Cycling holidays are the ideal way to see things which are often bypassed when in a car, such as stunning landscapes, historic buildings, out of the way restaurants and secluded waterfalls. Another benefit is that you keep fit and healthy, and biking is also environmentally friendly.
Planning a cycling holiday may be a little daunting at first but if you follow the guidelines your holiday will be so much more enjoyable.
• Map out your entire route and calculate how long you have and plan your daily routes accordingly.
• Check from which direction the prevailing winds come. Heading into the wind can slow you down considerably.
• If you plan to camp, ensure that there are no restrictions to setting up a tent and that the area is safe.
• Service your bicycle thoroughly before the trip. You will have quite a load in terms of luggage so ensure that your brakes can handle the extra weight. The best way to check is do a few trial rides with the bicycle fully laden some weeks before the holiday commences.
• Your luggage shouldn’t exceed 15 kilograms. Distribute the weight between two or four cycle bags. Cycling with a pack on your back is not advisable as it affects your balance.
• Ascertain what problems you may encounter and pack the necessary tools in your luggage. You should also include sun cream, first aid kit, rain-cape, insulating tape, string and water bottles.
Other important considerations include the following:
• Every member of the group MUST wear a helmet at all times during the trip.
• Ensure that each member of the group is able to do basic bicycle repairs such has fixing punctures, adjusting brakes or saddles etc.
• Calculating short breaks into your trip – the average cyclist cycles approx. 10 km an hour.
• Identify the weakest cyclist in the group and plan the length of each leg according to his or her pace.
• Never plan sections that are too long and make time to enjoy the unexpected on the way.
• Keep a check on your tyre pressure as you will have fewer punctures if the tyres are fully inflated.
• Layer your clothing so that you can remove layers as the weather changes but your rain cape should be packed where it is easily accessible.
• Heavy meals will make you sluggish so keep your food packs light and remember to drink lots of fluid at regular intervals.
• Most churches will allow you to use their amenities.
• Stretch before and after each day's ride. You will be grateful the following day.