While South Korea is most well known for it’s addictive Korean drama series or it’s K-pop music, a lesser well-known secret is that South Korea has an ever-growing generation of cyclist! South Korea is actually one of the best countries in the world to explore by bicycle, and almost no one knows, not even cyclists! Whether you are looking for a short route nearby Seoul, or an end to end South Korea country-wide path, they have both of them. South Korea has built massive cycling infrastructure in the past few decades, including a network of cross-country bike paths. You read that right, bike-only paths spanning the length of the country, a coastline, or across a scenic or challenging segment. These bike routes are a mix of well-maintained paths through parks and along rivers, quiet country trails, and small roads. The vast majority of the paths, barring mountain passes and remote areas, are car-free. This is one of the many reasons why South Korea should be added to your list of potential cycling destinations! Here is a guide on the 5 best cycling trails in South Korea coupled with things you should know about the country and top travelling tips. 1. The Four Rivers Trail This is one of the best paths in the world with a dedicated cycling highway with multiple lanes and made just for bikes. It is one of the most challenging trails, though, as it runs all the way from the north west corner of South Korea to the south east corner spanning almost 600 km. While cycling the 4-Ri0vers Paths, a must-see place is the Sangiu Bicycle Museum which is seemingly in the middle of nowhere. This fun and interactive museum covers the history, culture, and technology of the bicycle in its entirety. Most of the museum is in Korean, but exhibits are interactive enough to understand the main points and have a good time! Route You can start your trip from either Incheon or Seoul, and you definitely can’t miss the paths as it literally looks like a biking highway. From Incheon you can follow the path all the way down to the Busan in the south. Path Condition While most cycling paths are uphill and downhill, the 4-rivers is mostly a flat paved route which will not cause you much difficulty in terms of altitude. The only difficulty comes with the duration of the trip often taking weeks to complete. 4-Rivers Passbook The 4-Rivers Passbook is unique to this cycling trail. The path has red booths along the way so you can get a booklet stamped as you complete your journey. Once you’ve completed it you can send the booklet in and get a medal and certificate of completion. There are so many great trails in South Korea, but to get the truly best cycling experience, the 4-Rivers trail is a must. Not only the length of the trail but the quality of trails and the amazing scenery you’ll find along the way is just another reason we find this one of the best in the world. While in Seoul, you have got to try these great street foods that will fill your belly but won't hurt your pockets! 2. Han River Trail While most times biking trails are found outside of cities in the sprawling countryside, you can’t always get out of the city to enjoy it. That’s why it’s great when cities create biking paths for those who need a quick fix during the work week like the Han River trail. Route The Han River flows right through Seoul and one of the best bike paths in the city is along it. The paths run on both sides of the river almost the entire length of the city. You can start anywhere, but if you didn’t bring your own bike, you can easily rent one in Yeouido Park. This bike path is a great way to get to know the city if it’s your first time. Along the ride there are many things to see including the Seoul Marina, The National Assembly, Yeouido Park (Korean gardens) and the Saetgang Eco Park. Path Condition This is an easy path that is primarily all flat and paved so it’ll be an easy ride’. Weekends can get quite busy so just remember to be aware of your surroundings while biking. While the length of the paths are only 40km, riding on both sides doubles your ride to 80 km. Whether you’re local or a tourist looking to get a little exercise while in Seoul, the Han River trail is a perfect way to spend a free day while still seeing all that the city has to offer. 3. Jeju Bike Path While the mainland has many great paths, if you want to experience cycling on a beautiful island full of amazing beaches, then Jeju Island is definitely your cycling dream come true! Route The best starting point is in Jeju city as you can stock up on supplies and get well rested before you start your week-long journey around the island. Most cyclist go around the island counter-clockwise and pass by Hyeopjae beach, Songaksan Mountain, and Jeongbang Waterfall along the way. Path Condition This path is rated easy as it is primarily flat and there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way around the island. The path also has many side trips whether that be a beach or waterfall it’s definitely one of the more enjoyable rides in South Korea. Of course you could always pick one of the trails closer to Seoul, but Jeju cycling trail is a unique pick because you can go from one tourist destination to the next as you circle around this tropical island. 4. East Coast Cycling Route Similar to the 4 Rivers trail, the East Coast Cycling trail is a cross country trip that will take you about 14 days to complete spanning from one end of the country to the other. This is by far one of the coolest trails in South Korea because you never leave the coast. There are times where you have mountains on the right and the ocean on the right and it’s so peaceful the whole ride. Route The official starting point of this path is at the Unification Observatory at the northern tip of South Korea. Many people just start in Sokcho as it’s easier to get there. If you want to collect the official stamps then you’ll need to go to the Unification Observatory. From the Unification Observatory you’ll follow the trail all the way down the eastern coast through every port and city along the way until 720 km later you arrive in Busan. You will travel through both the North and South Gyeongsang provinces. Path Condition The path is well maintained and paved the whole way. You will pass through many seaside villages with ports that have plenty of fresh