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I Love Bicycling is a website that is geared towards cycling for beginners with road cycling tips, training articles, nutrition tips, weight loss, how to’s and bike repair articles.

What Is a Touring Bike Good For? 5 Benefits We Know You’ll Love

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Deciding what kind of bike to invest in can be a tricky decision. Many get caught up in the bells and whistles of each year’s road and mountain models, as they are often the ones most prominently on display. But if adventure is your style, commute your objective, practicality your goal, and/or exploration your passion – you may want to consider getting a touring bike, instead. 

touring bike

(Credit: Adobe Stock)

What Is a Touring Bike?

Touring bikes are a specialized type of bicycle designed for long-distance travel and carrying heavy loads, making them ideal for extended journeys and bike touring adventures. These bikes are known for their durability, comfort, and load-carrying capacity. Several components set them apart when it comes to design and material when compared to other bike styles.

Design

Touring bikes have a unique design that has been engineered for comfort, durability, and function. Multiple mounting points allow riders to attach accessories like racks, mudguards, and panniers to make sure their rig is equipped for anything a trip might throw at them. That could be hauling home groceries from the store or bringing your gear along for a multi-day trip.

Wider tires help to accommodate varying terrain types, from paved to gravel and anything in between. This feature is commonly complimented by a bulkier braking system that can easily control the extra weight on the bike and its momentum, which can be harder for a lighter setup to slow down.

All of this is accentuated by a more upright and comfortable riding posture that reduces fatigue on the lower back and neck. Spending hours on a bicycle can be uncomfortable to say the least, but touring bikes generally keep the journey in mind, and sacrifice things like frame weight and wind resistance to prioritize comfort.

Design Highlights

  • Wide tires
  • Multiple mounting points
  • Powerful brakes
  • Durable Frame
  • Upright riding position

Material

The material with which touring bikes are constructed is typically a metal such as steel or aluminum alloy. This provides the benefit of being both durable and easily repairable. Especially when traveling long distances, you have to be prepared for hiccups and breakdowns with your equipment. The touring bike keeps this in mind, and is designed to take a beating.

A skilled welding or machine shop can often help repair your frame in the event that it starts to wear. We all know that cycling can result in falls and accidents, too, and less durable frames can be easily contorted by such events. Appreciation for the touring bike’s easily workable and widely available materials becomes noticeable when times get tough and resources are limited.

It should also be known that higher-end touring bikes are also available. These models are often constructed out of titanium, which is an exceptionally strong, lightweight, and rust-resistant metal. They’re a top choice for quality and longevity, but you will pay a higher price up front, with less repair options available down the road.

Material Highlights

  • Typically steel or aluminum alloy for weather/rust resistance and durability
  • Widely available and universal materials
  • Economical, low-cost
  • Easily repairable
  • Premium titanium options are also available on the market
touring bike

(Credit: Adobe Stock)

Top 5 Benefits of the Touring Bike

Now that we’ve given you a more global view of touring bikes in general, let’s nail down the top five benefits of having one of these rigs in your inventory.

1. Versatility

The ability of these bikes to ride on different types of terrain means your options are endless when it comes to travel. Whether you’re staying on main roads or taking detours through mountain trails, these bikes are up for the task. It’s ready to take you where your competition road bike can’t, at speeds that your mountain bike wouldn’t be able to compete with.

2. Comfortable Riding Position

Prolonged riding on the bike can wreak havoc on your hip flexors, neck, lower back, and knees. The touring bike has a less aggressive geometry, however, which allows for a more upright and comfortable riding posture. It’s designed with not hours, but days of riding in mind – giving up some speed to help prioritize comfort and minimize fatigue on your body.

3. Load-Carrying Capabilities

Carrying your gear has never been easier. With multiple mounting points for your rack, pannier, mudguards and more, there’s a place for everything from your tent and repair equipment to your food and clothing essentials. The longer wheelbase typically found on touring bikes helps evenly distribute the load while at the same time leaving enough room for an efficient pedal stroke.

4. Durable & Easily Fixable Materials

Commonly constructed of steel or aluminum alloy, touring bikes have strong, durable frames that can withstand the test of time. Designed to endure thousands of miles through varying terrain and inclement weather, you’re sure to be in good hands while out there on the road. Best of all, they’re easily fixable, and your local welder can likely help fix any major damage that occurs.

5. See the World on Two Wheels

touring bike

(Credit: Adobe Stock)

By far the biggest benefits of these bikes is what it allows you to do; see the world at ground level, powered by your own body, outside in the air immersed in every single second of it. A touring bike is a cheap ticket to the rest of the world – it just might take you a bit longer to get there! 

Prepare Your Body for Adventure

Looking to increase your strength, flexibility, and injury resistance as a cyclist? Join a community of thousands of bikers worldwide and train for pain-free riding with us at Dynamic Cyclist. We have a huge library of professionally designed, follow-along routines to get you started. Try us 7-days FREE by clicking here!

