Map stuff

A few weeks back, I ordered a set of maps from Adventure Cycling, which after a bit of research seems like the best source of information on the transamerica route that I'm hoping to ride this summer. Bought the full Transamerica set and a section of the Pacific coast route in case it makese sense to ride up the coast from Astoria to Seattle or Vancouver. Some people that I've talked with have suggested bringing along a book-style route guide as well for additional info on towns and such along the way, but I haven't gotten around to getting a guide book yet.

First impression of the map set is very good. They are printed on that nice plasticy map paper, so they're durable and mostly waterproof. "Mostly waterproof" meaning that it is possible to destroy them using water - a while back I found out that if you manage to get waterproof maps wet, freeze them, then try to unfold them, sometimes the ink seperates from the "paper" and you're a bit up the creek. Don't anticipate that being a problem this summer.

Interestingly, rather than printing the maps as one (or two) large images, these are done in small "panes" so that you can just fold out the relevant section and keep it in a handlebar map bag on the bike to navigate while you ride. The back side has general information on the area that the route goes through, a legend, and contact information for local resources. We'll see how accurate and usable they turn out to be this summer!

The map set came with addenda printed up on standard copier paper for a couple of the maps - nice touch! None of the issues mentioned there seem too huge, but I thought it was cool of adventure cycling to mention the changes upfront rather than relying on people looking up changes to the maps. There was also a small stack of postage paid postcards addressed to Adventure Cycling with a form on the back for sending in changes, suggestions, etc.

One suggestion if you're looking into buying this set of maps - join Adventure Cycling first! The maps are discounted if you're a member, and the difference between member and nonmember for a full set of Transamerica maps is $36. Membership costs:

$30 - Student (that's me!) / Senior Cyclist (60+)
$35 - Individual Membership
$45 - Family Membership
..... and up for Shop, Benefactor, and Lifetime memberships.