5 tips for your first bike tour

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I never thought of seeing the world by bike. As a Londoner, I have equated cycling with clogged lanes and smoky circular reversals. After a recent trip, however, I found that cycling offers a unique view of the world.

There is freedom at first. Almost every environment can be reached by bike, from dry desert and rugged steppe to lush jungle and city landscapes. You can explore remote corners by bike that cannot be seen by car.

Secondly, there is the reality element. Cycling literally brings you closer to a country and its people and offers authentic sights and smells without a disinfectant glass filter.

Here are five tips that you should consider when planning your first big bike trip.

work on your endurance

How fit you have to be for a bike tour is difficult to assess. Some cyclists can drive more than 100 km (62 miles) in one day, while others feel discouraged by half of them.

Examine your travel schedule to determine how long and in which terrain you will drive every day. Then do some exercises in the weeks before the trip. If you (like me) do not have a bike or don't have enough space to practice, visit a few spinning courses or get fit in other ways.

If you can run 5 km (3 miles) on the flat floor in 30 minutes or 15 km (9 miles) without a break, you are probably fit enough to enjoy most common bike tours.

don't be discouraged

A positive attitude is invaluable and brings it further as a pure physical strength. When I was in Myanmar, a friend of the wheel ended a 83 km (52 ​​miles) long uphill ride, which ended far more experienced cyclists. It was not fitness or experience that they brought to their destination; Rather, it was an extraordinary mental determination.

alt = ““> good fuel and an appropriate hydration can make up the difference between a hard and a great journey

don't say that you cannot do it and do not let others intimidate you in your group. Although you should be honest about your skills: Remember that everyone was a beginner.

eat the right foods

Long -distance cycling tours burn many calories, so it is important that you keep your energy level high. Start with a carbohydrate breakfast and eat regular snacks all day long. Good options are bananas, whole grain bread, fruit, vegetables, student food and energy bars. The aim is to eat a lot of protein in the evening. Lean meat, fish, low -fat dairy products and legumes can help to recharge their muscles after a long day.

It is also important to remain hydrated. Experts argue about the correct amount of drinking, but 2 to 3 liters (8 to 12 cups) per day are a good guideline. Before driving, start with 500 ml (2 cups) and take two to three sips from your bottle every 20 to 30 minutes. Inexperienced drivers may find it easier to drink from a drinking bag.

Use grandma equipment

No matter how much you prepare yourself physically or harden mentally, it can come a time when your endurance subsides. If this happens: Stop, rest and drink a lot of water. On guided tours, an experienced guide forms the bottom so that they are never left behind.

alt = “> no fear of grandma equipment!

When your heart rate is stable, start again and are not afraid to use the highest gear - the so -called "Granny Gear" - when you drive uphill. It is better for your knees and muscles to turn your legs faster in a higher gear than grind in a low gear. Use a uniform pace that feels pleasant. Your endurance will increase in the course of the trip, so you will continue to target the finish line!

Bring

upholstery!

A long day in the saddle can make it sore and sweaty. The right bicycle equipment - especially a good couple of padded shorts - will make your journey more comfortable. Some experts swear by carrier pants that offer well -positioned upholstery that does not have to be adapted all day.

Tour operators usually provide helmets, water bottles and breakdown repairs (although it is always worth checking this first). Maybe you would also like to pack the following:

  • light bike jersey
  • Softshell or breathable jacket
  • bicycle gloves
  • sunscreen
  • sunglasses
  • wet wipes
  • sports socks
  • sports or bicycle shoes

The most important thing you should think about is that it is fun to see the world on two wheels! Prepare yourself, but don't think too much. Just climb into the saddle and get started!
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