The Best Waterproof Panniers

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If you’ve ever been on a bike touring trip (or bikepacking) you know how important it is to keep your gear dry. There’s nothing worse than crawling into a damp sleeping bag after spending all day out in the elements. So, before heading out on the trip of a lifetime, be sure to invest in the best waterproof panniers to keep you dry no matter what.

The Best Waterproof Panniers

The Best Pannier Brands

Over the years there have some brands that have stood above the rest when it comes to pannier design and quality. Preparing for a bike tour is exciting, but can also be overwhelming with the amount of gear available. Going with one of the trusted names will ensure you don’t arrive at your campsite with soggy gear, can keep everything organized with a streamlined design, and will keep you gear from spilling all over the road without you noticing (yes, that has happened).

Some of the best pannier brands are as follows: Ortlieb, Vaude, Arkel, Carradice, Altura, Hyalite, Axium, Overboard, Thule, and Brooks.

Features To Look For

Panniers are the core of your touring setup as they will hold everything you need to survive days, weeks, or months on your bike. You will want a bag that can easily fit all of your camping gear, clothes, food, and bike tools for any technical bike issues that may come up.

Size

If you’re looking for a quality pannier for a weekend trip or for commuting to and from work, then you’ll want up to a 20 liter set of waterproof panniers (10L each). If you’re planning on setting out on a multi-day or week tour, then you may want up to 40 liters (20L each) of space.

Weight

Waterproof panniers are usually one large compartment with a roll top, making them relatively light. Bags designed from canvas or leather tend to be heavier due to more pockets and a fold over top.

Attachment system

For bicycling touring, you will want to make sure the attachment system is simple enough to easily remove, but will also remain secure over hours of riding and bumpy roads. Most panniers have a universal mount, but some require a brand specific rack.

The Top 5 Waterproof Panniers

Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Panniers

The Best Waterproof Panniers

Price: $260 (for pair)

Size: 20 liters each

At the top of the list is the classic Ortlieb Back-Roller waterproof panniers. These bags are popular for both commuting and touring thanks to their capacity, durability, and completely waterproof design. Made from polyester with a double coated construction and a thermoplastic waterproof coating, these bags have earned their 5-star rating.

The price may seem daunting, but this includes a set of two bags, and they will last you a lifetime. The only downside is that the one large compartment design can be tough to organize, but there is now an inner pouch for a laptop or tablet. Most people use plastic bags or stuff sacks within the bag to keep their gear organized.

Thule Shield Pannier

The Best Waterproof Panniers

Price: $149 (for pair)

Size: 14 + 24 liters each

The Pack ‘n Pedal series from Thule is known for its budget friendly waterproof options for both commuting and epic bike tours. The price includes both rear bags, and includes a detachable shoulder strap for removing and carrying the bag if necessary. For cycling into the night, the Thule Shield is highly reflective, with attachments for further bike lights. There is a lower magnetic clip connection for a secure fit, but it can come lose on really bumpy dirt roads or trails, so this bag is better for smoother roads. There are 14 and 24 liter options available.

OverBoard Waterproof Classic Pannier

The Best Waterproof Panniers

Price: $179 (for pair)

Size: 17 liters each

OverBoard is known for being virtually ‘bombproof,’ and these bags live up to the reputation. Their classic pannier is 100% waterproof (feel free to ride through all the puddles) while remaining cost effective. The universal rack attachment will secure to any rack, and the inner lining gives shape to the bag, so you know just how much room you’re working with when you go to pack. There is also an outside compartment that is great for storing a phone or notebook.

Dry-Lites Waterproof Pannier

The Best Waterproof Panniers

Price: $100

Size: 14.5 liters each

If you’re looking for a lightweight waterproof solution, this is it. Dry-Lites Waterproof Panniers are featherlight and perfect for lite touring. If more room is needed for gear, these bags are compatible with a trunk bag for a little extra room and accessibility.

Axiom Tempest Hydracore P35 Plus Panniers

The Best Waterproof Panniers

Price: $147

Size: 13.5 liters each

Modern features without sacrificing a waterproof seal, the Axiom Tempest Hydracore P35 brings you the best of both worlds. Used by commuters and touring cyclists alike, these bags offer the pockets that the other bags don’t. However, these can actually make packing a little tougher on longer trips, so you’ll want to make sure all your gear fits in the space adequately. The bags can removed easily from the rack, and there is even a removable laptop sleeve included.

