What Exactly Is Bicycle Touring? I Have My Bicycle Saddle Bags Now Where Do I Go?

Bike touring is basically travelling large distances on your bike. Seems simple right? Well, we've all seen these guys on the road chugging along like a backpacker heading into the wild. If you're reading this article then you're probably looking for a new and exciting activity and bike touring won't disappoint you.

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Why do people do it? Some people do it as a great form of exercise while being in the outdoors. Many enjoy meeting new people they see on the road or in towns they happen to stop in. Some people ride in groups to bond or get to know each other better. Others like the solitude of riding alone with only their thoughts as company. Although many people state different specific reasons for bike touring ultimately it's to have fun.

Bicycle touring is basically separated into 3 different categories depending on how much weight or lack of weight you're willing to carry. We'll take a look at credit card, ultra-light, or fully loaded bike touring and what makes each unique.

Credit card touring is basically your lightest form of bike travel. Like the name suggests you don't carry much more than a credit card and a change of clothes with you when you ride. All of your meals and hotel stays are paid for by credit card. This type of touring is the best for those of you who enjoy face paced riding.

Ultra-light touring can be best described as toting loads less than 16.5 pounds. Cyclist in this group may want to carry some extra food, clothing and maybe even a light weight tent and sleeping bag. These enthusiasts enjoy a minimal level of self-containment.

Finally, fully-loaded touring is carrying everything you could possibly need when you travel. Items may include clothes, toiletries, sleeping bag, tent, foam sleeping pad, food, camp stove, flashlights etc. This is for the cyclist that enjoys being completely self reliant. I guess I'd compare a fully-loaded cyclist to a backpacker who goes into the back country with everything he needs to survive.

Check out this great article on bicycle saddle bags, or this neat video on choosing the right bike saddle bags and panniers for your needs.

Tags: bicycle saddle bags, bike panniers, bike saddle bags, bike touring, Biking