Biker Tour: One Man's Journey Spanning 196 Countries Over 51 Years - Cyclist Journeys Through 196 Nations Over Half a Century, Via Bicycle Travel
Pedaling Through the Globe: An Insider's Guide to Bicycle World Tours
Embrace the spirit of adventure with a globe-trotting bicycle tour. This comprehensive guide offers valuable tips, recommendations, and resources for anyone dreaming of an epic cycling journey around the world.
1. What's a World Bike Tour All About?
A world bike tour is a thrilling, long-distance cycling excursion that traverses multiple countries and continents. Cyclists undertake these expeditions for various reasons, such as personal challenges, cultural exploration, philanthropy, or ecological consciousness.
2. Preparing for Your World Bike Tour
Plotting Your Route
- Dreaming big, pick the continents and countries that tickle your fancy. Classic routes include:
- Europe to Asia via the Trans-Siberian rail or the ancient Silk Road
- North America through Central and South America
- Africa’s rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes
- Consider the season to avoid harsh climates like monsoons, winters, or desert heat.
- Do your homework on visas and border crossings for each country.
Distance and Duration
- World tours can last from a few months to several years.
- The average daily cycling distance ranges from 50 km to 120 km depending on your fitness, terrain, and objectives.
3. Essential Gear
The Bicycle
- Opt for a sturdy touring bike or expedition bike with these key features:
- Durable steel frame
- Multiple gears
- Comfortable saddle
- Rack and pannier mounts
Must-Have Gear
- Panniers or bikepacking bags to schlep your clothes, tools, grub, and camping stuff.
- Camping essentials (tent, sleeping bag, mat) if sleeping under the stars.
- Repair kit with spare tubes, patch kits, multi-tool, and air pump.
- A GPS device or smartphone loaded with offline maps.
- Helmet, lights, and reflective gear for safety.
4. Getting in Shape
- Train your legs with long-distance rides.
- Master bike handling with a fully-loaded rig.
- Learn the ropes of basic bike repairs.
- Mentally tough out the long hours in the saddle and variable conditions.
5. Safety and Health
- Stock a first-aid kit.
- Obey local traffic rules and avoid dodgy neighborhoods.
- Stay hydrated and keep up your energy levels.
- Get required vaccinations.
- Have travel insurance covering cycling activities.
6. Financing Your Journey
- Costs will vary greatly depending on your style and destinations.
- Major expenses include:
- Buying a bike and gear
- Grub and lodgings
- Visas, permits, and fees
- Repairs, replacement parts, and contingencies
7. Words of Wisdom and Useful Resources
- Books: "The Art of Cycling" by Robert Hurst, "Bicycle Touring Map of the World" by Adventure Cycling Association.
- Websites:
- Adventure Cycling Association (adventurecycling.org)
- Crazy Guy on a Bike (crazyguyonabike.com)
- Global Cycling Network (GCN)
- YouTube Channels: Stay updated with world tour cyclists' vlogs and tutorials.
8. Legendary Bike Tourers
- Mark Beaumont: A speed demon setting records for circumnavigating the globe on two wheels.
- Jessica and James Cool: A daring duo cycling through over 30 countries.
- Ted Simon: Author of the legendary memoir "Jupiter’s Travels," chronicling his iconic bike tour around the world.
A World Tour Bicycle Checklist
| Step | To-do List ||-------------|--------------------|| Route Planning| Pick your continents and countries || Timing | Schedule to avoid harsh climates || Documents | Obtain visas, permits, and insurance || Bike | Acquire a reliable touring rig || Prep | Build endurance, bike-handling, and repair skills || Money | Plan your expenditures || Safety | Get vaccinated, kit up on first-aid, and practice road safety || Motivation | Read, watch videos, and connect with fellow cyclists |
- Choose your world cycling tour adventure, from traversing the Silk Road in Europe and Asia, crossing North America & South America, or exploring Africa's rich landscapes.
- Incorporate lifestyle choices and embrace adventure travel, as you embark on a cycling tour around the world, supported by this comprehensive guide's valuable tips.
