Bicycling in Wurzberg, GermanyCredit: Ron Stern, Magellan's Travel Contributor
The ideal time to bicycle is when the weather is cool vs. sweltering and the skies are clear, not showering. In most parts of Europe, that means fall as it’s the season for more predictable good weather.
Touring by bike is one of the most rewarding ways to see a country and meet its people. Pedaling through the countryside puts you in touch with the heart and soul of a place, freed from the crush of urban sightseeing. A well-planned bicycle tour is rewarding and exciting; a poorly-prepared bike tour can be equally full of misery and disaster.
If a European bike tour is on your bucket list, you can go it solo or take advantage of hundreds of cycling tour companies. Planning your own tour takes a fair amount of research and planning, but can be tailored to your individual tastes and agenda. It’s a good option if you have some familiarity with the terrain of the area you’ll be visiting.
Packaged tours are a good option for first timers. Packages come in all tastes for all abilities. Package itineraries are organized by experts that know the area and the bike-friendly routes and accommodations along the way.
Bike-and-ride tours can expand the ground you cover and add comfort. Pairing your cycling with Europe’s extensive rail system allows you to see several locales, moving among them much more efficiently. There are plenty of tour operators and chances are that among them you can find a rail route to the region you want to bike.
When planning, spend time on the Internet, at your local cycling shop, and the nearest bookstore. The more information you have will allow you to refine your selection to choose the tour type that’s right for you. You may even make acquaintances with others who’ve gone before you and can offer first-hand advice.
Bike tour veteran Sheldon Brown recommends starting 16 weeks ahead to plan your itinerary and make your travel arrangements. While you can buy a good touring bike in Europe, he points out that they aren’t any less expensive there, and having your own a couple of months in advance gives you time to get comfortable with both the bike and your abilities. Check with your airline regarding transporting your bicycle. Six to eight weeks before you leave, take some practice runs with the equipment and accessories you’ll carry on your bicycle trip…assess the load and determine if your pack is too unwieldy or too small. That way you’ll have time to find replacement gear if need be.
When you’re ready to buy gear, visit Magellans.com, America’s premier online provider of travel gear and accessories. You’ll find travel-tested luggage, clothing, and accessories that have made Magellan’s the choice of savvy travelers for nearly 25 years. Our easy-to-navigate site has thousands of items to make your travel more comfortable, safe, and rewarding.
While fall in Europe is generally favored with good weather, you’ll inevitably have a rainy day or two. You’ll be glad to have a Rain Logic feather-light, breathable jacket tucked away in your pack. It’s 100% waterproof and windproof with sealed seams, waterproof zippers and drawstrings to keep you snug and dry. It has a hood and a micro-fleece lined collar for extra protection and an internal travel pocket system with a “Tune Tunnel” for your electronics cords.
When you’re off your bike and walking about, the StashSafe 100 GII Hip Pouch keeps your necessities safe with a waist strap and slash-proof fabrication. Roomy compartments include an RFID-blocking pouch to keep your passport and credit card data safe from electronic thieves. And speaking of safety, a RetractaSafe™ Cable Lock is a must for securing your bike, luggage and other valuables when you step away.
Magellan’s offers the finest in compact, lightweight travel gear perfect for biking. Experienced travelers have relied on Magellan’s for nearly 25 years. We’re one of the world’s leading travel accessory companies and we’re committed to making your travel safer, more comfortable and richly rewarding. Browse our online catalog and check out our Deal of the Week and other great sales and specials, too.
Order safely through our online catalog secure in the knowledge that we stand behind our products 100%. If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, we’ll make it right or cheerfully refund your full purchase price.
