How To Bike Across Europe
ATV on a continent is not an easy task, but that does not mean it’s impossible. Some days, you can bike more, some less you can bike, you will be blessed by the sun and cursed with rain, but overall, you will see cities and people you would not otherwise experience. Follow these tips for a successful trip and the trip of a lifetime.
1. Bike: You want a mountain bike with gears. There are tons of accessories that you deem important, such as holding a water bottle, bicycle computer (to check your pace), a shelf, mudguards to keep your back dry when it rains , saddlebags and a comfortable extra seat. Many European countries require by law a bell, which is good to alert people of the country you’re there.
2. Packing: Do not overpack.
- You want a few pairs of bike shorts, rainwear, jeans probably Gore-Tex, not because they are cumbersome, underpants, and wool socks if it’s cold. Sportswear for the evening is important, but try to reduce to a minimum.
- Bring a standard tool kit that includes bike maintenance stuff like Allen wrenches, a pump, screwdriver, and a padlock. Know how to change a flat is a must and basic skills in bike shop, as fixing a barely speaks are also useful.
- A lock is important, but keep in mind that if you stop at a museum for the day your bags are likely to be stolen – it is advisable to bring your bike inside or leave your luggage with a guard or someone who can look after them. Line your saddlebags with garbage bags so that when it rains your articles are not soaked.
- You must also have a handlebar bag that can store your most important items – wallet, plane ticket back to Europe, camera, etc.
3. Aircraft: Usually, you have to box your bike, what can be done by removing the pedals with a pedal wrench (from your toolbox). The left pedal is threaded back so that you will loosen in a clockwise direction. You may be able to obtain a box at the airport. Transporting your bike by train is generally easier, and a short train journey can be a welcome relief from these days spent cycling.
4. With: You can go solo with a friend or a group. You choose!
5. Road: General Plan a route in advance, but do not be afraid to wander off to see what off the beaten track – it is part of the trip. It is necessary to have good cards, you can find some that have even the slope of the hills. The country you visit will depend on the time of year you travel and what you want to see, but take account of contrary winds and the season.
The bike is a different way of exploration – it allows you to be part of the campaign while the car you can drive through the countryside. Each day will be full of ups and downs – literally, but that’s part of what will be the best trip of your life.
