15 Tips for traveling by bicycle

13 December 2023

Desde nuestra experiencia como profesionales del Cicloturismo te planteamos 10 consejos básicos para que puedas disfrutar de un viaje en bicicleta con totales garantías.

Tips for traveling by bicycle

Traveling by bicycle allows you to enjoy the environment in freedom, to travel the world feeling the wind in your face and to go on roads off the beaten path. Cyclotourism is for those who like to know the places in a different and close way.

An increasing number of people are daring to dispense with the more conventional means of transport and start their journey on a bicycle. Throughout the world there are numerous routes that have been specially adapted for cyclists.

Image source: Mnn.com

Even if your next trip is to get to know Madrid, any bicycle trip, longer or shorter, needs prior preparation. The vehicle must be ready, the saddlebags and of course our physical condition.

If you are thinking of trying bicycle touring or you are already an expert, pay attention to these tips to prepare a bicycle trip in Madrid:

1. Organize your trip

Start preparing your trip a few weeks in advance and make lists of everything you need or have to organize. Adapt them to the peculiarities of your trip, the expected weather conditions and the destination or route you have chosen.

2. Adapt the distance to your level

The one who travels the most kilometers is not the most adventurous. Set a destination according to your capabilities, ride at your own pace and enjoy the experience. This is the best advice for preparing a bicycle trip.

3. Get the bike ready

Choose a bike that suits the needs of your trip and that has the following accessories: rear-view mirror, rear and front luggage rack, lights… And always carry spare parts and tools in case you need to make any repairs along the way.

4. Prepare the saddlebags

Keep in mind that the more weight you carry, the more you will have to drag the whole way. Try to balance the saddlebags by carrying less weight in the front ones and carrying more in the rear ones.

5. Learn basic mechanics

You don’t have to be an expert, but you should at least be able to patch a flat tire. After that, try to maintain your bike almost daily to reduce the possibility of breakdowns.

6. Explore the route

Whatever your destination, let yourself be surprised along the way. Dare to go off the beaten path, to improvise and to live new experiences. You will meet different places and new people.

7. Define a schedule

Try to define how many hours you will pedal each day and when you will do it. When it is summer and the sun is hot, it is best to go out early in the morning. Also keep in mind that it is not advisable to force too much during the first few days.

8. Eat and hydrate well

Take care of your body, it is the engine of your bike. Try to maintain a varied diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, salads and fruits. And, above all, drink water to prevent cramps.

9. Be cautious in the rain

Precipitation and wind are the main enemies of cyclists. Check your tires, brake shoes and try to stay on top of any marks left by cars on the wet asphalt. Also, keep in mind that rain makes it difficult for drivers to see, so wear bright colors and turn on your lights.

10. Maintain security measures

Always pedal in the same direction as the traffic and on the white line, do not exceed the speed on steep downhill, keep a safe distance if you are riding in a group and keep all your senses alert while riding.

With these tips to prepare for a bike trip you will be ready to hit the road and live one of the most exciting experiences of your life.

11. Protección Solar

Exploring the world and appreciating nature on two wheels is a great way to spend time, however, it is important to be aware of the harmful effects of the sun. To protect yourself from sunburn and dehydration, it is essential to take the necessary precautions before hitting the road. Put sunscreen on your face, arms and legs and wear appropriate clothing to protect you from the sun, with long-sleeved shirts, hats and sunglasses.

12. Documenta tu viaje

Select the most appropriate camera or journal for your trip and make sure you have all the necessary supplies. Make sure your devices are fully charged and that you have spare batteries and memory cards in case of emergency. Take your time to enjoy the moment. While it’s important to take snapshots of the highlights, it’s also important to capture the little details that make your trip unique, like the people you meet, the food you eat and the places you visit.

13. Prepárate físicamente

To get the most out of your trip, it is recommended that you exercise regularly before your adventure. This will help ensure that you can finish the trip comfortably. In addition, make sure that the route is suitable for your physical condition, take into account the climbs and slopes of the route.

14. Elige la bicicleta adecuada

A vital element of preparation is acquiring the right type of bicycle. A reliable and comfortable bike is indispensable for long distances and must include adequate storage capacity. Expensive equipment is not necessary to get started but be sure to use a road or mountain bike depending on the path of your adventure.

15. Haz cicloturismo

Look for the most interesting places, landscapes, monuments, restaurants, hotels and inns, you have to take them all into account to plan the tourism and enjoy the experience of cycling tourism.

Conclusión

Exploring the world in a relaxed and fun way is possible by bicycle. To get the most out of your trip, it is important to plan it well. The first step is to select the right route, taking into account the type of cycling and the desired duration.

Next, the bicycle must be properly adjusted, making sure that all parts are in good condition and that it includes the basic safety elements. Afterwards, it is necessary to manage the luggage, taking only the essentials but without forgetting the needs of comfort and health.

Finally, safety recommendations should be taken into account to ensure a safe trip and to make the most of the experience.

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