Hi there,
We’re leaving from Montreal and planning to bike the Petit Train du Nord route.
Any ideas for loops so we don’t have to return the same way?
We’re thinking of a one-week trip.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Rachel
Hi there,
I’m currently looking for a bike to do my first bike trip across France, with the ultimate goal of cycling through Latin America. I’ve got a lot of questions and I’d love to hear if you have any answers or advice to share. First off, I’ve been through this before with hiking. I want to get top-quality gear right away. When I started hiking, I ended up buying everything three times—first beginner gear, then intermediate, then expert, etc. For biking, I’d prefer to skip that process and invest right now in a bike that could ideally handle Latin America. I’ve set a total max budget of around 5000 € (roughly 4000–4500 € for the bike and the rest for accessories: panniers, helmet, cycling shorts, etc.).
So, I’ve got quite a few questions:
* I’ve read in several places that some people recommend buying the bike directly in Latin America. Since I need a first bike to train in Europe, would it be better to buy an entry-level bike in France (and sell it before the big departure)? Or is it preferable to start right away with my final bike to get used to it? Is buying it there just to save a bit of money?
* For a long-term trip (around six months) in Latin America, is it better to go for a gravel bike or a mountain bike?
* Should I buy a new bike or a refurbished one? Even more so given that I’m planning a long trip—could a refurbished bike end up causing more breakdowns?
If you have any advice on models, technical features to prioritize, or recommended sellers or resellers, I’d love to hear it. I’m a total beginner—I’ve only just started watching videos and reading up on the subject, and all the technical specs are new to me!
Thanks in advance for your help!
I’m currently looking for a bike to do my first bike trip across France, with the ultimate goal of cycling through Latin America. I’ve got a lot of questions and I’d love to hear if you have any answers or advice to share. First off, I’ve been through this before with hiking. I want to get top-quality gear right away. When I started hiking, I ended up buying everything three times—first beginner gear, then intermediate, then expert, etc. For biking, I’d prefer to skip that process and invest right now in a bike that could ideally handle Latin America. I’ve set a total max budget of around 5000 € (roughly 4000–4500 € for the bike and the rest for accessories: panniers, helmet, cycling shorts, etc.).
So, I’ve got quite a few questions:
* I’ve read in several places that some people recommend buying the bike directly in Latin America. Since I need a first bike to train in Europe, would it be better to buy an entry-level bike in France (and sell it before the big departure)? Or is it preferable to start right away with my final bike to get used to it? Is buying it there just to save a bit of money?
* For a long-term trip (around six months) in Latin America, is it better to go for a gravel bike or a mountain bike?
* Should I buy a new bike or a refurbished one? Even more so given that I’m planning a long trip—could a refurbished bike end up causing more breakdowns?
If you have any advice on models, technical features to prioritize, or recommended sellers or resellers, I’d love to hear it. I’m a total beginner—I’ve only just started watching videos and reading up on the subject, and all the technical specs are new to me!
Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi fellow travelers! I’m planning a trip to Japan from March 22 to April 12 and really want to bike the Shimanami Kaido starting from Onomichi, but I don’t cycle regularly. Has anyone here done it and could share their experience or tips? Is the weather in March-April favorable? Should I plan for 2 or 3 days? Electric or regular bike? What’s better—having my luggage forwarded along the route or leaving it in a locker? Any recommendations for accommodations or bike rentals? Thanks in advance for your replies!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a cycling trip in Algeria and looking for concrete firsthand accounts from cyclists who’ve recently traveled there (or residents who know the terrain well). My goal is to map out a realistic 2–4 week itinerary that prioritizes discovery, safety, and solid water/bivouac management.
My profile and gear
Semi-bivouac autonomous cyclist (light tent + sleeping bag + stove), with the option of simple accommodations in towns.
All-road/gravel bike with a rear rack, 40–45 mm tires (I can go up to 47–50 mm if needed).
Compact drivetrain with a small gear range for climbing while loaded.
Modular water capacity of 4–7 liters (soft flasks + bottles), plus a filter and purification tablets as backup.
Navigation via offline maps + GPS, GPX tracks if available.
Planned period
Late winter/early spring (timing to be refined based on your feedback about weather, wind, and day/night temperature swings). I’d love a seasonal breakdown: which areas are more pleasant/rideable during this time? Are there zones to avoid while others become ideal?
Preferred itinerary style
High plateaus and accessible Saharan fringes for a loaded bike, alternating between secondary roads and rideable tracks.
Moderate pace (60–90 km/day depending on terrain and wind), with stops in resource towns to restock, shower, and rest.