7 Of The World’s Toughest Bike Races

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When you think of some of the toughest cycling races in the world, the Tour de France usually comes in near the top of the list. It goes without saying that it’s not easy, but it’s hard to measure one race more or less difficult than the other. It’s part of human nature to push the limits of our bodies. To strive for the next goal that may seem impossible in the beginning, but becomes achievable with the right amount of discipline and training. Although most of us will never tackle the Tour de France, there are a ton of other races and events out there to that could be added to your cycling bucket list (but maybe not these ones). Here are 7 of the world’s toughest bike races.

The World’s Toughest Bike Races

La Ruta de los Conquistadores – Costa Rica

Toughest Bike Races

Starting out with one the most feared races, the La Ruta is only for the world’s best endurance riders. It’s reputation is well warranted, as the course traverses the American land mass from Pacific to Atlantic. There’s over 29,000 feet of climbing over five mountain ranges including a 12,000 foot volcano. If that’s not enough to have you shaking your head, try riding through dense jungle, rainforests and rivers. It’s three days of hell on a mountain bike, and only the best finish it.

The Trans Pyr – Spain

Another one for the mountain bikers, the Trans Pyr inflicts a whole lot of pain over the eight day race. Starting out on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, it sends riders over 509 miles on rugged paths through the Pyrenees. There’s over 66,601 feet of climbing (let that number sink in), with participants spending between 45 – 90 hours in the saddle.

Race Across America – United States

A race longer than the Tour de France, this gruelling test of endurance sends individuals and teams over 3,000 miles from California to Maryland. With no sleep requirements, some of the top individual riders will average just a couple hours a day–spending the rest of the time in the saddle or desperately trying to intake enough calories to keep their bodies going. Both teams and solo riders are given up to 12 days to complete the distance.

The Tour de France

Picture by Alex Broadway/ASO/SWpix.com – Cycling – 2017 Tour de France

 

There can’t be a list of the toughest races without the Tour de France simply due to its incredible speed. Riders must maintain an average daily speed of 25 miles/hour if they are to simply complete the race, let alone compete. That speed has to be maintained every day for 21 days and more than 2,100 miles. The intensity is grueling and puts the body on the edge of the lactate threshold. The last rider must finish within a certain percentage of the winner’s time or else they are not allowed to continue.

The Tour Divide – Canada / US

The grand tour of mountain biking, the Tour Divide is a completely self supported race across the country from Banff, Canada, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. There is no entry fee and no medals, but if you finish you’ll be in the record books and will have the experience of a lifetime! The route is the forgotten passes of the Continental Divide, climbing over 200,000ft over extreme mountainous terrain.

The Iditarod Invitational

It’s not the longest, nor does it have the most elevation, but as far as races go this is one of the toughest. Riding over 1,110 miles from Anchorage, Alaska to Nome in the dead of winter is not for the faint of heart. In fact, most participants do not finish with extreme weather conditions and no set course. Racers are given the freedom to make their way on bike, ski, or foot, with an average speed being just over 3mph. This one is not for everyone, and can become dangerous if participates are unprepared for the freezing temperatures and bleak landscape.

The Death Ride – US

The Death Ride (aka The Tour of the California Alps) is 129 miles all wrapped up into one gruelling day. Riders navigate five mountain passes, 15,000 ft of total elevation and get to take in some stunning views–that is if they can see through the pain.

A Beginner’s Guide to Bikepacking Bags

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With the rise of mountain biking and the increasing popularity of long distance off-road riding, bikepacking has emerged as an alternative to traditional bike touring. As a compact and light way to carry all the necessities on the trail, there are a variety of bag combinations that can make up your perfect off-road bikepacking system.

Bike touring vs. Bikepacking

Generally speaking, bike touring refers to the traditional rack and pannier set up on a touring specific bike, most suited for smooth roads (see below). Bikepacking is a more universal gear setup that can fit onto almost any bike, whether full suspension, carbon, or fatbike.

With the compact nature of bikepacking comes very limited space. You will have to be more intentional with what you take with you, and every little thing should be absolutely necessary. That being said, with off road abilities comes endless opportunities for adventures, and if you haven’t tried bikepacking yet, you may want to add a trip to your bucket list.

Left: Touring setup, Right: Bikepacking setup

Types of bikepacking bags

As almost any bike can be your vehicle for a bikepacking trip, your selection of gear will vary. You can chose to get custom fit bags specific for your bike, or do some bike measurements and go with a universal kit that will fit your frame. A bikepacking ‘kit’ will include the following:

Frame Pack

A frame pack fits within the ‘triangle’ of the bike (formed by the top tube, seat tube and downtube). As this is within the center of the bike, it’s great for storing heavier items like water, cooking gear and food. You may also want to include spare tubes and any tools in the frame pack.

Handlebar Roll or Harness

Taking the shape of either a roll or a harness, the handlebar pack should be kept relatively light so it doesn’t throw off your steering abilities. The roll works well to hold a small tent or sleeping mat.

