Expert Answers
Planning a Long Tour
Dennis's Question:
I want to plan a road-cycling trip starting around Philadelphia and ending in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I'm interested mainly in finding out which general routes may be better, but if you have any other tips I would appreciate those, too.
Steve Jones's Answer:
Like you, after a long winter more or less confined to the shorter trips near home, I'm looking forward to getting out and riding some longer routes. And, boy, do you have a challenging trip planned!
I say this not to put you off (because I know you will be going anyway), but to forewarn you that the same attractions that draw you to this route draw literally millions of other riders. Unfortunately, most of those riders are cooped up in cars and trucks. Hopefully, you aren't skittish in heavy traffic.
You don't mention a riding partner, so I will assume you're pedaling south solo. If so, you probably have some experience riding alone on busy roads. If not, my first suggestion is to make a shakedown trip (maybe a weekender) in your general area that will lead you into some urban traffic. (Find two and three-day biking trips in your area with GORP's City Weekenders.) Go fully loaded like you will be when you take the trip to South Carolina -- time in the saddle's the only thing that will give you an idea of the preparations you should make.
Also, check out some of the good stuff found in other areas of GORP. Ethan Gelber's primer on road touring and his skill builder on planning your first bike tour will give you some pointers, as will the Biking Skills/How-to section. You'll find articles on what you may not have thought about, or what maybe you just need a refresher on.
So far as choosing the right route for your experience and tolerance level, check out GORP's Books and Maps section first. If you don't find exactly what you need, click on over to www.adv-cycling.org, where you will find many detailed and recommended routes that are tried and true.
Give these locations some study. If you still have some questions, let me know.
Enjoy your trip!
from Away.com
