While some people tend to think of cycling as a solitary activity, it’s actually a great way to spend time together, while creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a fan of intense racing, bike touring or simple strolls on roads or trails, one thing remains constant: what a joy it is to cycle!
Why and how to travel by bike with your partner?
So often, immersed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we tend to forget how important it is to set aside special moments with our loved ones. But even if we don’t often think about it when it comes to romantic outings, there’s a very simple way to do it: get on your bike. Setting off with your other half for a day’s expedition, or a trip lasting several days (or months), will not only keep you in shape, but also enable you to enjoy each other’s company in a fulfilling activity in the great outdoors. Riding side by side will allow you to share the highs and lows of a ride, and can only strengthen your bond. The most important aspect of a cycling trip is preparation. It’s important to analyze each person’s abilities, experience and level of fitness. This not only helps to optimize the itinerary and the equipment used, but also avoids any frustration that might prevent you from fully enjoying this moment for 2. If you’re an avid cyclist and you want to convert your novice lover to the joys of bike touring, you’ll tend to want to take him or her along your favorite trails or paths. However, what you might consider easy and fun can turn out to be a real ordeal for your partner, at the risk of demotivating him or her for good. For your first outings as a couple, plan your itinerary and choose one that’s not too long and doesn’t involve a lot of climbing. Also, why not include short breaks in a good restaurant or café? The adage “after effort comes comfort” has never been more justified. Of course, on all these points, you can be guided step by step by professionals in the choice of equipment (which is not an element to be neglected) and itinerary for your bike tour or trip.
Setting goals for your bike tour
As mentioned above, it’s important to be honest and clear-headed about your riding experience, fitness and skills (have you ever cycled long distances, do you prefer strolls or more athletic paces, are you comfortable enough to ride on unpaved terrain, such as dirt roads or mountain trails…). All these points are all the more important as they will determine the success of your cycling trip. By reminding each other of your strengths and limitations, you can work together to set realistic, achievable goals that will help you measure each other’s progress while you enjoy these special moments together as a couple. Cycling may seem easily accessible, but it requires a certain level of physical fitness. As the most experienced cyclist, the watchword is: patience! Let your partner set his own pace at the front, because he’ll never be able to keep up with you. Encourage each other and set yourselves little challenges adapted to your levels, so that you transcend yourselves. It’s obviously easier to motivate yourself and push yourself when you’re being pushed by someone you love and care about. If you think your level difference is really too great, don’t worry – you can still enjoy this activity together, just by making a few adjustments to your equipment.
Fun and pleasure
Enjoying cycling as a couple is a top priority. When you ride together, you coordinate your movements and move in the same direction, creating a bond that goes beyond the time spent in the saddle. Because going on a bike tour means surpassing yourself in sporting terms, while supporting the other in difficult moments. The spirit of mutual aid and solidarity that emanates naturally brings the couple closer together. It’s also about experiencing unique moments and situations that you’d never experience in your everyday life as a couple. It’s about creating shared experiences and interests by discovering or rediscovering places, monuments and landscapes. What do you prefer to do together? Explore? The challenge of a climb or the thrill of a descent? Just lying back in the wilderness for a picnic and a romantic siesta? Last but not least, of course, there’s no fun in a romantic bike ride without safety. It’s essential to be able to detect road hazards, but also to respect a certain number of rules, in town or out of town; day or night. Having trouble getting started? Why not enlist the help of a specialist travel agency and enjoy an unforgettable bike trip or tour with your loved one.