Seat pack

The seat pack may look a little strange at first as it goes directly under/beneath the seat of your bike. However, this design is wind resistant, doesn’t flap around, and doesn’t get in the way of your legs when you have to walk your bike (unlike a pannier). Depending on the size, this is where you want to store the majority of your overnight gear.

Accessory bags

The main bags can be awkward to get in and out of while you’re riding, which is what the accessory bag is for. Perfect for holding small snacks and your cell phone, there are both stem and top tube options for an accessory bag.

Backpack

A small backpack may be unavoidable, and is perfect for your spare layers of clothes. It makes for easy access should the weather take a turn for the worse.

Beginner – Getting into it

Budget: $250

If you’re just dipping your toe into the world of bikepacking, there’s no reason to go out and spent hundreds of dollars on bags that you may use once or twice and then stuff into your overflowing storage unit. Chances are, you already have most of what it takes to get out there for a night or two.

Head out for an overnight ride with a backcountry campground or shelter halfway. Try your first trip during the summer months so you don’t have to be as worried about bringing enough gear to stay warm in low temperatures.

What you’ll need:

Dry bags – Dry bags of various sizes can be strapped or clipped onto your bike around the seatpost and saddle rails to make a “seat pack.”

Day pack – Most likely you already have a day pack you can use. This is perfect for carrying your clothes and light snacks.

DIY Handlebar Roll – A large drybag with your tent and sleeping bag can be strapped to your handlebars with Voile Straps. If you don’t mind buying one item to make this easier, check out the Revelate Sweetroll which is basically a glorified dry bag with stackable spacers that provide room for cable and lever interference.

Water bottle Cages – In addition to your regular water bottle cage, you can use electrical tape to attach a cage to the underside of the downtube on your bike or to either side of your forks.

Intermediate – Weekend warrior

Budget: $400

Once you’ve gone on a couple overnights, and no doubt have become addicted to the freedom of it, then it may be time to take your gear up to the next level with you. Depending on the types of trips you’ll want to be heading out on, there’s still no need to break the bank. You can start building up your kit to where you want it to be, but there’s you don’t have to do it all at once.

What you’ll need:

Seat Pack ($130-$200) – This will most likely be the most expensive of the bags, but it’s worth getting a quality seat pack that will last out on your adventures. The Apidura Saddle Pack is a great option, made from highly durable and waterproof dimension polyant. There are three sizes available, from a commuter to a long haul bikepacking size.

Frame Bag ($90-$100) – There are a lot of options out there that are ‘universal’ frame bags, in that they will fit on most bikes. Of course, you are not making the most of the space within your frame, as it likely won’t be an exact fit, but they work well and are a lot cheaper than custom fit bags. You’ll have to choose between a half frame pack (uses the front or top of the triangle and leave room for water bottle carriers) or a full frame pack (utilizes the entire space within the triangle). The Revelate Tangle is a great half frame option.

Handlebar Harness / Roll ($120-$150) – As the perfect spot for your tent, poles, and other bigger items, the handlebar harness is one of the most important aspects of your intermediate kit. As mentioned above, the Rock Bros Handlebar Bag comes in three versatile sizes, and is one of the better options out there.

Pro – Life on the bike

Budget: $700+

If you’re hitting the trails and have no intention of quitting anytime soon, then it is worth investing in top of the line gear that will have your back day-in and day-out. Many manufacturers offer custom made bags to ensure the perfect fit and features for you and your bike, especially for the frame bag.

Some of the best custom bikepacking bag outfitters are Bedrock Bags (USA), Crater Packs (USA), Old Bag Cycling (Aus), and Porcelain Rocket (Can).

A pro kit will include the following:

  • Seat Pack
  • Handlebar Roll
  • Frame Pack
  • Top Tube Pack
  • Stem Bag (right and left)

The Best Waterproof Bike Covers

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A bike cover is one of the most simple and effective ways to protect your bike. A bike can be considered an investment, so it’s worth doing what you can to protect that investment and make it last as long as possible. A quality waterproof bike cover can protect your bike from the elements and ensure it lasts for years to come.

Ideally you want to keep your bike inside, but depending on your living situation this is not always possible. If bringing one more bike into the house is going to be the last straw for your significant other, then you need to take advantage of other options.

Leaving your bike open to the elements will speed up the aging process. The sun, water and dirt will end up causing damage to your bike and cost you in repairs. If you’re in a humid climate, rust on certain metal components can also develop quicker.

When you are choosing a bike cover, first thing to look at is what material it is made from. You want to ensure that it is, in fact, waterproof and that it will not snag when you’re taking it on and off. Next you will want to try it on your bike to make sure it fits and covers the entirety of the bike, including the wheels.

Here are some of the best waterproof bike covers to ensure you do all you can to protect your bike.

