Besides a spirit of adventure, proper preparation is essential for a successful bike trip. Choosing the right bike, planning the route, and having the right gear play a crucial role. Nutrition, accommodation, and safety should also be considered. Here are concise answers to key topics.
Which bike is best for a bike tour?
It depends on the riding style and route. Road cyclists prefer a racing bike, while those carrying luggage opt for a sturdy touring bike. Gravel bikes are a good compromise for mixed terrain. Mounts for bags on the frame, handlebars, and seat post are important. Avoid backpacks. A bike fitting can improve comfort.
What types of bags are available?
Classic bike tours use rear panniers for clothes, front panniers for balance, and handlebar bags for small items. Bikepacking relies on frame and saddle bags. They should be waterproof, lightweight, and well-secured. They must not interfere with pedaling or block water bottles. Handlebar bags should not obstruct brake or gear levers.
What clothing should I bring?
Functional, lightweight clothing suitable for the weather. Less is more—wash regularly. Merino wool stays fresh longer and dries quickly. Test padded cycling shorts beforehand. Reflective gear improves safety at night. In Norway, high-visibility vests are mandatory in tunnels.
How to plan the route?
Long-distance cycling routes like EuroVelo or digital tools like Komoot and BikeMap make planning easier. These show road surfaces, elevation profiles, and allow custom adjustments.
How far should I ride each day?
It depends on fitness, terrain, weather, and luggage. Beginners start with 50 km per day, while experienced cyclists can cover 100-150 km. Regular breaks and rest days are essential.
How to eat while cycling?
Oats and fruit provide morning energy. Rice, pasta, or lentils are filling for lunch and dinner. Protein aids muscle recovery. Snacks like nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit help maintain blood sugar. Staying hydrated is crucial. Drink water.
Where to sleep?
Options range from wild camping to hotels. For hotels, check in advance if they have secure bike storage.
What to include in a first-aid kit?
Blister plasters, disinfectant, painkillers, stomach medicine, antihistamines, sunscreen, electrolytes, tweezers, and small scissors.
How to prepare?
Check the bike: brakes, gears, tires, and lights must be in top condition. A test ride with luggage helps. Learn basic repairs, as spare parts may be hard to find. Carry a spare derailleur hanger and brake pads.
What tools to bring?
A multitool, two inner tubes, a valve adapter, sturdy tire levers. On long trips, spare brake pads. CO₂ cartridges can quickly inflate tires without effort. Bring a compatible CO₂ inflator.
What are the risks?
Traffic is the biggest danger. In some countries, stray dogs may be aggressive—staying calm and riding on is usually best.
How to fly with a bike?
Bike shops often provide suitable boxes, sometimes for free. In towns with lots of travelling cyclists, reserve a box early.
Which shoes and pedals are best?
Clip-in pedals improve efficiency but require practice. MTB clip-in shoes allow comfortable walking.
What tires to use?
For rocky or thorny areas, reinforced puncture-resistant tires are best. A bike shop can help with advice.
What lights are ideal?
100-150 lumens for city riding, 1000-2000 lumens for dark roads and trails.