seafood and restaurants along the way. While much of the journey is quite flat, there are quite a few mountains that you will need to pass. The paths that are made for cyclists don’t have very steep climbs, but there may be hours spent climbing mountains that may tire you out. This is why we would still consider it a moderate course due to it’s length and mountain passes. This ultimate cross-country cycling trip is one of the best in the country and is great for those interested to learn more about South Korea’s landscape and rural village life. 5. Chilbongsan Trail This cycling trail isn’t for the weak hearted. If you are an avid cyclist then this rough cycling trail in South Korea will be a great challenge. The best part about this path is when you hit the peak, you can see the beauty of the South Korean countryside — all the way from Yangju to Seoul. Imagine that! Route This path starts in the Songnaedong area and winds around the mountain to end near Dongducheon. It’s just nearby a few other trails if you want to continue traveling around, but this one is considered the advanced section of the WangBangSan race course. The path is dirt and rocks and winds along the edge of a mountain. Path Condition The Chilbongsan trail is not for beginners. The trail can be straight up and straight down at some sections which can be very difficult for inexperienced riders. This path is meant to be a challenge and is designed only for those who don’t mind a rough ride. While this path may not be for everyone, adrenaline junkies will definitely enjoy a day bouncing around the hills of the Chilbongsan trail. This cycling trail isn’t for the weak hearted. If you are an avid cyclist then this rough cycling trail in South Korea will be a great challenge. The best part about this path is when you hit the peak, you can see the beauty of the South Korean countryside — all the way from Yangju to Seoul. Imagine that! Route This path starts in the Songnaedong area and winds around the mountain to end near Dongducheon. It’s just nearby a few other trails if you want to continue traveling around, but this one is considered the advanced section of the WangBangSan race course. The path is dirt and rocks and winds along the edge of a mountain. Path Condition The Chilbongsan trail is not for beginners. The trail can be straight up and straight down at some sections which can be very difficult for inexperienced riders. This path is meant to be a challenge and is designed only for those who don’t mind a rough ride. While this path may not be for everyone, adrenaline junkies will definitely enjoy a day bouncing around the hills of the Chilbongsan trail. Source: Bookmundi
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1. Safety First The most important aspect of traveling on your bike is to make sure you're as safe as possible at all times. Check your helmet before you leave and check that it fits snugly but comfortably and doesn't obstruct your view. Give your bike a once-over to see that all bolts are tightened, your brakes are working correctly and your bike changes gears smoothly. If you're going to be riding at night, install a light on your helmet and/or bike to let drivers and other cyclists know where you are. Review your planned trip before you hit the road. One of the keys to avoiding an accident is knowing your surroundings. If you know the route well you can also anticipate traffic. Brush up on the rules of the road as well so that you don't put yourself in a bad spot. Remember, you are much smaller and less powerful than the cars and trucks you may be sharing the road with. That makes proper signaling, turning and attentiveness all the more important. 2. Carry Your ID, Cell Phone and Money The age-old motto, "always be prepared" has particular application to cycling. You don't want to have an accident and you don't want to get stranded, but both unfortunate events can happen. If they do, you'll want to be able to call for help, so bring your cell phone. Many smart phones have GPS technology or the capability to access the Internet for a map. If there's been an accident, you can summon emergency help. It's also a good idea to pack identification and a debit card or small amount of cash. Money and an ID can be absolutely vital when you're in a tight spot. 3. Pack Snacks and Water Cycling takes a lot of energy and burns hundreds, if not thousands, of calories. If you've ever "hit the wall" on a bike then you know the feeling of being depleted and lethargic. Your legs turn to lead and your motivation wanes. To avoid the "bonk" effect, pack healthy, energy-packed snacks to keep you going. Options include bananas, fig bars, peanut butter or apples. Energy bars provide a handy combination of nutrients to propel you down the road. That's the food side of the equation, but what about hydration? Staying hydrated is even more important than fueling your body with healthy calories. If you become dehydrated, your blood will thicken, your heart rate will rise and you'll generally find that an otherwise fun ride can turn into a grueling slog. Plan to drink at regular intervals to keep problems at bay -- every 15 minutes is a good rule of thum. 4. Know How to Make Minor Repairs and Adjustments The sound of air escaping a tire is one of the worst sounds a cyclist will hear. Flat tires are also quite common, so you should know how to change one. This basic knowledge will save you time and money and ensure that your rides are more about actually riding and less about waiting on the side of the road for a friend to find you. But it's not just the tires you need to understand. Knowing how to make minor adjustments to your brakes will keep your bike riding smoothly and safely. In addition, replacing a slipped chain or tightening various bolts here and can be lifesavers. Make sure that you carry a spare tube, pump and tire levers and wrenches for the actual work. 5. Wear Proper Clothing for Your Trip It may sound like common sense but you'll want to consult the weather forecast before you head out. If you forget to wear a jacket when traveling by car, you may hardly notice the unpleasantness during stops to look around. But when you're exposed to the elements for hours at a time, you'll wish you'd been more observant of Mother Nature's plans. Once you know what's in store, you can pack your clothes accordingly. If you're looking at mostly warm and dry temperatures, then you're safe with a biking jersey or a similar lightweight top. But if your ride will last into the evening or night, pack a lightweight jacket you can easily slip on if needed. Keep in mind, however, that your body will heat up as you exert yourself on the bike and clothing that you don't use will have to be carried. Source: HowStuffWorks