5 Of the Best Waterproof Bike Covers

Pro Bike Tool Cover

Price: $30 – $40

The Pro Bike Tool Cover is on the more pricey end of the the spectrum, but it does offer high performance protection. Made from Ripstop Oxford Fabric and with heat sealed seams, it really does keep out the snow, ice, wind, dust, sun, and pretty much anything else you throw at it. With a variety of sizes, you can get one to fit over your road bike, mountain bike (even with 29ers), or multiple bikes.

MayBron Gear Bike Cover

Price: $27

This heavy duty MayBron Gear bike cover is also made from durable Oxford fabric, which is not only heavy-duty but also relatively lightweight. Be sure to measure your bike before purchasing as there isn’t much wiggle room when it comes to the cover fitting snugly over your tires. This cinching bottom works great, and it includes holes for your bike lock.

YardStash Bicycle Cover

Price: $30

The YardStash bike cover is designed to offer ground up coverage, made from durable 210D Polyester. It has an elastic bottom, and also includes a middle buckle making it a good choice if it will be exposed to a lot of wind. There are two vents in the front of the cover that aim to eliminate condensation and corrosion if you live in a humid environment.

COVRIR Ultra-Tech Waterproof Bike Cover

Price: $20

The COVRIR Ultra-Tech bike cover was designed to offer lasting quality at a affordable price in an attempt to eliminate waste created by replacing a bike cover every year. Using a three strap system, this cover is “hurricane proof” while made from breathable fabric to prevent condensation. It also comes with a lock and cable, although you may want to invest in a secondary lock to ensure your bike’s security.

Kotivie Waterproof Sun Protective Bike Cover

Price: $26

The Kotivie bike cover is double sided, so black on one side and reflective on the other for UV protection. It is made from durable Polyester Oxford fabric, with a Silver PU coating to keep it from breaking down in extended sunlight. It is large enough to fit 1-3 bikes, with straps to pull it snug.

Why your next trip should include your bike

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Two of the greatest things in life are cycling and traveling, so why not combine the two? Choosing to plan your next holiday around your bicycle doesn’t necessarily mean strapping on panniers and riding for 8 hours a day. Although bike touring is an adventure all its own, it’s not for everyone or for every trip. Instead, choose a bike friendly location and use your wheels to experience it like a local.

Whether you’re driving or flying, taking your bike along isn’t actually all that difficult. If you want to skip the hassle altogether, bike rentals or shares, and overall cycling infrastructure has become increasingly popular. Many hotels even have loaner bikes that you can use to cruise around the city or countryside, although it probably won’t be as light or nice as the bicycle you’re used to.

Planning your trip around certain rides you want to do, or corners of the city to explore, can greatly widen your horizons. By skipping the typical bus tour and planning out your own routes ahead of time can get you onto the backroads and experiencing the culture like a local. If you need more convincing, here are some of the top reasons to include cycling as a cornerstone of your next trip.

6 Reasons to plan your trip around cycling

  1. Eat whatever you want

    Okay, maybe not whatever you want, but while travelling it’s nice to be able to partake in the local delicacies guilt-free. If you’ve already put in an hour’s ride up and down the winding streets of a city, you can sit back and enjoy that latte and croissant.

  2. Meet people

    When you’re on your bike, there’s no barrier between you and the outside world. You can easily stop and talk to people, ask directions, or simply smile at those you pass. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other cyclists that may cross your path.

  3. Save money

    With no rental car fees or bus passes, you are powering your own way around. Not only does it save you money, but it’s also a whole lot easier. You won’t have to worry about parking, or figuring out what stop to get off at.

  4. Freedom

    Have you ever been on a bus or in a taxi and passed a beautiful building or natural scene? You can only catch a glimpse before it’s gone. If you’re on a bike, then you’re free to stop whenever and wherever you want. With no strict timeline, you can get off the beaten path and experience some of the hidden gems away from the main tourist attractions.

  5. Get the experience of a local

    Not only are you sightseeing from your bike saddle, but you’re also hearing, smelling, and even tasting everything around you. Cycling really is one of the best ways to take in a place, and you get a more authentic experience than if you were driving.

  6. It’s faster

    If you’re in a busy city, cycling is often faster than driving. You can cruise by traffic jams and sometimes avoid the chaos of busy streets altogether by taking bike paths or trails.

While walking is also a great way to explore new places, cycling can be even more freeing as you can cover so much more ground. Start planning your next trip around an area you want to cycle, and then build out from there. There’s no better way to start checking things off your “bike-it” list!

4 Ways To Protect Your Bike While Traveling

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Strapping your bike on your car and heading out on an adventure can be a great way to expand your cycling experience. You can find quiet roads or some new new single track and get away from your go-to routes. The only issue can be figuring out how to best protect your bike while travelling from one place to another.

