Cycles of Change

Engineering practical systems and exploring the physical world.

The foundation of everything in this guide is kefir, not the flavored, pasteurized kefir sold in bottles at supermarkets, but living kefir made fresh every day from a small cluster of grains and whatever whole milk is available locally. Understanding kefir is where everything else begins. Kefir [...]
For many, the Erie Canal Trail, part of the expansive Empire State Trail, represents a familiar and accessible pathway through New York's rich history. Along the way, cyclists often journey through Rome, NY, visiting the Fort Stanwix National Monument, a site that stands as a testament to [...]
The dream of a life on the open road is a powerful one, a call to a simpler and more intentional way of being. It is the desire to measure our days by the rhythm of our own pedaling and the beauty of an ever-changing horizon. For the nomadic cyclist, the world is full of possibilities, a vast map [...]
The Call to a Deeper Journey To choose the path of the nomadic cyclist is to answer a call for a more profound way of living. It is a conscious decision to trade a life of accumulation for a life of experience. This philosophy extends far beyond the simple act of packing lightly; it is a form of [...]
A recumbent bicycle with a small front wheel and larger rear wheel makes a great base for an electric build. The 20-inch front wheel handles well in tight spaces. The 26-inch rear wheel rolls smoothly over rough roads. Adding an electric motor and a front-wheel generator turns this setup into [...]
The simple act of riding a bicycle represents a significant step toward achieving personal freedom and fostering a deeper connection with the self. This journey involves a process of discovery that strengthens the body while clarifying the mind and enriching the spirit. The bicycle serves as a [...]
The Workshop as a Place of Stillness The act of working on a bicycle can be a powerful form of meditation. The focused attention, the deliberate movements, the quiet satisfaction of bringing a machine into perfect harmony, all of these elements create a space for mindfulness. This is the heart of [...]
The identity of the road warrior is defined by a commitment to clear travel and the mastery of self-supported long distance trips. While often seen as a search for new things, the nomadic life represents a steady way to build mental strength and physical power. This path involves a simple way of [...]
Efficiency in human-powered transport depends on moving energy from the legs to the ground through a mechanical interface. Early bicycles used a direct-drive system where the pedals were attached to the front axle. This creation resulted in a massive problem for the rider because travel speed was [...]
A heavy-duty touring bicycle represents the pinnacle of mechanical self-reliance in an era of shifting infrastructure and systemic uncertainty. Unlike mass-produced recreational cycles, a true expedition machine is designed for the preservation of autonomy across thousands of miles. This strategic [...]
The City of Angels on Two Wheels Los Angeles is a city of endless discovery, a sprawling landscape of diverse neighborhoods and vibrant cultures. For the bicycle nomad, it offers a unique opportunity to experience this iconic city at a human pace. This guide will help you navigate the streets of LA [...]
A Tribe of Seekers In our modern world, where so much of life is lived through screens, a new kind of tribe is emerging. We are a global community of seekers, of adventurers, of people who long for a more authentic connection with the world and with each other. We come from all walks of life, [...]