Going for a ride is good for your heart and muscles, and it may improve how you walk, balance, and climb stairs. They say you never forget how to ride a bike, so maybe it's time to climb aboard a two- or three-wheeler and enjoy the health benefits of cycling. "It's socially oriented, it's fun, and it gets you outside and exercising," says Dr. Clare Safran-Norton, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital. Check out the main physical benefits. 1. It's easy on the joints. When you sit on a bike, you put your weight on a pair of bones in the pelvis called the ischial tuberosities, unlike walking, when you put your weight on your legs. "That makes it good for anyone with joint pain or age-related stiffness," says Dr. Safran-Norton. 2. Pushing pedals provides an aerobic workout. That's great for your heart, brain, and blood vessels. Aerobic exercise also triggers the release of endorphins, the body's feel-good chemicals—which may make you feel young at heart. 3. Cycling builds muscle. In the power phase of pedaling (the downstroke), you use the gluteus muscles in the buttocks, the quadriceps in the thighs, and the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles in the calves. In the recovery phase (backstroke, up-stroke, and overstroke), you use the hamstrings in the back of the thighs and the flexor muscles in the front of the hips. Cycling works other muscles, too. You use abdominal muscles to balance and stay upright, and you use your arm and shoulder muscles to hold the handlebars and steer. 4. It helps with everyday activities. "The benefits carry over to balance, walking, standing, endurance, and stair climbing," says Dr. Safran-Norton. 5. Pedaling builds bone. "Resistance activities, such as pushing pedals, pull on the muscles, and then the muscles pull on the bone, which increases bone density," says Dr. Safran-Norton. ------------------------------ Source: Havert Health Read more: Japan conjures images of traditional temples, cherry blossoms, bright lights and beautiful geisha. Indeed, Japan does offer these things, but after spending some time in the country, you’ll soon see much of this veneer fall away. If you want to see places in Japan that the average tourist never has the opportunity to see, jump on a bike and go! 1. Shimanami Kaido (Hiroshima—Ehime) Acknowledged by many cycle enthusiasts to be the most spectacular bike route in Japan, the Shimanami Kaido should be at the top of any bicycle lover’s list. This 70-kilometer (44-mile) course takes you from Hiroshima Prefecture to Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan’s fourth-largest island. If you’ve ever cycled in Japan, you already know there's very little room for cyclists on the road. The Shimanami Kaido, however, offers a dedicated network of roads and bridges solely for cyclists or pedestrians, crossing six smaller islands along the way. So feel free to take a break at any time and snap some pictures of the incredible views of Seto Inland Sea National Park or the Tatara Bridge, one of the world’s longest cable-stayed bridges. Don’t want to pack your own bicycle all the way to Japan? Then rent a bike from one of the 14 cycle rental terminals along the way. If you want to take your time, you can stay at one of the many campsites and inns en route, or if you’re a more experienced rider, you can cover the entire course in just a few hours. 2. Northern Kyushu—Usa to Beppu (Oita) If you’re the type to take the road less traveled, make your way down to Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan's four main islands. This route takes you from the charming city of Usa to the famous hot spring resort town of Beppu. Before leaving Usa, be sure to check out Usa shrine—it’s the head shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of archery and war, who's also identified with the deified form of Japan's legendary 15th emperor, Ojin. Established in the eighth century, it's considered by some to be the second-most important shrine in Japan after Ise Grand Shrine. After leaving Usa, you have about 40 kilometers (25 miles) of scenic riding before you get to Beppu. Be sure to arrive early enough to thoroughly enjoy the city. You’ll want to first check out the Eight Hells of Beppu (stunning hot springs for viewing only), then relax in one of the numerous hot water baths, sand baths or steam baths that the city offers. 3. Tour De Noto (Ishikawa—Toyama) If you’re looking to really indulge in Japan’s rural side, the Tour De Noto is a great way to start. Beginning in Kanazawa City and finishing in Toyama City, this route takes you around one of Japan’s largest peninsulas: the Noto Hanto (Noto Peninsula). You’ll be able to enjoy Ishikawa Prefecture’s beautiful seascapes and countryside during the entirety of this trip. Be aware: this course is not for the faint of heart. Experienced riders can expect to dedicate three to four full days to finish all 400 kilometers (249 miles) of the ride. If you prefer to ride in a large group, you can take part in the annual Tour De Noto every September, which involves hundreds—if not thousands—of riders. Source: All About Japan
