Cyclists of all experience levels feel a great sense of accomplishment from completing long-distance bike rides. The prospect of a long-distance bike ride may seem a little daunting to you if you’re inexperienced in cycling. However, with a little strategy and planning, your long-distance biking adventure will be an experience you’ll remember with pride for a lifetime.
Picking a Route
There are a number of bike routes that have already been put together that can be used for your bike trip. The Adventure Cycling Association provides 30 pre-mapped routes across America. These routes provide you with options regarding the part of the country you want to travel in and the type of terrain you would like to experience.
Route options include a Pacific coast track that will take you from Washington to San Diego. If you are on the east coast, you might want to try a route from Maine to Florida. These two tracks and the other routes provided are quite long. However, you can always shorten your itinerary to fit your schedule and experience level.
Choosing the Right Bike
You will need to choose a bike that is comfortable for you if you plan on spending a great part of the day riding it. Do not rush your decision. You should try four or five bikes before you decide which one is the right height, allows you to position yourself at the perfect angle and provides you with the overall comfort you desire. The type of bike you choose will depend on the type of terrain you wish to travel. You should choose a road bike if the majority of your route is paved and in the city. A mountain bike is best if you want to travel a route that includes hilly terrain and off-road space. You should also make sure that your bike is outfitted with the safety accessories you need. A bike with light and reflectors will make sure vehicles traveling with you can see you.
What to Bring
Packing for a long-distance bike trip is an art in itself. You want to make sure you have everything you need without adding too much bulk and weight to your load. The clothes you pack should be lightweight, versatile and a good match for the weather you expect to encounter. Clothes specifically designed for cycling will make your journey a little easier. Cycling shoes will increase the efficiency at which you pedal and are a must. Also, do not forget your helmet for safety.
Take plenty of water and something to snack on while you’re cycling. You may need to take some cooking equipment, depending on how you plan to provide for food at mealtimes. You should learn a bit about bike repair before leaving on a long-distance bike trip and pack a few tools so that you can perform repairs if the need arises.
A long-distance bike ride is a fun and exciting adventure that will make you feel better about yourself once you’ve completed it. If you are preparing for your first adventure, you’ll learn a lot as you go. And with proper planning and preparation, you’ll be as ready as possible.
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