6 Reasons to Attend Bike Touring Events to Explore New Places
Mar 27, 2023
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People are increasingly taking up cycling, whether it’s for exercise or as a convenient way to get from A to B. Yet bike tours, the lesser-known cousin of the daily cycling commute, are often ignored as an option to explore new places.
But here’s the kicker: bike touring events are perhaps the most interesting and fulfilling when it comes to seeing the world. They present a unique opportunity to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. And there’s so much more to it, too.
Cycling = Fantastic Exercise
Approximately 70% of Americans do not cycle, and only 10% do over 100 miles per year. To put this into perspective: the average Dutch resident cycles an average of over 600 miles per year.
Unsurprisingly, the Netherlands ranks higher than the United States on pretty much every metric when it comes to health. You see, cycling is fantastic exercise, amongst the best activities out there, and going on a bike tour takes you to yet another level.
Instead of gorging on food and drink, you will focus on what’s best for your time on the saddle (although you can always treat yourself too!). No taxis or tour buses, but you and your two wheels. And in order to keep your body supple and flexible, you’ll do yoga and stretching exercises instead of cocktails at the pool.
It’s Great for Beginners
If you’re someone who doesn’t often get the bike out of the garage, bike touring events present the perfect opportunity to get started. Most events will cater specifically to beginners, meaning you don’t have to worry about not being a very confident cyclist.
Not only will you get a fantastic welcome from organizers, but fellow cyclists (of all levels of experience) are always keen to bring new people into the fold. Don’t worry about how good your bike is, whether your kit is snazzy enough, or if you are fast enough to keep up. There will be a place for you, guaranteed.
Get To Know Fellow Cyclists!
Cycling tends to be a group sport, so if you’ve just been doing solo rides, you may miss out. Bike touring events give you the opportunity to get to know fellow cycling enthusiasts and experience the cycling community firsthand.
Whether you’re cycling alone or with a group, it’s always fun to make new connections. And don’t think there’s pressure to become super involved in a club or activities outside the tour itself. If you’re not keen, you can do your own thing.
Bike Touring = Higher Participation
According to a 2006 study on mass community cycling events, the effects last long after the tour ends. For example, those with a self-rated low cycling ability increased their cycling by over 50% following an event. And for first-time participants, average sessions per month went up from 7.2 to 8.9.
There are a couple of reasons for this. The most important one is that group cycling is just fun. Being part of a wider event, meeting many people from different backgrounds, and enjoying the physical activity encourage cyclists to sign up for the next one!
Everything is Organized
The daunting thing about organizing your own bike tour, especially if you’ve never done one before, is the sheer amount of moving parts. There’s figuring out the route for every day, the accommodation options, where to stop for a decent break, you name it.
When you join an organized bike tour event, however, the difficult parts are done for you. It takes the heavy lifting off your hands, letting you enjoy being outdoors without the stress of organizing every aspect of your trip. However, if you’re still indecisive, compare bike tour events and self-guided tours. You’ll find what works for you.
Your Tour, Your Way
Before we go, remember this: bike tours don’t necessarily have to be thousands of miles long, an arduous journey spanning several states, countries, and climatic conditions. Sure, it can be that, but it can also be a leisurely weekend trip in a place close to home.
If you think that touring event your friends keep telling you about sounds a little tricky opt for a beginner’s level instead. Want to take your cycling to the next level and would like a challenge? There’s plenty of that also. It’s your tour, so pick one that lets you do it your way.