Bike traveler from Washington state loses bicycle, gear on cross-country trek

See update: Sept. 4 — “Things improving for stranded bicycle traveler”

A cross-country bike traveler from North Bend, Washington, is stuck in Missouri after his bicycle and gear was stolen earlier this week.

Ty Robinson, 29, arrived in Hannibal on Monday and stopped to look around because he had always enjoyed the writings of Mark Twain, who grew up there.

Twain famously wrote: “Get a bicycle. You will not regret it. If you live.” That's true for Robinson as well, except the punchline should be: “If you can hang onto it.”

Departure

Robinson and two friends started their journey from North Bend back in July. They were headed to Virginia Beach by bicycle while they waited for the economy to improve so they could get back to work in the construction trade. Along the way, they separated so Robinson could stay with friends and family along the way. They planned to reunite in St. Louis.

As reported in the Hannibal Courier-Post, Robinson arrived in Hannibal on Monday. He later took the advice of some locals and napped at Nipper Park early Tuesday morning. When he woke up, his bike and gear had been stolen.

He told the reporter at the Hannibal Courier-Post that if hadn't been for Mark Twain, he wouldn't have even stopped.

“I'd of kept on going right across that bridge.”

Seeking help

The Courier-Post has taken up Robinson's cause. Newspaper editor Mary Lou Montgomery says anyone who can help him return on his cross-country trip should contact her at (573) 248-2750, or email: marylou.montgomery@courierpost.com .

The also is going to bat for Robinson. Brent Hugh recounted Robinson's plight at the MoBikeFed website and said he rides a 54cm touring model:

“We need to help this guy get a bike and some gear, stat. 

“Anyone with any ideas, please contact director@mobikefed.org .”

Robinson filed a police report and an insurance claim. Waiting for the results of the claim, Robinson is staying in a motel and his family is sending a care package to him. He told the newspaper:

“I don’t know how long I want to stay in town. I don’t have the best thoughts about it.”