Safety and logistics (water/supplies) take priority over pure athletic performance.
My specific questions for those who’ve cycled in Algeria 1) Routes and areas
Which roads/tracks did you enjoy for their scenery and interest without being too rough for a loaded gravel bike?
If you’ve ridden the high plateaus: which connections do you recommend to avoid traffic and stick to small roads?
Saharan fringes: which sections are realistic for partial autonomy (reasonably spaced water points, rideable tracks, not too much soft sand)?
Areas to avoid by bike (recently) due to security, road conditions, katabatic winds, construction, etc.?
2) Water and supplies
How frequent were water points on your routes: reliable wells? taps? sources in towns/villages?
In “desert” sections, how many liters did you carry between secure points? Does a 6–7 L capacity seem comfortable, or should I aim for more on certain stretches?
Food: small shops, markets, availability of basics (semolina, sardines, dates, biscuits, powdered milk, etc.) — how often can you reasonably restock?
Filtration: did a filter + tablets suffice? Are there areas where you’d advise against filtering from unprotected wells?
3) Bivouacking and accommodations
Tolerance for discreet bivouacking (far from dwellings, leave-no-trace): recent experiences?
Simple alternatives: guesthouses, small hotels/hostels, campgrounds (if any), municipal lodgings?
Practical stopover towns for restocking, resting, and securing your bike overnight: reliable spots or neighborhoods to prioritize/avoid?
4) Roads, tracks, and weather
Road surface quality on secondary routes: generally decent or highly variable?
Tracks: rideable (compact gravel, laterite) or sometimes sand/washboard? At what tire width would you recommend switching (45 vs. 50 mm)?
Prevailing winds this season: direction, strength, most exposed hours; do you adjust your departures to ride “before the wind” in the morning?
Temperatures: day/night range; sun protection (long gloves, buff, sunscreen, sunglasses), managing nighttime cold at altitude or in the open desert.
5) Safety, formalities, and connectivity
Recently discouraged zones (please note the date if possible).
Roadside checks: which documents to keep handy; are there specific registrations or declarations required upon arrival or when moving between wilayas?
Local SIM/data: which operators work well on the routes you took; tips for recharging/buying credit.
Useful apps/maps on the ground (and reliable offline maps) for locating water, grocery stores, garages, accommodations, rideable segments, etc.
Bike security: how did you handle anti-theft and parking during errands/overnight stays?
6) Gear and adjustments
Recommended minimum gearing for loaded climbs on local roads/tracks.
Ideal tire width and casing (puncture resistance on gravel and rocks).
“Sweet spot” water capacity based on your experience (and tips: frame bags, extra bottles on the fork, bladders in frame bags, etc.).
Maintenance: dust/sand — greases/seals, drivetrain cleaning frequency, breathable filters, protective socks for zipped panniers.
Sample itinerary outline (to validate with your feedback)
Week 1: Arrival, adjustments, high plateaus, linking resource towns to get into the rhythm, test supplies and water.
Week 2: Accessible Saharan fringes, alternating road/track, nights in discreet bivouac when possible + simple accommodations every 3–4 days.
Week 3–4 (optional): Extend toward a second Saharan area or head back to a more temperate zone depending on weather/wind, prioritizing routes known to cyclists.
If you have GPX tracks (even partial), waypoints (water, grocery stores, accommodations), or a travel journal with dates, I’d love to see them. Dated info (year/month) will help me weigh what may have changed recently.
What I can share in return
After the trip, I’ll publish a detailed report with:
Final itinerary + cleaned GPX tracks,
List of confirmed water points and open supply spots,
Gear review (tires, gearing, water capacity),
Notes on bivouacking/accommodations and safety,
Budget and daily distances, to help future travelers.
Thanks in advance for your tips, warnings, good addresses, and updated feedback. Your experience is invaluable for planning a safe, smooth, and enjoyable cycling route in Algeria. Happy trails! 🚴
I’m planning a cycling trip in Algeria and looking for concrete firsthand accounts from cyclists who’ve recently traveled there (or residents who know the terrain well). My goal is to map out a realistic 2–4 week itinerary that prioritizes discovery, safety, and solid water/bivouac management.
My profile and gear
Semi-bivouac autonomous cyclist (light tent + sleeping bag + stove), with the option of simple accommodations in towns.
All-road/gravel bike with a rear rack, 40–45 mm tires (I can go up to 47–50 mm if needed).
Compact drivetrain with a small gear range for climbing while loaded.