There are quite a few options when it comes to transporting your bike, and you have to find what will work best for you. This will also be determined by what kind of vehicle you have. Here are some of the best ways to protect your bike and ensure your adventure isn’t tainted by a damaged or stolen bike.

Protect Your Bike

Pick the Right Carrier

  • Rear Mounted Carriers

Rear mounted carried are easy to use, but can have some drawbacks to consider. In most cases they limit access to the trunk or back of the vehicle, which can become an issue when it comes to gear. They are also more susceptible to damage, whether it be from dirt and rocks or an accident. You also need to ensure your plates and lights remain visible, as this can be cause for a road fine in many countries.

  • Roof Racks

Not only does a roof rack tell the world that you are a fun Protect Your Bikeoutdoorsy person, but the it is a great option when it comes to transporting your bike. You can either keep your front wheel on, or some require you remove the front wheel and include a fork grabber that can be locked for extra security. Although roof racks generally keep your bike a lot cleaner, it increases your wind resistance and can affect how your car handles. It can also be difficult to get your bike on and off the roof depending on the height. Plus, there is the added risk of forgetting it’s up there and driving under something (like a garage) and hearing that sickening crunch.

  • In your car

Protect Your BikeSome choose to remove the front wheel and transport their bike in the vehicle for piece of mind. Yes, this is the cheapest and perhaps the most secure method, but it does have its drawbacks. Not only can it be awkward to get your bike in and out, but it can damage your vehicle through catching material or bike grease and dirt. Also, it doesn’t leave much room for anything else if you are heading out with some friends or need other gear.

Position the Bike Correctly

Almost all bike carriers will hold the bike frame somewhere for stability. You’ll want to make sure to place the clamp as close as possible to the frame joint as that’s where the frame will be strongest. This is particularly important for carbon frame bikes.

Lock it up

If you are going to leave your bike unsupervised on your car for any amount of time then you’re going to want to lock it up. Many bike racks include a locking mechanism, but an additional lock is always a good idea. Not only does it make thieft more difficult, but it a visual deterrent to bike thieves in the first place. Whenever possible be sure to leave your car and bike in a well lit and populated area.

Keep it clean

To help avoid scratches while transporting your bike, give it a wipe down before popping it on or in your Protect Your Bikecar. This is especially important for carbon bikes. Likewise, you’ll want to keep your bike rack nice and clean to keep dirt from getting trapped between your bike and the rack. If you’re using a rear mounted bike you can also use a bike cover to keep your bike clean and protect it from incoming rocks and dust.

No matter how far you are transporting it, make sure you take the necessary things with you to protect your bike. Always take a bike lock, at rag or wipe to give your bike a quick clean, and a bike cover if you are going to be leaving your bike out in the elements for any period of time.

Top 5 Cycling Blogs To Follow

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It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind of life, which may be why many of us choose to get out on our bikes every chance we get. Cycling is a way of breaking free, simplifying life, and clearing our minds. Although many of us may not have the chance to drop everything and set out on a ride around the world, there’s adventure in every ride if you know where to look for it.

If you’re looking for a source of inspiration as a cyclist, or for life in general, look no further. These are some of the most inspiring cycling blogs out there, documenting incredible bike journeys, including the good, bad, and painful. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next great adventure cyclist!

Cycling the 6 

“Like most decisions of great consequence my plan to cycle the length of six of the earth’s continents was made in a pub, beer in one hand, mini-atlas in the other.” – Stephen Fabes, Cycling the 6

Stephen Fabes is candid and honest about his six year, 860,203 km ride around the world. Working as a doctor in London for years, he decided to leave his family, friends, and job almost on a whim, which is relatable to most of us. We have these crazy ideas or dreams, but few of us follow through with them because we don’t think it’s possible. As Stephen cycled away from his home, he immediately wondered what the heck he was doing and headed straight to a pub just kilometers out of town. You’ll have to check out his blog to find out what happened next.

Push Bike Girl

Heike Pirngruber first set out from her front door in Southern Germany in 2013. Almost five years later she has made her way across countries and entire continents solo – just her and her bike.

She made her way across Europe and Asia to Japan. From there she hopped on a flight to Los Angeles, and is currently pedaling her way down through Central America. Her blog is full of beautiful photos of the people she meets and the cultures she experiences. Heike isn’t one to sugarcoat things, so as amazing as her experiences have been so far, she is also raw and honest about the tough times and loneliness that you experience as a solo cyclist out on the road.

Tasting Travels

Tasting Travels is a three-languaged blog about people, places, culture and nature. Annika and Roberto started out on a journey to cultivate empathy through bike travel in 2011, and have an impressive map that shows their route around the world. Their goal is to inspire people around the world to consider cycling as a means of travel, whether around the globe or around your home.

