Tip One: You can do it.
Belief in yourself is the number one thing that will allow you to tour by bike. If you want to do it and you back yourself, you can. You are the Little Engine Who Could “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can!”
Tip two: Travel light.
Trust me, you don’t need that extra pair of casual shoes. You don’t need that frying pan or that rad belt. You will need one change if clothes you feel human in (meaning don’t just bring crocs and shorts to wear) two sets of cycling clothes and minimal useful-only gear. If you can throw it out, throw it out. We thought we’d packed light, supremely light and yet we’ve already sent home two boxes worth if stuff. If something has a double use, throw out the other thing. Lighter is better.
Tip Three: All about riding with your touring partner or partners –
Listen to the advice the more experienced person gives you, they will be right 90% of the time. Tell someone when you’re in pain/upset/tired/want to stop, it is much better than having to spend three weeks holding up the trip because you blew up on the bike. When you get to your destination split up the jobs between you and your travelling buddy/buddies have a roster if need be.
Tip Four: If you can, get a proper set up on your bike.
Many bike shops do ‘Bike Fits’ to check everything from the hight of your seat post to the length of your stem. This means you will be able to ride with your whole body – riding strongly and remaining comfortable and strong. Of note, any bike can be used for touring (depending on the length and severity of the trip). You need to be comfortable on whichever bike you’re on, that’s the most important part. If you can get a touring bike, they hold the advantages of being much stronger and better balancing the extra weight you’re carrying – making riding a loaded bike more manageable.
Tip five: Train before you travel.
This involves increasing your fitness if you can and more importantly practising riding in all conditions: on unsurfaced roads, sand and rocky gravel. Try riding along the white line on the side of the road, maintaining your balance as long as possible. Ride in the rain, wind, bright sun and twilight. Allow yourself to adjust.