Modular water capacity of 4–7 liters (soft flasks + bottles), plus a filter and purification tablets as backup.
Navigation via offline maps + GPS, GPX tracks if available.
Planned period
Late winter/early spring (timing to be refined based on your feedback about weather, wind, and day/night temperature swings). I’d love a seasonal breakdown: which areas are more pleasant/rideable during this time? Are there zones to avoid while others become ideal?
Preferred itinerary style
High plateaus and accessible Saharan fringes for a loaded bike, alternating between secondary roads and rideable tracks.
Moderate pace (60–90 km/day depending on terrain and wind), with stops in resource towns to restock, shower, and rest.
Safety and logistics (water/supplies) take priority over pure athletic performance.
My specific questions for those who’ve cycled in Algeria 1) Routes and areas
Which roads/tracks did you enjoy for their scenery and interest without being too rough for a loaded gravel bike?
If you’ve ridden the high plateaus: which connections do you recommend to avoid traffic and stick to small roads?
Saharan fringes: which sections are realistic for partial autonomy (reasonably spaced water points, rideable tracks, not too much soft sand)?
Areas to avoid by bike (recently) due to security, road conditions, katabatic winds, construction, etc.?
2) Water and supplies
How frequent were water points on your routes: reliable wells? taps? sources in towns/villages?
In “desert” sections, how many liters did you carry between secure points? Does a 6–7 L capacity seem comfortable, or should I aim for more on certain stretches?
Food: small shops, markets, availability of basics (semolina, sardines, dates, biscuits, powdered milk, etc.) — how often can you reasonably restock?
Filtration: did a filter + tablets suffice? Are there areas where you’d advise against filtering from unprotected wells?
3) Bivouacking and accommodations
Tolerance for discreet bivouacking (far from dwellings, leave-no-trace): recent experiences?
Simple alternatives: guesthouses, small hotels/hostels, campgrounds (if any), municipal lodgings?
Practical stopover towns for restocking, resting, and securing your bike overnight: reliable spots or neighborhoods to prioritize/avoid?
4) Roads, tracks, and weather
Road surface quality on secondary routes: generally decent or highly variable?
Tracks: rideable (compact gravel, laterite) or sometimes sand/washboard? At what tire width would you recommend switching (45 vs. 50 mm)?
Prevailing winds this season: direction, strength, most exposed hours; do you adjust your departures to ride “before the wind” in the morning?
Temperatures: day/night range; sun protection (long gloves, buff, sunscreen, sunglasses), managing nighttime cold at altitude or in the open desert.
5) Safety, formalities, and connectivity
Recently discouraged zones (please note the date if possible).
Roadside checks: which documents to keep handy; are there specific registrations or declarations required upon arrival or when moving between wilayas?
Local SIM/data: which operators work well on the routes you took; tips for recharging/buying credit.
Useful apps/maps on the ground (and reliable offline maps) for locating water, grocery stores, garages, accommodations, rideable segments, etc.
Bike security: how did you handle anti-theft and parking during errands/overnight stays?
6) Gear and adjustments
Recommended minimum gearing for loaded climbs on local roads/tracks.
Ideal tire width and casing (puncture resistance on gravel and rocks).
“Sweet spot” water capacity based on your experience (and tips: frame bags, extra bottles on the fork, bladders in frame bags, etc.).
Maintenance: dust/sand — greases/seals, drivetrain cleaning frequency, breathable filters, protective socks for zipped panniers.
Sample itinerary outline (to validate with your feedback)
Week 1: Arrival, adjustments, high plateaus, linking resource towns to get into the rhythm, test supplies and water.
Week 2: Accessible Saharan fringes, alternating road/track, nights in discreet bivouac when possible + simple accommodations every 3–4 days.
Week 3–4 (optional): Extend toward a second Saharan area or head back to a more temperate zone depending on weather/wind, prioritizing routes known to cyclists.
If you have GPX tracks (even partial), waypoints (water, grocery stores, accommodations), or a travel journal with dates, I’d love to see them. Dated info (year/month) will help me weigh what may have changed recently.
What I can share in return
After the trip, I’ll publish a detailed report with:
Final itinerary + cleaned GPX tracks,
List of confirmed water points and open supply spots,
Gear review (tires, gearing, water capacity),
Notes on bivouacking/accommodations and safety,
Budget and daily distances, to help future travelers.
