When a Rag Ended a Year of Cycling Dreams: How I Recovered from a Touring Disaster
Updated: June 2026 Derailleur destruction caused by a rag sucked into the drivetrain—proof that even a tiny oversight can bring down thousands of miles of planning. I trained for a year—twelve solid months of sweat, hills, and heart—for one ride that I hoped would complete my dream of cycling across the United States. I had already pedaled from Las Cruces to Lubbock and from there to Florida. All that remained was the western stretch: San Diego to Las Cruces . This tour was meant to be the final chapter of a journey years in the making. I didn’t take the challenge lightly. I logged over 6,500 miles in training , with a heavy focus on hill work, knowing the first two days would demand everything my legs had. Physically, I was ready. Mentally, I was locked in. Spiritually? Unshakable. The Start of the Tour: Strong, Steady, and Full of Purpose I drove the 1,100 miles to San Diego with anticipation and purpose. I rolled out on June 1st , feeling confident and free. In fact, I felt so g...
