How to Plan a Bike Tour

Take the extra time to plot out your bike tour, and your journey down the road will be much more enjoyable.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Padded Bicycle Shorts
• Maps
• Travel Guides
• All-purpose Bike Tools
• Bike Pumps
• Bikes
• Gel-cushioned Bicycle Saddles
• Panniers
• Touring Bike

1. Get an updated road map, a topographic map and weather information for the area you intend to tour.

2. Decide how far you're comfortable riding each day, keeping in mind that you'll be riding for several consecutive days.

3. Decide whether you'll camp or stay in hotels, and make appropriate reservations.

4. Arrange for a friend to accompany you in a car if you don't intend to carry your gear.

5. Identify secondary and tertiary roads using a road map. Consult travel guides for scenic routes.

6. Call local transportation authorities for shoulder information, and avoid roads with gravel or no shoulders.

7. Check prevailing wind conditions, if any, and try not to plan a ride that keeps you heading into the wind.

8. Schedule rest days (days with fewer miles) after especially long rides.

9. Plan night stops at the base of hills rather than at the top and before entering areas with narrow roads or high traffic.

10. Identify stops for water, food and mechanical assistance, and plan accordingly.

Tips & Warnings

• Budget for unexpected mechanical or medical problems.

• Ask local bike shops for the best routes through complicated cities, or avoid cities altogether if you want to escape traffic.

• For longer trips, schedule 1 day off the bike for rest and sightseeing every week to 10 days.

• Scheduling too many hills on consecutive days will wear you down quickly. If possible, plan most of the uphill travel for the beginning of your trip.

• If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.