1. The Friendship Highway (China) Whether or not the 800 kilometers (500 miles) between the Tibetan city of Lhasa and the Nepalese border is the planet's most beautiful ride depends on your idea enjoyment of sometimes bleak high-altitude vistas. What's in little doubt is that it's the highest. The route includes three road passes of more than 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), with a lung-bursting maximum of 5,220 meters over the Gyatso La mountain pass, where the reward on a clear day is a distant view of Everest. This, it goes without saying, isn't for everyone. Conditions can be testing and the distance between towns necessitates careful planning. Plus, the sensitive political situation in Tibet means individual travel can be tricky at times. For the sufficiently committed this remains one of the globe's true adventures, from the religious and cultural wonders of Lhasa and Gyantse to the prayer flag-draped peak of the Gampa La mountain pass, with the vast, turquoise lake, Yamdrok Yumtso, shining in the valley below. If that's not enough, the route ends with possibly the world's longest descent, a precipitous 3,500-meter drop off the edge of the Tibetan plateau along muddy hairpins. 2. La Ruta de los Conquistadores (Costa Rica) Shorter but arguably no less arduous than the Friendship Highway is this 270-kilometer off-road ride across Costa Rica. From the Pacific to Caribbean coasts, this one takes in mud paths, rainforest, coffee plantations, even an extinct volcano. It can be completed in three days each November as part of the annual mountain bike race from which the ride takes its name. Those in less of a rush can spend as long as they like, whenever they like, tracing the route of the 16th-century Spanish conqueror Juan de Cavallon, the chief conquistador of the title. Costa Rica has a vast range of natural wonder packed into an area roughly the size of Switzerland, around a quarter of it national park -- La Ruta delivers a decent taste of this. Beginning in the surf resort of Jaco Beach, the route soon turns onto energy-sapping red mud dirt roads, climbing up. And up and up -- the official La Ruta course includes about 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) of climbing on the first day alone. Skirting the capital, San Jose, it passes near the extinct peak volcanic peak of Irazu and down again to mangrove forests and white sand beaches. The traditional end to the trip is a dip in the Caribbean. Riding in is optional. 3. North Sea Cycle Route (Europe) The NSCR, which also goes by the slightly less evocative name of Euro Velo Route 12, is a Euroskeptic's nightmare -- an EU-funded epic across eight countries that claims to be the longest signposted cycle route in the world. Covering almost 6,000 kilometers (3,728 miles), it runs from the northern edge of Scotland's Shetland Islands along the coasts of Britain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. It hopefully goes without saying that there's no need for anyone to attempt the whole thing. Inevitably, it also goes without saying that a surprising number of people do, mainly over a series of summers -- this is a route where the warmest spot is probably somewhere near Ostend on the coast of Belgium, so it's really not one for winter. The more intrepid riders fill the official NSCR website with arcane tips about acquiring krone when crossing into Denmark and the best way to get themselves and their bikes over the sea crossings. 4. The Shimanami Kaido (Japan) At a shade more than 64 kilometers (40 miles) this is perhaps the only route on this list on which riders could reasonably consider taking their kids the full length without worrying about a visit from social services. Completely separated from the road, it snakes across a series of small, wonderfully scenic islands in Hiroshima prefecture, in the west of the country. Japan might be more popularly associated with the car rather than the bike, but cycling is common here and the Shimanami Kaido shows how two and four wheels can happily coexist. The segregated cycleway, which also has a lane for pedestrians, for the most part runs alongside the road, though there are diversions, not least the longer, more gentle and thus more leg-friendly slopes up to the high road bridges. Bikes can be hired at a series of points along the path. Some people complete the trip in a day, but many dawdle to gaze at the beautiful vistas along the Seto Inland Sea. This is a route for gentle meandering, not teeth-gritted grinding. Yes, there are tolls on the bridges for cyclists, but these are pretty small, more necessitating a pocket of change than a bank loan. 5. Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (North America) Want big? This is big. An off-road touring route from Canada's Alberta all the way to New Mexico. If the 4,400-kilometer (2,734 miles) length (as detailed on the Adventure Cycling website) isn't enough to start palpitations, how about a combined 61,000 meters (you don't even want to know what that is in feet) of climbing? Yes, that's right, almost seven times the height of Everest -- from sea level, that is, not base camp. It's also often extremely remote, and thus largely the preserve of wiry, wind-burnished men and women on much-traveled mountain bikes towing trailers filled with anti-bear spray, titanium camping spoons and nuclear fusion nano-stoves. It's undeniably spectacular, taking in everything from woodland to mountains (did we forget to mention the Colorado Rockies?) and the wastelands of the Great Basin. Potential companions could include grizzlies, moose, mountain lions and eagles. If that's not enough to think about, weather conditions mean the trip is only really feasible from June to September, and even then flash rains can make sections impassably muddy for weeks at a time. 6. Munda Biddi Trail (Australia) Another epic, and this time in one of the more cutoff places in the world: Western Australia. At least with the Munda Biddi the route organizers might actually be on the rider's side. Slightly. A vastly ambitious, recently completed 960-plus kilometer (596 miles) off-road route through the forested wilderness -- Munda Biddi means "path through the forest" in the local indigenous language -- it runs from near the state capital, Perth, to Albany in the far southwest. The less ambitious can tackle smaller, less strenuous sections of just a day or more, and the official website gives updates on sometimes muddy trail conditions. Anyone planning the full slog would be wise to avoid the full heat of summer, and come prepared. That said, between towns there are designated campsites every 30 or so miles, with sleeping huts and water supplies. 7. The South Downs Way (England)
