When it comes to cycling the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, one name must be mentioned—Ding Tao, the King of Sichuan-Tibet Cycling. Tonight at midnight, Ding Tao will set off on his 11th ride along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Even more commendable is that in his 10 previous rides, Ding Tao has never suffered any major injuries, and he has his own insights when it comes to safety.
　　Before 2012, Ding Tao worked as a bicycle technician at bike shops and outdoor clubs in Shanghai. Now, he runs his own bicycle studio. “I’ve always worn a helmet when riding, and my bike is reliable. I’m professionally trained, so I can handle issues myself.” Ding Tao’s safety also comes from years of high-altitude cycling experience. “I’m familiar with the road conditions. I know which turns require slowing down.”
　　Controlling speed has always been a key safety point emphasized by Ding Tao. Last year on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, Ding Tao also had a fall, but because he kept his speed well under control, it only resulted in minor abrasions. Although he’s been dubbed the “King of Cycling” by fellow riders, Ding Tao says he doesn’t deliberately chase speed. “The real goal is to enjoy the pleasure of cycling itself.” “Some cyclists love to compete and push themselves too hard—that’s not sustainable. Going too fast at high altitudes can easily lead to exhaustion.” Ding Tao revealed his cycling secret: “I ride over 250 kilometers a day, all at a relatively steady pace. Although it may seem like I’m riding for many hours each day, I don’t get too tired.”
　　For this 8-day Sichuan-Tibet Highway challenge, Ding Tao will still be riding a road bike. Yet, to many cyclists, road bikes don’t seem well-suited for the rugged conditions of the Sichuan-Tibet Highway. “Riding a road bike isn’t much harder than riding a mountain bike. It mainly depends on personal control and familiarity with the bike. Just slow down on rough sections. I’ve even ridden through the gravel roads of the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway—it’s all about being careful.”