“So for those who dream of traveling the world by bicycle and cannot do it at the moment. I invite you to take your bicycle and discover your surroundings. We assure you, you will be impressed by what you can discover. Excitement is just around the corner.”

Family On Bikes

Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you can’t head out on an adventure of a lifetime (it may actually be a reason that you SHOULD).

The Vogel family of four cycled 17,300 km from Alaska to Argentina over the course of three years. They now run their blog and have a series of books to inspire families around the world to “grab life by the horns and enjoy the ride.”

While Out Riding

Cass Gilbert is a freelance cycling journalist, based out of the UK, who has bikepacked through some amazing adventures. First chronicling his journey through the Alaskan backcountry, he has since rode through Mongolia and the Republic of Georgia.

More than an adventure blog, Cass writes about his car-free existence, and about cycling as a way to declutter your life and clear your mind.

How to Travel With Your Bike

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Before starting with the how to’s and how not to travel with your road bike, you must understand that it is a huge pain to travel with your bike. There is honestly no way around it. Hauling around a 30 pound bike bag, no matter how well designed it is, is just plain frustrating. Once you accept this fact, you are ready to travel the world with your bike in tow.

travel with your bike
Check with your airline to find out the maximum weight for your bike bag. There’s often a lot of extra space in the bike bag to stuff extra kit, shoes and tools.

To Bring, or Not to Bring Your Bike

If your main purpose of your trip is to ride your bike, and you are completely in love with it, then absolutely travel with your bike! There’s nothing better than touring a new place on your trusty steed. In this case, you are probably logging a lot of kilometers and even the smallest discomfort on a rental bike can lead to more serious aches and pains later in your vacation.

Type of Travel

If you are planning on staying in one location for the majority of the trip, this also bodes well when considering bringing your bike. The fewer location changes, the fewer times you will need to assemble and reassemble your bike. If you are visiting a number of different cities, think about renting. Constant packing and unpacking, assembling and disassembling can be a drag.

Are you planning on using a bike for exploring, visiting tourist attractions and as your main form of transportation? Consider renting a bike. Locking up your favorite bike outside in areas you are unfamiliar with is asking for trouble.

If you are traveling with your family, and you are the only one riding, you might want to rent. Having your bike in the corner of the condo or timeshare will have you feeling guilty. It might also tempt you to take it out for a rip when you should be joining the rest of your family for breakfast.

Airline Fees

Every airline is different, but with more people traveling with bikes, airlines are taking note and applying surcharges for bikes. Certain airlines are fantastic to fly with, while others apply a heavy tariff as a disincentive. Expect to pay anywhere from $25 on the low-end to up to $200 on the high-end.

Discount Airlines

Are you traveling somewhere with a discount airline? These discount airlines are often tempting, but be sure to investigate how much it will cost you to travel with your bike. It is frequently more economical to fly with a major airline who charge less for bikes rather than a discount airline who might charge up to $20/kg when you find yourself over the allotted weight limit.

A Smile Goes a Long Way

When checking your bike bag, any use of the word bike will likely end up in a surcharge. Stating that you are: “checking oversize luggage” instead of “checking my bike bag” will often save you an added charge. When prompted, the contents of your luggage is better referred to as “sporting goods” instead of “a bike.” As always, you are at the mercy of the airline staff, so being patient and starting the conversation with a big smile can go a long way.

As previously mentioned, because more people are flying with bikes, always expect to pay as per the airline’s policy and be pleasantly surprised when you get through uncharged.

Other Considerations

Bring Your Backup Bike

Consider bringing your backup bike. People in the Pacific North West tend to have “winter bikes” and as tempting as it is to pack up your summer “race” bike, consider bringing your backup bike instead. A forklift through a rear triangle or cracked carbon wheel is a sure way to start your vacation in tears.

Bike Touring

If you plan on bringing your bike and riding it from the airport, consider packing your bike in a robust cardboard box (many bike shops will have old boxes that they are giving away). Once arrived at your destination, assemble your bike at the airport, recycle the cardboard box and begin your adventure!

Travel With Your Bike

Getting to and From the Airport

If you are traveling on your own there may be less of an issue but if you are traveling with a partner or a friend, you will need a van to get you from the airport. This can be difficult in some cities, so plan ahead. Some large taxis charge extra for the van; take this into account. There are very few options which allow you to ride to and from the airport with bike bag in hand. Orucase is your best bet if you are a light packer and have the wrenching skills and patience to sit around at the airport assembling a bike.

Storing Your Bike Bag

Bike bags are big, so you will want to think about where you will be storing these behemoths during your stay. Most softshell cases pack down fairly small, but hardshell cases are awkward and might find themselves parked in the corner of the motel room.