File under "deceptively tricky." This 160-kilometer route (99 miles) is hardly alpine in outlook, crossing some of the most stereotypically lush and rolling English countryside you can imagine. But all those small ups and down add up. Riders tackling the entire route commit themselves to almost 4,300 meters (14,107 feet) of uphill pedaling. A much tramped walking route for thousands of years and now a fully signposted hiking trail, the South Downs Way meanders from the precipitous cliffs of Beachy Head to historic Winchester, virtually all off road and much of it on ancient chalky bridleways. Open to cyclists, walkers and horse riders, those on two wheels generally allow two or three days for the trip, and there are plenty of absurdly picturesque villages en route with pubs and guesthouses. Some hardy souls tackle the entire thing in a day, but there's an argument that pedaling furiously through some of England's most glorious vistas kind of misses the point. 1. It minimizes your life for the essentials Life on the bike is very simple. Suddenly I no longer have thousand things in my head, but only three main priorities: drinking, eating and sleeping. It comes down to the basic needs of life. That is also the real adventure at the same time. The civilization stress, we have made on our own, falls from me and I'm getting quieter. Concentrating on the essentials is incredibly good, I feel liberated from unimportant things and can think about the important things in life. I'm outside the normal routine. This gives me freedom in my head and makes me happy. At the same time I live very minimal. I don't stand for 15 minutes in front of the wardrobe to think about what I'll wear for the day. This also goes for food. I eat what I have and I don't have much choice. I've been living minimized and reduced since one year (and that can sometimes be annoying too. Why this point is also a contra for me, can be read below.) 2. You're free and flexible When I sit on the bike I sometimes feel a bit like a snail. Not because of the speed, but because I have my house with me. I am free and flexible, can pause at any time to eat or unpack my Bialetti on the summit of the pass, start the stove to enjoy a coffee with breathtaking views. I'm not dependent on bus or train, can decide for myself when and where to go. I come to places I would never have seen. My bike gives me the possibility of don't-need-to-plan, that leaves space for adventure. Because adventures don't come around the corner during a planned hotel-vacation. 3. You're the whole day in nature The wind blows around my nose. I listen to the birds chirping. I see howler monkeys hanging directly above me in the tree, whales swimming along the coast, a bear waving at us and many more animals. Smelling the blackberries, I'm stopping to fill my stomach. In the car, bus or train I would have missed all of this and much more. 4. It changes you On a longer tour you get the chance to have time for yourself and to find yourself. This doesn't happen from today to tomorrow and also not during a two-week pool vacation. I'm no longer in my normal environment, I'm freed from roles I have to perform and now I'm having time and inner peace to think and reflect. It changes you. You have the chance to get to know you differently. I actually had 'aha moments' in which I had to look inside myself and suddenly had to laugh. Likewise, I get to know my own limits, can react better to specific situations, collect knowledge of human nature, gain patience and strength of character. I learn so many new things. For example, how I patch a flat tire. Likewise, you will find your own rhythm and learn about your body. This applies both to the daily cycling as well as to the travel rhythm in general. At the beginning I often cycled too fast and with too much force up the hills, which then paid off negatively mostly in the afternoon. I had significantly less energy then. Thus, over the course of time, I have learned how to assess my reserves. That is the same with cycling on passes for days. I know when I have to end for the day, so that i can still have power for the next day. 5. It's cheap Compared to other travel forms, biketouring is one of the most affordable. Some long-term cyclists spend 4000 Dollars per year or less. I spend about 350-450 Dollars a month. I have described this here more detailed. This is due to two reasons: I have no transport costs. Also you have the freedom of (wild)camping, which makes the whole thing very cheap and you can also cook for yourself. 6. You'll be a slow traveller The speed is just right: it is not too fast and not too slow. The bike gives me the oppurtunity to get forward and to be independent. At the same time, I have the freedom to get into remote areas (compared to traveling by foot where you sometimes get stuck). Cycling through small villages, which the normal bus traveler only sees through the window. I can choose less busy roads. There are no other tourists and the people you meet are curious, open and invite you often. This way you get to know a country more authentic, not just from the normal touristic perspective. The locals show you 'their' country, show you the local sights, invite you to festivals, cook local food, take you to their work as a teacher, so you can get to know the children of the village school and exchange smiles, etc. I don't just check the boxes on a to-see-list, but get to know a country, its people and culture. "Traveling or being traveled?" Stefan Zweig asked, and it was him who already wrote about the concept of 'slow traveling. It fits into the same division as the current awareness trend, which is about slowness and enjoyment. Short form: The path is the goal. 7. It's ecologically Explains itself. 