Traveling by bike, a concept also known as cycle touring, involves setting out to discover a region or country on two wheels (bicycle, mountain bike, etc.). Dating back to the late 19th century, bike travel has continued to develop and welcomes an ever-growing number of enthusiasts. Today, some have even decided to embark on a world tour by bike!

In addition to promoting sustainable tourism, cycle touring offers many other advantages that we'll explore in this article. It is now much easier to organize a bike trip, particularly thanks to the development of infrastructure in France and abroad, as well as through travel agencies that offer well-organized cycling tours. In India, you can explore Rajasthan or Kerala accompanied by your bike!

Traveling by Bike: What's the Purpose?

• Cycling, in addition to being a relatively simple activity, is excellent for your health and cardiovascular system.
• On a bike, the pace is quite slow (much more so than by car or train), and you can discover and appreciate every landscape you pass through during your entire journey.
• This type of travel fosters encounters, particularly with locals who are delighted to welcome tourists promoting this kind of travel and will go out of their way to welcome you.
• Biking is highly eco-friendly and pollution-free, contributing to the preservation of unique territories affected by mass tourism.
• Traveling by bike means being part of a community, where encounters and mutual support are abundant, and it's always a pleasure to share your experiences.
• Finally, you'll experience the satisfaction of pushing your limits and reaching your goals, especially during challenging stages that demand physical effort, and the sense of wonder at the landscapes before you will be all the more profound.

Preparing Your Bike Trip: Our Tips

• First, you need to purchase the necessary equipment. These purchases are a real investment since you'll be spending several weeks on your bike, so it's important to choose sturdy and compact gear. Beyond the bike itself, select your saddle carefully, as well as paniers and all other necessary equipment (repair kit, etc.).
• Choose the right time depending on your destination, avoiding extreme heat and cold, and be mindful of rainy seasons! Of course, weather is unpredictable, but research the typical weather patterns of the region you wish to visit.
• Plan your route in advance, so you know where you're headed even if unexpected changes arise.
• Check elevation maps beforehand, so you're not caught off guard once you arrive, as climbs can be quite physically demanding with the extra weight on your bike.
• Research road conditions and traffic. In some countries like India, traffic conditions are very different from Europe, and you'll likely encounter many unpaved roads that aren't necessarily smooth.
• Adapt your pace—this isn't a race! Generally, you can plan 30 to 60 kilometers daily, and experienced riders can even cover 100 km per day! But take time to enjoy the scenery without overexerting yourself, and plan rest days into your week.
• Budget according to each country. The cost of living is significantly lower in Southeast Asian countries than in Europe, for example.
• Learn about how locals welcome tourists. Some people may not be particularly open to visitors and might seem cold, or conversely, they could become wonderful memories of your trip!
• Read testimonials from people who have already traveled to the country, preferably by bike, to get an idea of what to expect, even if your experience will certainly be unique.
• Test your bike before departure to avoid any unwelcome surprises on the road.
• Download necessary apps like WarmShowers, Google Maps, TrackMyTour, etc.
• Learn basic bike mechanics, which will save you significant time in case of a puncture, for example.
• Be prepared for the unexpected! On a bike, you certainly won't be able to stick to your itinerary perfectly! You'll depend on many unpredictable factors, but that's precisely what makes cycle touring so charming!

How to Organize Your Bike Journey

• First, prepare everything needed to pack and protect your bike at the airport. It will almost certainly be rough-handled during transport, so protect it as much as possible if you don't want it to arrive damaged! There are many protection options available, from simple to elaborate, at all price points. If you don't want to invest in a specialized bike bag, you'll find practical packing techniques using bubble wrap and plastic film!

• Regarding accommodation, you have several options:
  • With local families, the best way to discover local culture and get to know residents. For this, you can use apps like WarmShowers or simply knock on doors.
  • Camping, though this requires some precautions, particularly in less developed countries where wild camping is highly discouraged (theft, safety concerns, etc.).
  • Hotels or hostels, the most hassle-free option that gives you independence. You should, however, be very careful with your belongings and avoid leaving them unattended or in plain sight.

• Finally, food is the essence of a successful trip with plenty of energy. Your diet is your choice, and depends on your budget too. Of course, if you're staying with local families, you can taste local cuisine without extra expense. Otherwise, you can prepare your own meals by shopping at supermarkets or gathering fresh fruits and vegetables you find along the way. In that case, bring the necessary cooking equipment, especially if you plan to camp.

Whether traveling as a family, couple, or solo, bike travel is a unique experience offering the sense of freedom so many seek. This way, you discover the world as it truly is, and you can sometimes even traverse regions inaccessible by any other means of transport. Ready to give it a try? Explore our cycling tours to discover India from a different perspective.