Assembling Your Bike

In most cases, you will need to have basic maintenance skills in order to reassemble your bike. If you are particularly intimidated by tearing your bike apart, high-end bike bags like Scicon will have the least amount of reassembly required. At the other extreme, the Orucase has the user remove the wheels, stem, fork, adjust seat height and remove rear derailleur. Most other travel bags, such as the ever popular EVOC, will be in between these two extremes. Remove the pedals, the handlebars and you’re off to the races!

What To Pack

  • Pump
  • Set of allen keys (make sure you have one large enough for your pedals)
  • Torque wrench if possible
  • Lock
  • Multi-tool
  • Spare tubes
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • Helmet
  • Shoes
  • Gloves
  • Glasses
  • Jersey
  • Shorts

Enjoy your trip!

Best Bike Trails in the World

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Click the Interactive Map below to zoom in and click on each area. Additionally, clicking on each title in the article will take you to a respective website for that area.

Mountain bike trails offer qualities that paved trails often cannot: seclusion, contact with nature and a variety of terrain that requires different skills and equipment. Each of the best bike trails below will meet all three qualities to some degree. See how many you have already ridden and perhaps you will find a new one to pique your interest and plan your next trip around. Let us know what you would like to see added to this best bike trails in the world list as we will continuously be updating it. Without further ado; a few of the best bike trails in the world:

Kingdom Trails – Vermont, USA

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Kingdom Trails in Vermont is a unique bike trail system built on private land. A non-profit maintains the bike trails and the cooperation of the land owners to provide over one hundred miles of singletrack that is uniquely east coast – rocky, twisty and rooty. There are different routes for different ability levels so there is something for everyone here.

Maah Daah Hey – North Dakota, USA

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The Badlands of North Dakota provide good riding on the Maah Daah Hey trail. Campsites along the way allow you to see the entire 97 mile trail without doing it in one shot. The ride can be a rugged back country experience coupled with incredible vistas and excellent trail riding.

Mt. Tam (Tamalpais) – Marin County, California, USA

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Go back to the roots of mountain biking and ride Mt. Tamalpais, across the bay from San Francisco in Marin county. This is where Tom Ritchey, Gary Fisher, Joe Breeze and many others started the first mountain bike races on what now look like extremely rudimentary bicycles. Rip along the trails on your modern bike and wonder how these pioneers handled the trails back then.

Whistler – British Columbia, Canada

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Whistler mountain bike trails are legendary. Some say it is the original location of lift service downhill riding. There are also miles of cross country trails if you do not do downhill. The mountain bike culture pervades this area in the Canadian Rockies, while offering up dramatic views and extreme elevation changes throughout your day, whether you pedal or take the lift.

Slickrock – Moab, Utah, USA

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Slickrock in Moab, Utah is named for the surface that is difficult for shod horses to walk on. In reality, riding the sandstone is some of the grippiest riding you will ever do. Loads of traction does not mean the riding is not difficult. And try not to fall; it is like falling on sandpaper. The barren landscape of petrified sand dunes will keep your attention. There are few other places like it in the world.

The North Shore – British Columbia, Canada

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North Shore riding originated in British Columbia and Severed Dick is one of the original trails. North Shore riding is known for built features that bypass unrideable sections, making them into spectacular challenges. Severed Dick does not have many of these features, but it does have plenty of other natural features that make North Shore riding renowned for challenging terrain.

Graham Hills and Blue Mountain – (outside of) New York City, USA

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Why include two separate parks with trails that are probably not world class? Because of their proximity to New York City (they are still very nice trails). They are both easily accessible by train from the city, one of the busiest and most influential in the world. There is no shortage in outdoor adventure close by. You just have to know where to look. Be sure to keep your eyes open where you live too.

The French Alps – France

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You already know about the Alps from the iconic climbs of the Tour de France, but did you know that mountain bike trails line those same mountainsides? Check out the views that you have seen watching the Tour, but from a different perspective. Alpine trails have lots of exposure and the opportunity to get to quite lofty elevations. Come prepared with a fit pair of lungs.

Table Mountain – Cape Town, South Africa

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Table Mountain overlooks Cape Town. It is a famous vista, best enjoyed after a strenuous ride to the top. Do not let the vista take your concentration from the trails, because they are still a challenging ride. Visit in the South African summer for a nice break from the cold and wet winter back home.

Finale-Ligure – Italy


Finale-Ligure has a wide range of trails to suit all abilities. It is probably the number one mountain bike destination in all of Europe. Like most the the above bike trails, the trails here have spectacular views. Spend your days taking the lifts up or riding cross country. There is something here for everyone.

The Best Bike Trails

The best bike trails are scattered throughout the world. Find what is close to you and ride it regularly, sprinkling in one of these amazing once in a while. We of course missed a few. Let us know what you think we should add as we will be continuously adding to this list of the best bike trails in the world.

Looking for more awesome rides around the world? The book Epic Bike Rides of the World  is an excellent choice and also makes a great gift!

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