8. You'll be a storyteller I could tell hundreds of stories. Because of getting to know so many people I'm experiencing a lot. The travel form itself invites many to ask questions. And the best thing about it is, that all these stories make me rich. Rich in memories, on which I think with laughter or smirk. Nobody can ever take them away and they have an unspeakable value for me. 9. It'll change the way you see the world Okay, this applies for traveling in general, but bike touring does this even more intensively. People face you with curiosity and openness. The bike acts as a magnet: many start a conversation, ask how far you go, etc. Sometimes these encounters end in invitations (see point 6). This also has to do with the fact that a bike tourist looks vulnerable. Randomness happens often: someone stops by the car, opens the window, gives us a bag of shrimps, closes the window and drives away. Without having a chance to understand what actually happened or being able to say thank you. Since our daily news consists mainly of horrible reports, you can sometimes loses sight of reality. You'll learn to see the good in mankind again. I met so many great and heartful people, was invited to so many things and I was helped so often. This makes me happy and grateful. Also, distances suddenly appear different and relative. It changes your thinking when it comes to that. 80 km by car seems nothing, on the bike however a mountainpass and 40 ° C feels quite different. It will be even more severe when you push your bike through mud. Even one kilometer is a challenge then. 10. The best form of traveling for photographers As a person who hobbies photography I have noticed that the flexibility of cycling offers special advantages. It gives me the opportunity to stop everywhere and find the perfect perspective. Perspectives changing during the riding and behind each curve hides a new great view. (Good - yes okay - the photo equipment including laptop and tripod makes the bike definitely not lighter.) 11. The community of biketourers is incredible Already before my departure, I was fascinated of the bike touring community. I have texted with many other cyclists or even called without ever having seen them. I was helped during the preparations and I can write to others and ask for route tips. The same thing happens to me now: I already answered mails, in which I was asked about my route. Cyclists who I met on the road and rode together for a couple of days or months turning into close friends. Via Instagram, I've met a lot of other cyclists, the same goes for Facebook. On Facebook for example, strangers helped me to find places to stay. Not to mention Warmshowers. So many helpful and cordial people who have already let me into their houses and their family. 12. Riding a bike is fun ! Who doesn't have beautiful childhood memories, where you went on the bike to the lake during the summer holidays? Cycling is still fun as an adult. When it finally goes down the mountain and you can lay yourself into the curves. Or just cruise ... the sun tickles you in the nose, you hear the birds chirp, endorphins flow through the body and you're just happy with your life ... 13. It's more intensive than other forms of traveling In the original German blog I quoted at that point a famous Austrian writer named Stefan Zweig [1881 - 1942]. Unfortunately I couldn't find an official translation online, but there is an official translation from his book "Journeys" in which you can find the essay I'm going to quote now. So I'm just making clear that this is a free translation by myself, not an official one."But still, there is no psychological charm in this mechanical uprising [Stefan Zweig talks about mechanical mountain railways], it lacks in a strange prickling pride, the feeling of conquest. And this strange feeling, which belongs to a true experience, is dispensed with by all those who are being traveled instead of traveling on their own, who somewhere at a counter pay the price for the round trip from their wallet; but not the other price, the higher, the more valuable, from the inner will, the strained energy. And strangely, this expenditure reimburses later. The memory only remains particularly luminous and strong, where we have made an impression with anger, inconvenience, and error; you like to think of nothing more than the small laboriousnesses, the errors and tribulations of a journey, just as in later years you'll love the most stupid idiocy of your own youth the most." The experiences will not fade quickly and the landscapes have become memorable, as I didn't just see them passing while sitting in the bus, but I have fought for them myself. Furthermore I remember the days when I fought on steep gradients or in the deep mud. I think of them and have to laugh. 14. It's healthy I probably don't have to explain that you get fit during such a tour. You'll also know that sport is producing happiness homones and helps relaxing. Sport in the fresh air is even healthier. You also sleep deeper and better. Another plus for many - if not for me - is the weight loss. I even got to know some bike travelers, whose main motivation was weight reduction. Even if not for me, many cyclists are happy about the fact that they can eat so much and everything they want during a tour without gaining weight. 15. It makes you proud ! It's hard work, but it pays off. Looking at the map of North and Central America, I get an indescribable feeling. Damn - I rode from Vancouver to Guatemala by bike. Only with my own strength. Source: Radmaedchen
1. Tailgating No fun in a car, terrifying if you’re on a bike. It’s amazing how often some drivers think it’s OK to drive an inch behind your rear wheel. The example in the video was a particularly bad one – the driver concerned seemed to think I should have been in the bus lane, even though it was occupied further down, and tried to more or less shove me off the road. 2. The close pass A hugely common experience, generally carried out by drivers who feel compelled to overtake no matter what the risks. Obviously, fast close passes are the most scary, but they are always a shock, as shown by the startled yelp I generally give in the examples above. 3. The overtake-and-cut-off Another routine occurrence, often requiring you to slam on the brakes. The example above features a motorbike rider, who tailgated me down a narrow 20mph street where it was clearly unsafe to overtake, beeping the horn, before pulling across me to turn, seemingly as much for punishment as convenience. Don’t turn up the volume too loud at work, as I’m afraid I swore. 4. Speeding This is ubiquitous, and as mentioned above, is much more of a problem on quieter roads. Even in London at less congested times, for example during the night, speeding is the norm. The example above shows that even when it’s a moped, an over-fast overtake can be startling. 5. Stopping in the bike lane It is amazing how many drivers think cycle lanes are some form of emergency parking. The video snippet above features a sight I see several times a week – a 24-hour bike lane near where I live blocked by someone who has decided to pop into the adjoining shop, forcing riders to pull out into the centre of a busy road while going up a hill. 6. The lane squeeze This seems linked to some drivers’ belief that cyclists should be squeezed into the gutter, and that if they’re not it’s fine to edge into the rider’s lane to try and nudge them over. In the example above, I was deliberately in the centre of the lane on the roundabout in question, as I was turning right immediately afterwards. 