as always for listening and we'll see you next week.