Bicycle tourism is a form of tourism that involves traveling by bicycle. It can be done for recreation, pleasure or exercise, and is often combined with other forms of tourism, such as camping, backpacking or sightseeing.
Most types of bike tourism fall under these main categories (which often overlap), and can include road, gravel and mountain biking:
Bicycle travel/touring: Independently-organized, multi-day bicycle tours.
Examples: Bike overnights, Adventure Cycling routes, long distance trails like the Katy Trail
Events: Organized rides, tours, and races.
Examples: Cyclocross races, tours like RAGBRAI or Cycle Oregon, Tour de France
Destination riding: Rides centered around a particular destination or niche attraction.
Examples: Utah’s slick rock mountain biking, touring California’s wine country, or fat biking in Minnesota
Day rides and urban cycling: Often spontaneous day tours of local/urban attractions.
Examples: bike share, urban brewery tours, “Slow Roll” rides
There are many benefits to bicycle tourism. It is a low-impact form of travel that is good for your health and the environment. It is also an inexpensive way to see the world. You can go at your own pace and stop whenever you want to take in the scenery or visit a place of interest.
Bicycle touring is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. You will often find yourself sharing meals and stories with other cyclists on the road.
If you are thinking of embarking on a bicycle touring adventure, there are a few things you need to consider. First, you will need to choose the right bike for the trip. A touring bike is a good option as it is designed for long distances and carrying luggage. You will also need to plan your route and make sure you have enough food and water.
No matter what type of bicycle tourism you’re interested in, there are many benefits to be gained from it. Here are just a few:
Health Benefits
Cycling is a great form of exercise. It’s low-impact, so it’s easy on your joints, and it can be done at any fitness level. Just a few hours of cycling each week can help you lose weight, tone your muscles, and improve your cardiovascular health.
Environmental Benefits
Bicycle tourism is also good for the environment. Since it doesn’t require any fossil fuels, it helps reduce emissions and pollution. And, since you’re not taking a car or flying, you’re also saving resources like oil and gas.
Economic Benefits
Bicycle tourism can also be good for the economy. When you cycle instead of drive, you’re saving money on things like gasoline and car maintenance. And, since cycling is often cheaper than other forms of travel, it can free up your budget to spend on other things while you’re on vacation.
Bicycle tourism can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. It is a great way to see the world at your own pace and enjoy the outdoors. With a little planning, you can have an unforgettable adventure.