7. The pinch point push Advertisement Every cyclist knows this one: as the road narrows, usually for a pedestrian traffic island, someone in a vehicle tries to overtake at the last minute, obliging the cyclist to brake heavily to avoid being forced into the kerb, or worse. 8. Annexing the advanced stop zone Used in many cities, these painted boxes at the front of traffic lights are designed to allow cyclists to set off from a green light in full view of others, not trapped among a stream of vehicles. Sadly, quite a few drivers ignore this, forcing cyclists either to wait behind or edge even further ahead. 9. Jumping the lights There is much popular fuss about this habit among some cyclists. But watch most junctions carefully and you’ll see just as many drivers ignoring the red. This is often done at speed – many accelerate across as the lights change – and causes many more deaths and injuries. As ever, it’s all about the physics. 10. Hogging the road It’s common as a cyclist to have vehicles occupying space which isn’t strictly theirs. The example in the video shows one of the many ways the residential street shown is unpleasant to ride on – right-turning drivers cutting the corner, veering heavily into the opposite lane. If you’re coming the other way in a car this can be unsettling. Do so on a bike and it’s downright scary. Source: The Guardian
One aspect of cycling that gets taken for granted and is often overlooked is the importance of how you breathe. You do it non stop, hopefully, but most people don’t really think about tuning into what this non stop activity can tell you and how you can improve when you pay attention to it. The first thing that your breathing can tell you is what gear to use. If you are climbing and you are puffing and panting like a labrador after chasing the neighbours cat, then your breathing is telling you that you are in too easy a gear. Your cadence is too high and you are gone anerobic. This can work for a short space of time to hang on to a group over the top but you will very quickly blow up. Very often your legs might feel fine at this point but it is your lungs that are gone. Conversely when you are climbing and your breathing is relaxed but your legs feel like they are about to explode, cramp up or generally just stop moving at all leaving you to fall down in a heap on the road, then you are in too hard a gear. You need to increase your cadence by changing into an easier gear and use your aerobic fitness more rather than depending upon the strength and power in your legs. Put simply, if your breathing is under pressure but your legs are ok change into a harder gear and if your breathing is fine but your legs are on fire change into an easier gear. If your breathing is under pressure and your legs are also screaming at you, then as Sean Kelly once remarked to me whilst I was suffering beside him on a climb with my legs cramping up expecting some magical words of wisdom – You need to train more! Many people and not just cyclists have a tendency to shallow breathe. What that means is that you are just using the top 1/3 of your lungs. An easy way to check how you breathe is : Whilst sitting in a chair to place one hand on your chest and one on your belly. Many people as they breath will just feel their chest move out and in. That is shallow breathing. To use your full capacity you should feel your belly move out first and then your chest as you breath in and then as you exhale your chest should deflate first followed by your belly. This engages your diaphragm which acts almost like a bellows and sucks more air in with each breath and pushes out the carbon dioxide. The benefits of working on your breathing are a lowering of your heart rate along with making the blood less acidic and as anyone who has experienced the effects of lactic acid will know the longer that can be held off the better. I often do a 4 in 4 out exercise for 10 minutes where you breathe in for 4 seconds focusing on your belly and chest and then breath out of 4 seconds. This can also be done for 3 or 5 seconds or whatever suits you best. Another good breathing exercise is box breathing where you breathe in for 4, hold for 4, breath out for 4 and hold for another 4, before starting all over again. I was shown this one before giving a 20 minute presentation to 400 people to calm the nerves, but have been using it as a breathing and relaxation technique ever since. In simple terms a bit of focus on your breathing off the bike will make you feel more relaxed and less stressed, whilst on the bike it will tell you what gear to use and improve your performance by between 5 – 8 % as you reap the rewards of the work you do off the bike. You can take your hand away from your belly now. Source: The Cycling Blog
As a cyclist, there’s nothing like a long ride to bring a sense of accomplishment, for beginners and seasoned pros alike. Now if you’re relatively new to the sport, or have yet to attempt anything longer than two hours, there’s no need to feel intimidated; successful, long-distance cycling often comes down to strategy and planning, and not just fitness. Alex Stieda knows just what it takes to make it through a long bike ride: He was the first North American to wear the yellow jersey of the Tour de France, with team 7-Eleven in 1986. He currently offers skills camps and tours through his website, stiedacycling.com. Of course, long bike rides do require a certain level of endurance, and it’s best to work on gradually building the distance and intensity of your rides. “Say your weekend ride is two hours. Over a period of eight weeks, add about a half hour to each ride; in two months you’ll be ready for a century ride,” Stieda recommends. He also advises adding more time in the saddle. “Be sure to sneak in another ride or two of at least an hour during the week,” he says. When you’re training for long distance cycling, not every ride has to be a quad-killer. Recovery rides are just as important for building your fitness base.
