Bicycle Touring In Comfort

Outdoor adventures are more popular than ever. From mountain climbing and hiking to kite surfing and abseiling, there are more clubs, associations, holiday organizations and skills courses than ever. The surge in popularity of outdoor activities has many benefits aside from those of health, fitness and access to fresh air! As outdoor adventure activities become more commercial, more money is invested in them. This is great for people who participate, as when the market opens up facilities become better and equipment and gear improve with technology and research.

Advances in engineering benefit the end user immensely. For example, those who cycle or mountain bike, can now purchase lighter weight bikes constructed from carbon fiber. Brakes, gears and suspension have undergone significant improvements making them more adaptable to different types of terrain. It is essential, though, that you purchase the correct type of bike for the activity undertaken. For example, when bicycle touring, you should purchase a bike that is essentially a cross between a trekking bike and a racing bike. Touring bikes will have dropped handlebars, mudguards, wider tyres, a third chainring and also the essential rear carrier. The pinnacle of touring bikes is the aptly named Dawes Audax Supreme 2009 Touring Bike. At £800 this is a serious piece of equipment, but for anyone embarking upon a bicycle tour then it is a solid investment.

Clothing and accessories for bicycle touring have also been brought up to speed. Long gone are the days of garish neon Lycra. Today, cyclists are fashionably clad in materials which respond to their body, allowing their skin to breathe whilst protecting them from the elements. Jackets should be lightweight and weather proof. Weather is changeable, so regardless of whether riding in winter or summer ensure you are packing a waterproof jacket. Indeed, choose one with Gor-Tex technology that incorporates strength, durability and breathability. Base layers should hug the body, which ensures sweat and moisture are wicked away from the skin. Base layers, such as leggings, can be particularly useful in winter. Outdoor clothing companies such as Icebreaker and North face have extensive collections of suitable outdoor clothing. Shorts, either baggy or tight, should incorporate a padded seat to protect from `bottom numbness`! Failing this, use padded underwear – Endura coolmax briefs are an ideal example.

Further touring bicycle essentials and accessories include cycling socks, sunglasses, gloves, shoes and helmet. A helmet is of course an essential piece of safety equipment. Choose only the highest quality to ensure optimum protection and opt for ANSI and/or Snell approved.

When bicycle touring you will be utilizing your rear carrier, so try to pack as lightly as possible. As you will be carting around equipment such as a sleeping bag, towel and basic first aid kit, you may have to economize on clothing. Opt for lightweight long sleeved tops which can provide sun cover, as well as keeping you warm in the evenings. For extreme sports inspired clothing, check out ranges from Volcom and Billabong clothing.

Mountain Biking in Cold Weather Requires Preparation

Mountain biking in cold weather brings a whole new challenge and just like any other outdoor activity, extra safety precautions are important. There are a few tips to remember and if followed will make your ride far more enjoyable. There is nothing worse than being on a ride if unprepared for the conditions.

The Right Bike Clothing

Weather can be very unpredictable on high altitude especially during cold season. Be sure that you wear the right types of clothes. Wear extra layers of clothing to keep you warm. Wear waterproof outer shell to keep you dry. In case of rescue, a brightly-colored jacket can be a lifesaver.

Bike Gear

Never ride without a helmet.

1. Wear thick gloves to protects your finger from possible frostbite but make sure that the gloves you wear do not reduce handling and control of the bike.

2. Wear extra pair of socks to keep your feet warm. Take note that if the body experiences extreme cold, blood circulation on lower and upper extremities is reduced, which results to frostbite. Wear cycling shoes or boots a couple of size larger to accommodate the extra pair of socks you need to wear.

3. Freezing winds can cause your eyes to dry making it harder to see and navigate through the road. Wearing sunglasses is a must.

Bike Tools

Never leave without your tool kits and tire repair kit. Breakdowns can happen at anytime, and more likely during extreme weather conditions. Pack a spare inner tube, portable pump, patches, glue, chain kit, and wrenches for nuts and bolts.

Lubrication

Riding in cold weather can cause the suspension to freeze, make it brittle and not work properly. Before setting out for a ride, check if the parts are properly lubricated. Check the overall condition of your bike as well. Do not leave if you see any irregularities on your bike (be it small). It may become a major problem while on the trail. Never attempt to go out if your bike is not designed for cold weather.

Hydration and Food

Cold weather consumes a lot of energy from the body as the body tries to keep up and regulate its temperature. Cold weather also suppresses thirst even if your body requires replenishment. Make sure that you keep hydrated by sipping small amounts of liquid regularly. If you are worried that your water will freeze, use insulation cover for water bottle or just use water hydration pack with bladder. Do not bring cold water. Instead, bring a hot drink. It will keep you hydrated and warm. Eat before and while on the trail. Bring extra food in case of emergency.

Ride Safely

Trails during the winter season can be trickier than ever. There may be some unexpected bends, curves, mud, and dips that can throw you off the bike. Keep your speed in check. Stay on the trail at all times. If you are going to ride alone, make sure that you bring a map, a cellular phone or a satellite phone, a compass, an altimeter or a GPS, and let a friend or relative know where you are going, although I strongly advice that you should not go out there by yourself.

These are just some advices that may save your life. The amount of preparation depends on how far is the trail from your base, how long will you stay on the trail, and how well do you know the trail. Always use your common sense.