If you’re reading these lines, it probably means that the idea of a cycling trip appeals to you, and that you’d like to go on a cycling vacation. In fact, it’s becoming easier and easier to combine two of the world’s most consuming passions: the love of cycling and the love of travel. The proliferation of bike models available on the market means there’s a bike for every type of cycling trip. And it’s never been easier to take them with you anywhere in France or Europe… But traveling by bike can also be a daunting prospect. That’s why we’ve asked some of our experts to put together a series of tips for a worry-free cycling trip.
Tip 1: Book your accommodation in advance
Are you going on an unassisted trip and don’t know what to do with your bulky belongings? If you’re traveling from the same train station or airport, book your first and last night’s accommodation in the same establishment. When you make your reservation, kindly ask the owners if it would be possible to store your precious belongings while you’re away. This will enable you to drive away worry-free, lighter in body and mind. In our experience, small independent hotels are generally quite flexible and open to such requests! Of course, if you choose Evazio to organize your cycling trip, this kind of logistical constraint can also be taken care of by our teams.
Tip 2: Don’t forget to check your home’s equipment
As a touring cyclist, it’s essential to have a secure storage space for your bikes. This must be lockable, suitable, equipped with an alarm and a reliable surveillance system. Touring bikes are often expensive critters, and it would be unfortunate if they were to be stolen. The accommodations on the routes recommended by Evazio are “cyclo friendly”. They will be delighted to welcome you and provide any information you may need on bike storage and equipment.
Tip number 3: Search diligently for the ideal itinerary
Start researching your itineraries well in advance, so you know as much as possible about the routes you’ll be taking on your bike tour. The possibilities for bike travel are endless. That’s why our itineraries are perfectly calibrated to meet all your expectations, whatever your cycling profile. While some destinations enjoy a well-deserved reputation, there are a multitude of local trails and loops that offer new perspectives on well-known regions. Your research will also ensure that you’re not caught unprepared in the event of difficulties or vagaries of the weather. Some resources will give you an idea of the places most popular with locals. It might be worth consulting Google Earth or Street View to get an idea of what your cycling trip will be like, what kind of pavements to expect, what kind of roads and motorway traffic you’ll encounter… It will also enable you to locate stores where you can make necessary purchases or for pleasure.
Tip 4: Think about how to transport your mount
To make the most of your cycling vacation, it’s essential that your bike arrives safely. Depending on the mode of transport you use, you’ll need to pack your bike. Packaging materials such as bubble wrap offer useful protection for a reasonable weight. Think about it if you’re traveling by plane or train to reach the starting point of your bike tour. Dropout spacers and bottom bracket protectors are also essential protection.
Tip number 5: Spare parts that save your bike trip
Small parts, such as bottom bracket brackets, can be easily damaged. Remember to remove them during transport. Don’t forget to buy spare parts, as mechanical problems can happen. Evazio does, however, have a service procedure in place so that you can enjoy your cycling holiday with complete peace of mind. So be sure to pack spare parts that are easily accessible in your luggage: inner tubes, nuts and so on. Bear in mind that if you buy on the spot, you may be unpleasantly surprised by the prices charged in tourist areas. And don’t forget small items such as zip ties, tape and a bicycle pump. This kind of equipment can save the day!
Tip 6: Keep the essentials close at hand
Luggage problems are common when traveling, and can seriously disrupt your cycling vacation. With this in mind, pack your helmet, shoes, pedals and perhaps a set of gear in your hand luggage. If your bike or main luggage gets lost, at least you’ll have the essentials with you, which means you can rent a bike for a day or two and not miss out on cycling while you wait for your gear to arrive. By the same token, think practical in the way you divide up the equipment you’ll be taking with you on your bike tour.
Tip number 7: Don’t be late!
It’s a no-brainer, but if you have to lug a bike into a train station or airport, get there on time. It’s hard enough getting around with a massive bike bag or trunk, but if you’re flying, checking in often involves going through oversized baggage areas, which adds extra time and effort to getting through the terminal. So save yourself some stress by thinking ahead. If you’re travelling with the family – and some of our itineraries are designed to be as difficult as possible for a bike trip with children – organizational constraints can often mean wasting time. The bike trips themselves are designed to last a certain amount of time, but you need to be careful not to overload your schedule and planned activities.
Tip number 8: Remember to stay hydrated
Hydration is important in all circumstances. Of course, when you’re cycling or doing sport, it’s essential to have bottles of water and drink frequently. But when you’re traveling, especially by air, a few hours in a sealed, air-conditioned cabin can dehydrate you more than you think, even before you arrive in what is probably a hot climate. By topping up with water during the journey, you’ll arrive in better shape and in the best possible condition for your bike ride.
Tip number 9: Take your bike on the road
This is just one of the services Evazio can provide. You should know that a growing number of companies offer bike transfer services, some of which will collect your bike from you and deliver it to your destination in time for your arrival. Your bike will have to leave before you do, but this should make the journey a lot less stressful.
Tip number 10: Take a trial run
Before you embark on the great adventure of a bike tour, especially if you’re a beginner, organize a test ride, either on your own or with your future travel companions (to make sure you’re at the right pace together). A day’s ride, or two, will be more than enough to put your condition and equipment to the test. You’ll be able to start your ride from home, so you’ll be able to turn back in the event of any setbacks. Thanks to this session, you’ll be better prepared for your trip. It will enable you to adjust the load on your bike, adjust your panniers, optimize your position and prepare for any unpleasant surprises. And there’s no need to prepare as if you were about to take part in a major sporting event. After all, our tours offer several levels of difficulty, and Evazio can help you target the right level for your physical condition and constraints.
