Here at Beginner Cycling, we are always on the look out for topics that might be interesting to people who are learning about cycling. Today we have a guest article about bicycle touring that we thought would be of interest to our readers:
What is Bicycle Touring?
by Tom Oxby
Bicycle touring is a cycling vacation where you get to see the country close up with a little exercise along the way. People will find you more approachable on a bike so expect to meet more of the local citizens along the way. You can include as many or few sightseeing attractions as you wish as seeing the countryside is the main attraction.
Bicycle touring can either be a self-guided trip or organized trip arranged by a tour operator. Trips arranged by tour operators typically include your accommodation for 7 to 14 days, a guide, some meals, sometimes the bicycle itself and maybe a support vehicle. If on a guided bicycle tour check what is included in the package, the level of the accommodation (they range from 3 to 5 stars), the variety, length and difficulty of the terrain for the rides each day.
The main benefit of guided tours is that the routes are planned for you in the most popular destinations; there is support if you run into problems and you get to socialize with many like minded people. There are specialty tours such as those that trace part of the Tour de France route.
Self guided bicycle touring can either be solo or with a group of friends and can range in length from 3 days to 3 months. Cyclists stay in local hotels, bed and breakfasts or go self supported by carrying their own camping gear. Another option is for cyclists to rent a vacation home or villa for a week and go on daily trips.
Family bicycle touring are becoming more popular and many tour operators are now providing special departures to include the kids with lower average distances.
How far you cycle each day will depend on your fitness, the terrain and how much sightseeing you do along the way and can range from 50 to 150 km per day.
It is good to have special bicycle touring equipment but that is not necessary. At a very basic level you will require a bicycle with a rack to hold your panniers (bicycle bags), a lock, lights and a bike helmet. Quick dry cycling clothes would be preferred but are not essential. On my first European bicycle tour years ago I just wore a T-shorts and regular shorts. You will also require a map or guidebook.
Bicycle touring can be done in most countries but is particularly popular in the United States, Canada, Cuba and most Western European countries. You will also find many cyclists touring New Zealand and Vietnam on the other side of the world.
There are many long distance signed bicycle routes such as the East Coast Greenway from Maine to Florida in the U.S. and the Danube Bike Route in Europe covering several countries. They are usually a combination of bicycle paths and low traffic roads providing a safe route. Consider bicycle touring when making your next vacation plans.
Learn more about cycling vacations at the author's website My Bicycle Touring which offer route information, bicycle equipment and planning tips. You might also want to check out
Guided Bike Tours to help you get started.
We hope you find this guest post about bicycle vacations as helpful as we did. Be sure to take a look at the other articles on our blog for more information about cycling for beginners.
Other articles on cycling:
No comments:
Post a Comment