Showing posts with label touring. Show all posts
Showing posts with label touring. Show all posts
Charity bike rides make for such a rewarding way to spend a few hours, a day, a weekend, or more, because they bring so many benefits to so many people.
When we talk about cycling for charity there are usually two ways you can get involved - the first is to enter an organised charity bike ride event, and the second is to do your own thing!
Organised Charity Bike Rides
In terms of the number of participants, organised charity bike rides will always attract more people across the space of a year. For me, a keen cyclist, there are several reasons why this is the case.
Charitable bike rides are highly organised events; they have marshals and volunteers to help you out should something go wrong, and to point you in the right direction when you're unsure of the route. Most importantly for me is the chance to use major roads without having to worry so much about traffic. Some charity bike ride organisers will go so far as to close the route roads completely, whilst others will set up recommended diversions for other road users. Not having to worry so much about the traffic around you makes a charity bike ride so much fun, because you can relax and enjoy yourself!
Another reason why I like charity bike rides so much is because you know you're helping out by participating. If you can have a fun day out, and know that you're doing some good, it makes cycling even more rewarding. Why not make the most of a highly organised event and benefit from the additional satisfaction you get from completing the course?!
There are also the health benefits: cycling is a very good cardiovascular activity, and if you cycle regularly that's even better. Some participants in charity bike rides make the mistake of thinking they can handle the route without prior training - on some easier rides you may find this is OK, but for longer rides it's not advisable. Firstly because you can injure yourself, and end up doing more harm than good, and secondly because you may not be able to finish the course, thereby jeopardising your sponsorship (if applicable).
The final great benefit I see with charitable cycling events is the community involvement. Not only are these events a great way to get out and meet new people from your community, they're a great boost to the community too. Community spirit really reins when everybody comes together for a good cause!
Individual Cycling for Charity
Of course, not everybody wants to be a part of a highly organised event, sharing the road with hundreds, possibly thousands, of other cyclists! Cycling as an individual in the name of charity is also a popular and fun way to do some good.
If you're considering cycling across your country, or continent, it takes a lot of planning and hard work - you can't just set out one day! Carefully choosing your charity in advance is essential, and it's best if you actually get their backing because this could help you out with getting sponsorship, both in terms of raising money for the charity, and raising money for your expenses. Whether you're participating in an organised charity bike ride, or are cycling independently, you'll find charity bike rides are rewarding and worthwhile experiences!
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When we talk about cycling for charity there are usually two ways you can get involved - the first is to enter an organised charity bike ride event, and the second is to do your own thing!
Organised Charity Bike Rides
In terms of the number of participants, organised charity bike rides will always attract more people across the space of a year. For me, a keen cyclist, there are several reasons why this is the case.
Charitable bike rides are highly organised events; they have marshals and volunteers to help you out should something go wrong, and to point you in the right direction when you're unsure of the route. Most importantly for me is the chance to use major roads without having to worry so much about traffic. Some charity bike ride organisers will go so far as to close the route roads completely, whilst others will set up recommended diversions for other road users. Not having to worry so much about the traffic around you makes a charity bike ride so much fun, because you can relax and enjoy yourself!
Another reason why I like charity bike rides so much is because you know you're helping out by participating. If you can have a fun day out, and know that you're doing some good, it makes cycling even more rewarding. Why not make the most of a highly organised event and benefit from the additional satisfaction you get from completing the course?!
There are also the health benefits: cycling is a very good cardiovascular activity, and if you cycle regularly that's even better. Some participants in charity bike rides make the mistake of thinking they can handle the route without prior training - on some easier rides you may find this is OK, but for longer rides it's not advisable. Firstly because you can injure yourself, and end up doing more harm than good, and secondly because you may not be able to finish the course, thereby jeopardising your sponsorship (if applicable).
The final great benefit I see with charitable cycling events is the community involvement. Not only are these events a great way to get out and meet new people from your community, they're a great boost to the community too. Community spirit really reins when everybody comes together for a good cause!
Individual Cycling for Charity
Of course, not everybody wants to be a part of a highly organised event, sharing the road with hundreds, possibly thousands, of other cyclists! Cycling as an individual in the name of charity is also a popular and fun way to do some good.
If you're considering cycling across your country, or continent, it takes a lot of planning and hard work - you can't just set out one day! Carefully choosing your charity in advance is essential, and it's best if you actually get their backing because this could help you out with getting sponsorship, both in terms of raising money for the charity, and raising money for your expenses. Whether you're participating in an organised charity bike ride, or are cycling independently, you'll find charity bike rides are rewarding and worthwhile experiences!
Deciding to go on a cycling tour can very well be one of the best decisions you can make. This will not only give you much needed exercise, but will also allow you to recharge your batteries by taking in the view of the country and breathing in some fresh air.Bicycle touring of any kind is an excellent way to burn calories and shed some pounds in the process. Riding and touring, on the other hand, provide you with an even more effective means of losing weight because you will be far away from your usual temptations and you will actually be more inspired because of the sense of adventure.
Among the first decisions you have to make when going on a tour is to select a destination. You will then have to choose whether to join one that is guided or follow your own instincts. Going on a self-guided cycling tour, offers more flexibility and allows you to enjoy the experience so much more. You will still receive a copy of the route, but you will be able to cycle at the speed that you prefer without worrying about staying with the rest of the group.
Companies that offer tours will provide you with a host of cycles to choose from, some of which even have GPS navigation systems that will give you a sense of security even when following unfamiliar paths. The hotel accommodations will all be taken care of as well. All you have to do is to get yourself checked in, have a good night's sleep and get ready for another day of cycling the following morning.
There are some things that you will have to do on your own. For example replacing flat tires or handling other types of repairs. You will also have to bring your bike helmet to use as these are usually not provided by the tour companies.
If you prefer a more organized plan, then opt for the guided cycling tour, which means that you will be traveling with a party of other cyclists and a couple of guides. These guides will provide you with everything you need along the way, and you will have to follow a strict itinerary along with the rest of the cyclists. Most bicycle tours usually last for about a week or so, and covers about 52 miles (60 kilometers) a day.
Usfull things list:
- Panniers
- Sunglasses
- Stove and Fuel Canister
- Fork and Spoon
- Battery Chargers
- Food
- Cook Pot
- Lighter/Matches
- Sleeping Bag
- Bike Lock
- Extra Tubes
- Tent
- Bike Pump
- Tire Levers
- Leatherman
- Bicycle Multi Tool
- Chain Lube
- Bungee Cord
- Toiletry Kit
- Clothes and Underwear
DAHON - Vitesse P18
The Vitesse P18 is a versatile bike designed for just about any kind of terrain you’re likely to meet: think of it as a compact double road bike with faster, more nimble handling. It’s fast enough for hard training rides, yet it can also be loaded up with racks and panniers for touring. And of course it’s incredibly portable so it can be your constant traveling companion.
Bike Friday - New World Tourist
See some photo of the Fully-Loaded Touring Folding Bike
Don't Miss!!!
