Precautions and little bits of experience for long-distance cycling.
The long-distance bicycle travel mentioned here refers to a journey of no less than 1,000 kilometers or lasting at least one week.
Before embarking on a long-distance bicycle trip, it’s important to make the necessary preparations. In terms of equipment, the following points should be addressed: choose a good bicycle; carry out necessary adjustments; prepare common tools; bring adequate and appropriate clothing and essentials. Next comes the aspect of cycling technique.
1. Choosing a Bike
Ideally, a 27-inch flat-handlebar all-terrain bike is best — it’s designed specifically for long-distance cycling. These bikes have frames both front and rear, 21 speeds, and can carry loads up to 150 kilograms (including the rider's weight). The tires can be chosen according to road conditions and load, with options ranging from 1.25 to 1.50 (referring to thickness). Such bikes are currently hard to find in the domestic market, though some individuals may have brought them back from abroad. A suitable alternative is a certain type of mountain bike (also designed with long-distance travel in mind): 26-inch wheels, 21 speeds, load capacity of 120–150 kilograms, tire options between 1.50 and 1.75, equipped with a rear rack, and an option to add a front rack. It comes with three water bottle cages (and you can add more). If you’ll be riding mainly on asphalt roads, you can also use a regular 27-inch drop-handlebar touring bike with thin tires (1.25 width), which has a rear rack. Riding it is quite light and easy, making it suitable for long-distance trips with not too much gear.
2. Bike Adjustment
Normally, during a bicycle trip, you ride while taking in the sights, enjoying freedom, and speed isn’t the most critical factor. What matters most is convenience and comfort. Adjust your bike accordingly. Saddle: When the rider rests their armpit at the center of the saddle and reaches down to touch the center of the crank axle, they should just be able to touch it — this is the correct saddle height. The handlebar and saddle should ideally be level, with a height difference of no more than half an inch. Check that the drivetrain runs smoothly and that both the front and rear brakes are responsive. You can place some puncture sealant inside both the inner and outer tubes; if there’s a leak, inspect and remove any sharp objects, then position the puncture facing downward, inflate fully, and the sealant will automatically plug the hole. Another method is to place a thick piece of canvas between the inner and outer tubes.
3. Tools
As long as you prepare sufficiently before the trip and adjust your bike correctly, you likely won’t encounter major issues on the road. But just in case, you should also bring some tools and spare parts that match your bicycle. Examples include scissors, a small wood file, an adjustable wrench, a portable bike pump (one that can be mounted on the bike), glue, pre-cut pieces of rubber patches, and one inner tube and one outer tube for emergencies.
4. Clothing
Long-distance bicycle trips are usually undertaken in summer, so it’s best to wear cycling shorts. Their advantage is a snug fit that doesn’t create extra wind resistance. Cycling pants come with real or synthetic leather padding to prevent chafing and allow ventilation. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, waterproof gear is essential. There are now cycling suits on the market that provide warmth, wind protection, and rain resistance — ideal for areas with changeable weather, though they can be expensive. If you don’t have cycling clothes, especially cycling shorts, you can opt for high-elasticity smooth shorts. These should sit directly against your skin without any additional layers underneath. It’s best to apply some petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) to areas that are prone to friction. In cold weather, you can line your chest with one or two sheets of newspaper for excellent insulation. To guard against wind and insects, wear cycling glasses. Clear ones are suitable for overcast days; tinted ones protect against direct sunlight; and pale yellow-tinted ones are designed for night riding. A helmet is something some travelers prefer for safety in case of accidents. In reality, a simple cycling cap is more practical, comfortable, and economical. Cycling gloves help prevent slipping and chafing — whether you need them depends on the individual. Shoe covers not only help maintain the correct foot positioning but can also help you save energy. Of course, if you’re not used to them or don’t know how to use them properly, it’s better not to use them — otherwise, they may cause tension and actually reduce safety.
5. Cycling Technique
The above points can be considered the “hardware” aspects, while cycling technique is the “software,” so mastering proper cycling skills is crucial. Control your cycling speed, aiming for nasal breathing (inhaling and exhaling through the nose). When traveling in dry areas, you can apply a bit of petroleum jelly inside your nostrils to prevent dryness and ensure smooth breathing. If you need to breathe through your mouth, it means the intensity is too high or you're tired — in which case, you should slow down and adjust your gears. When going uphill or downhill, avoid shifting through multiple gears at once (a common mistake among those unfamiliar with gear shifting), as this can cause sudden discomfort and fatigue. When going downhill, you can relax your body and coast. If the slope is too steep or the speed becomes too fast, use the rear brake to slow down. Unless it’s an emergency, don’t slam the brakes — doing so can cause significant damage to the outer tire. Finally, before undertaking a long-distance bicycle trip, it’s a good idea to take a few short one- or two-day rides during holidays to gradually get accustomed to the demands of longer journeys.