Episode 75: Scott Sharick

Strokes to Spokes: Bicycle Touring Around the World

Have you ever dreamt of leaving everything behind to embark on an adventure of a lifetime? Scott Sharick did just that. After spending 30 years working in healthcare, Scott decided in 2015 to become what he calls “financially poor and experientially rich.” This decision led him to Cambodia, and eventually to a global bicycle adventure that would change his life forever.

In our latest episode of Seek Travel Ride, we delve into Scott’s incredible journey. It all began with a significant life event—a stroke. This health scare served as a wake-up call for Scott, prompting him to take his health seriously and turn to cycling as a means of recovery. Little did he know, this would be the start of a 65,000-kilometre journey across multiple continents.

From the bustling streets of Southeast Asia to the vast expanses of Australia and the diverse landscapes of the United States, Scott has pedalled through it all. He shares with us the highs and lows of his journey, from the joy of meeting new people and experiencing different cultures to the challenges of dealing with a broken bike and navigating through a global pandemic.

One of the most intriguing parts of Scott’s story is his experience in Bangladesh, where he was escorted by police throughout his stay. Initially, this made him uneasy, but it soon became clear that the authorities were keen on ensuring his safety. This unique experience added a layer of richness to his adventure, allowing him to interact with locals in ways he hadn’t anticipated.

Scott also talks about the importance of planning—or lack thereof. While he has a rough idea of his route, much of his journey is dictated by the unexpected. This spontaneity is what keeps the adventure alive for him. “Every day you wake up and you ride and it’s like, what’s going to happen today? Is it good? Is it bad? The only thing I know is it’s unknown,” Scott shares.

For those interested in the technical aspects of bicycle touring, Scott offers insights into his gear choices and the evolution of his equipment over the years. From carrying a full-size tripod and multiple hard drives to downsizing to more practical items, Scott’s experience is a testament to the learning curve that comes with long-term travel.

Scott’s journey is far from over. He is currently in the United States, tackling the ambitious goal of visiting all 51 national parks in the lower 48 states. This leg of his journey is filled with its own set of challenges and rewards, and I can’t wait to see where his adventure takes him next.

You can follow Scott via his Instagram account – @ScottSharick and also watch his videos on his YouTube Channel – Strokes to Spokes Bicycling Around the World 

The Seek Travel Ride podcast