So, you want to survive your first 60-mile (or longer) ride? Try our metric century training plan, and check out more of Stieda’s tips below. Pedal Smart If you want to last long on a ride, you can’t go all out right from the start. That includes pedaling in an efficient gear—one that isn’t too hard and won’t fry your legs. Opt for a slightly easier gear with a higher cadence versus one that’s lower because the pedals are harder to turn over. “By maintaining a cadence of at least 90 RPM, you give your aerobic and muscular systems a break,” Stieda says. “Think of lifting a 20-pound bench press 10 times instead of one rep of 200: You lift the same amount but with less overall effort.” Eat and Drink Lots When you’re out on a long bike ride, nutrition and hydration are key for sustaining your effort. Stieda says to aim to drink about one bottle per hour, depending on heat and exertion level. “Don’t worry so much about what you mix with the water; the water is what’s most important,” he says. “Eat a bite or two of food every 15 minutes—consistency over the day is crucial. If you’re out beyond two hours, plan a stop to refill bottles and have a snack.” (These raspberry bars are a crowd favorite.) Use the Rule of Thirds If a long ride still seems overwhelming, divide it into three more or less equal distances and have a plan for each of those segments: “The first segment should feel easy, just spinning along. During the second, you should start to feel your muscles working. If you have any jam left, show it in the last third. Nothing screams “rookie” like jumping away on the first climb only to bonk and need to be babysat to the finish,” Stieda says. Watch the Wind The wind can be your friend, or it can be your enemy. “If you start with a tailwind, roll easy—you’ll have a headwind on the way home. In a group, stick together during headwind stretches so you can take turns at the front working to shelter the others,” he says. [Find 52 weeks of tips and motivation, with space to fill in your mileage and favorite routes, with the Bicycling Training Journal.] Plan for Trouble With longer rides come greater odds that something will go wrong. It’s likely your ride will be smooth sailing, but you should be prepared regardless. At minimum, carry gear to fix at least two flats, a mini tool, your cell phone, your ID, and cash. “I stash a $20 bill under my shoe insole,” Stieda says. He also recommends following the code of the road: “Stop for any rider in need. The good deed will come around one day.” More Quick Tips Aches and pains crop up during long rides. To minimize them, move. • Periodically change hand positions, keeping your thumbs wrapped around the bar or brake lever for security. • To relieve your neck and shoulders, shrug for 5 to 10 seconds. • On a clear stretch of road, reach one hand up between your shoulders for a few seconds, then swap hands. • Stand up and drop one pedal so your leg is straight. Let your heel sag below the pedal. Hold for 20 seconds, then switch legs. Tranquil and beautiful though it is, cycling in the countryside can be pretty hairy with all the unpredictable drivers and animals When you're ploughing through the city streets, avoiding van drivers and yells from motorists, countryside cycling seems pretty idyllic by comparison. There's plenty of space for you and your wheels, no traffic jams or one-way systems to get in your way. Beautiful views spread out before you and fresh country air fills your lungs. I live in the heart of the Irish countryside, and I adore taking to the rural roads and hillsides on my bike. However, there are just as many risks to a cyclist on these seemingly empty lanes than in the city. When I first started cycling here, motorists were my biggest concern. The problem with windy country roads is that drivers know them so well, they think nothing of taking them at 80mph. They'll fly around bends, overtake at any time and generally make like the roadrunner. Recently I was taking a downhill bend leaving a small village, knowing that a narrow bridge was coming up ahead. The Range Rover behind me must have known this too, but didn't think it worth slowing down. He overtook me and narrowly avoided the car that we met as we took the corner. A valuable lesson I've learnt (both in cycling and general life) is to assume that everyone else around you is stupid. Presume that the driver behind you wouldn't think of oncoming traffic round a bend, and either signal to him or pull out, not giving him the space to overtake. Never is assertiveness more important than on country roads. When I first began, my temptation was to stick as close to the verge as possible to allow the cars all the space on the narrow lanes. But I soon learnt that I had to fight my corner and take my rightful place on the road. If nothing else, soft verges can carry you off the road pretty quickly once your tyre clips the edge. Be wary going around tight corners too – lack of lane markings and narrow roads mean that people often stray from their side. It was pretty early on in my cycling days that I met my arch nemesis. Rural dog owners seem to have an aversion to keeping their pets behind closed gates, or containing them in any way. The biggest troublemakers seem to be the smaller, ninja-style mutts, who hide behind their hedgerow waiting for the perfect moment to attack. My first meeting with one of these demons almost resulted in a crash, as I had to both recover from the shock of a screaming bark and manoeuvre my way past the snapping jaws chasing me up the road. Cyclists have been killed after a fall brought on by a dog leaping out – the danger is very real. I've learnt a few tricks to deal with these pests. Brendan, a local cyclist and friend of mine, has a unique method of coping with animals on the road. If he meets a dog he lets out a colossal and thunderous roar. His bellowing hasn't failed him yet. If you can't quite brave the guttural shouting, my cycling partner Sorcha swears by a squirt of water from her bottle, which seems to do the trick. Personally, I always enjoy an expletive filled rant shouted at the owners as I pass their house. Alternatively a letter to the local police will do the trick. Dogs aren't the only danger in the country. Sheep, whilst posing no real threat of aggression, are skittish creatures, prone to running in random directions. One local cyclist met one of Mary's little lambs while reaching for his water bottle, couldn't navigate the swerve and took a pretty nasty tumble. Brendan's trick for sheep? A good loud "Baaaa!" seems to serve him well. But it isn't all rabid dogs, flighty sheep and ignorant drivers. The real benefit of the roads near me is the stunning routes that they take me on. Any path that I take leads me to breathtaking mountains, lakes and forests. Cycling through these scenes reminds you how beautiful the country can be, and how lucky you are to be riding through it. As always though, there is a lesson to be learnt. One man was so taken with his view of Loch Gill on the stillest of days, the lake isle of Innisfree perfectly reflected in the lake, that he missed the pothole in his path. Which, rather quickly, brought him down to earth with a bump. The golden rules of countryside cycling1. Hold your own, and take your rightful place in the road. If it's not safe for the car behind you to overtake, let them know. 2. Watch out for potholes on roads you're not used to. 3. Be assertive with any animals you meet. 4. Prepare for a longer spin – bring enough water and food with you, as you never know where you'll next find a shop. 5. Kit your bike out with lights and wear a high vis. When darkness falls in the country, it means business. Source: The Guardian
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AuthorWelcome to the Cycling blog. Covering all things cycling for anyone that loves to ride. No matter the discipline we have advice, news & reviews for you. Archives
November 2019
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