Global Sports: Travel Plans

Friday, September 10, 2010

Travel Plans

By Christy Lyons

The rising popularity of mountain biking around the world means that you can travel almost anywhere with your mountain bike and see large parts of your destination from your bike. Unless you are in good shape, you don't have to go for super intense trails.

Tour companies can help you find a good mountain tour. The American West is a popular area. The Southwest area is becoming popular too, with trails in Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada attracting many mountain biking enthusiasts.

You can travel in a group from one point to another. You will need the same supplies and planning as a backpacker. Bring light snacks. Plan accommodation in advance.

You should be realistic about your capabilities. Allow time for rest stops, possible mechanical failure and other unforeseen circumstances, allowing yourself enough time to get to your overnight stop safely.

You won't want to stick to tar roads. Offroad tracks may traverse privately owned farmland, conservation areas and private property. Be careful, as you may need permits for some areas.

Invest in a topographical map. You might be slowed down by steep hills.

Carry light because less stuff will mean a better speed. There are many areas in the United States, most European countries and South Africa that offer a great starting point for mountain biking trips. Find accommodation near several different mountain biking trails, so you return to home base each day having carried nothing but the water, food and tools you need for the day's ride. You can see beautiful parts of the region. Mountain bike enthusiasts will of course tell you that mountain biking gives riders an exceptional perspective of scenery and wildlife that is difficult to achieve from a car window. On top of that, it keeps you in shape!

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