LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – After nurturing a dream for over three decades, Steve Manchester of Chelsea has finally set off on an epic adventure—biking across the entire United States. On Tuesday, May 9, Manchester began his journey from Washington D.C., joining a group of fellow cycling enthusiasts for an expedition spanning 3,000 miles, with 700 of those miles traversing gravel roads.
A financial advisor by profession, Manchester described this endeavor as a “now or never” opportunity, committing to pedal his way coast to coast through a meticulously planned route. Starting from the nation’s capital, the group will travel to Pittsburgh before tracing the Ohio River to St. Louis. They will then cross the plains into Colorado, tackling the Rocky Mountains and pausing in Fort Collins. Continuing their westward journey, they plan to pass through the Grand Teton Mountain Range, Yellowstone, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, ultimately reaching the West Coast.
Accommodations for the group will primarily consist of camping, with occasional stays in hotels along the route. Manchester emphasized the significance of pursuing long-held dreams, noting, “I think everybody’s got these dreams inside of them, and so often we get into a someday mentality.”
Despite being Manchester’s longest bike trip to date, he is no stranger to extended cycling adventures. His passion for biking was sparked during his teenage years when a trip from Lansing to Mackinaw with his uncle ignited a lasting interest. Reflecting on his cycling journey, Manchester shared, “The more that I did that, the more that I found that I enjoyed it. So I ride farther and just think I wonder how far I could go. I started thinking it would be really cool to see the country.”
Over the years, Manchester engaged in various biking escapades, including trips within Michigan alongside his son, Thomas. However, the dream of biking from coast to coast remained dormant until recently. Manchester’s commitment was reignited by a surge in his biking passion, compelling him to take definitive action.
Manchester’s rigorous training regimen intensified over six weeks, encompassing daily rides lasting six to seven hours, covering distances exceeding 60 miles per day. Grateful for the unwavering support of his wife, Kim, who managed responsibilities on their family farm, Manchester expressed deep appreciation, acknowledging, “She has supported me not only this year with this adventure in mind but for 31 years.”
Local businesses played a crucial role in preparing Manchester for his ambitious journey. Sic Transit Bike store in Ann Arbor ensured his gear was in top condition, while Fit Mi customized his bike for optimal comfort. Aberdeen Bike in Chelsea and Tree Fort Bikes in Ypsilanti also contributed significantly to Manchester’s preparations.
Anticipating an enriching experience meeting diverse individuals along the way, Manchester eagerly awaits documenting his cross-country odyssey, poised to return to Michigan in late July with thousands of miles etched into his journey. “Every day is going to be different,” Manchester mused, “and I just think that’s going to be super cool to experience from the back of a bike.”