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LISA JAMES/PressJulian Redman will wear the same white pith helmet worn by Thomas Stevens, the first person to ride a bike across America in 1884, on his trip which follows Stevens path. Redman will be riding a custom built replica of the penny-farthing bicycle Stevens rode. The rest of Redman's clothing will be modern technical gear to protect him from the elements and help him travel light.

LISA JAMES/PressLocal adventurer Julian Redman stands with his penny-farthing bicycle on the bike path near his apartment off of Kathleen Ave. in Coeur d'Alene on Wednesday. Redman will be embarking on a cross-country trip Friday from San Francisco, following the path of Thomas Stevens, the first person to ride a bike across America in 1884. Redman's bicycle is a custom built replica of the bike Stevens rode.

LISA JAMES/PressMost of Julian Redman's custom built replica of a penny-farthing bicycle are also replicas, including the thin, hard seat that was common at the time that Thomas Stevens rode the same bike as the first person to ride a bike across America in 1884. Redman will be leaving Friday to follow Stevens route, wearing modern padded bike shorts to alleviate the shock from the airless tires.

LISA JAMES/PressLocal adventurer Julian Redman rides his penny-farthing bicycle on the bike path near his apartment off of Kathleen Ave. in Coeur d'Alene on Wednesday. Redman will be embarking on a cross-country trip Friday from San Francisco, following the path of Thomas Stevens, the first person to ride a bike across America in 1884. Redman's bicycle is a custom built replica of the bike Stevens rode.