Thanks in advance for your tips, warnings, good addresses, and updated feedback. Your experience is invaluable for planning a safe, smooth, and enjoyable cycling route in Algeria. Happy trails! 🚴
Hi everyone,
We’re planning to spend 5 months cycling as a family in Central Asia. To align with the weather, we’re thinking of arriving in Uzbekistan in April, heading toward the Ferghana Valley in late April/early May, and wrapping up with a long stretch in Kyrgyzstan from mid-May to early August.
I haven’t really dug into the third part (Kyrgyzstan) yet, but from what I’ve seen on the forum and online, cycling across Uzbekistan doesn’t seem all that appealing: long, straight desert stretches with lots of trucks.
Has anyone come across any "hidden gem" routes they’d be willing to share? I’ve already noted that it’s best to avoid riding toward Tashkent. I’m looking for routes between Bukhara and Samarkand, and any nearby areas that are nice for cycling.
I’d love to fly into Dushanbe to reach Samarkand, but we all agree that it’s not a good fit for the season (early April) if we’re cycling, right?
Thanks for your feedback! Ludo
I haven’t really dug into the third part (Kyrgyzstan) yet, but from what I’ve seen on the forum and online, cycling across Uzbekistan doesn’t seem all that appealing: long, straight desert stretches with lots of trucks.
Has anyone come across any "hidden gem" routes they’d be willing to share? I’ve already noted that it’s best to avoid riding toward Tashkent. I’m looking for routes between Bukhara and Samarkand, and any nearby areas that are nice for cycling.
I’d love to fly into Dushanbe to reach Samarkand, but we all agree that it’s not a good fit for the season (early April) if we’re cycling, right?
Thanks for your feedback! Ludo
The RandoCamping site is free for users and hosts.
Its goal is to help trekkers find accommodations (usually by the night) all across France and to promote hosts who welcome trekkers satisfactorily.
Check it out here: https://randocamping.touteslatitudes.fr
The site is collaborative and supported by associations like Cyclo-Camping International or AF3V.
It lets you plan a trip or trek (on foot or by bike) by searching for accommodations along a route. The accommodations come from the DataTourisme platform (which aggregates information from Tourist Offices) and from users (trekkers & hosts).
Train lines and passenger stations are also listed. Clicking on a station can show you (if the data is available) how accessible the platforms are with a non-dismantled bike. Bike and hiking routes come from Waymarked Trails (which is based on OpenStreetMap).
You can find more details about the site’s features on this page (version 1.0): https://randovelo.touteslatitudes.fr/randocamping-v1/
Its goal is to help trekkers find accommodations (usually by the night) all across France and to promote hosts who welcome trekkers satisfactorily.
Check it out here: https://randocamping.touteslatitudes.fr
The site is collaborative and supported by associations like Cyclo-Camping International or AF3V.
It lets you plan a trip or trek (on foot or by bike) by searching for accommodations along a route. The accommodations come from the DataTourisme platform (which aggregates information from Tourist Offices) and from users (trekkers & hosts).
Train lines and passenger stations are also listed. Clicking on a station can show you (if the data is available) how accessible the platforms are with a non-dismantled bike. Bike and hiking routes come from Waymarked Trails (which is based on OpenStreetMap).
You can find more details about the site’s features on this page (version 1.0): https://randovelo.touteslatitudes.fr/randocamping-v1/
I'm developing a free and open-source web app for planning walking and cycling trips (and even car trips). You can create a route by clicking directly on the map to add waypoints, and it can consist of multiple stages. The app provides tools to edit the stages and the overall route, and to display useful information (distances, altitudes, and elevation changes). A relief profile can be shown as a graph for a specific stage or the entire route.
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
Source code: https://github.com/patricklmarie/GPX-Route-Planner Online demo: https://patricklmarie.github.io/GPX-Route-Planner/
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
Source code: https://github.com/patricklmarie/GPX-Route-Planner Online demo: https://patricklmarie.github.io/GPX-Route-Planner/
Hello young cycling enthusiasts,
I’m starting a thread about the bike route known as venaissia.
Claudio took advantage of this February 2026’s mild weather to check out what it looks like.
Here we go—story and photos coming soon: http://cbandiera.free.fr/recits/2026-venaissia/
The plan was to go from Faverges to Cavaillon and explore the Via Venaissia a bit. A crazy idea? Maybe, but don’t forget that the month of February—"februare" in Latin—means "to purify," so it’s the Month of the Lupercalia, a Roman festival that was a purification rite. So, to purify himself after the feasts of the Saturnalia, Claudio set off (from an oak tree, no less) to pedal south.
He returned a little soaked but alive: The stages were as follows: (to be continued)
overall impression:
good signage, but Claudio still managed to get lost in cities like Orange and Carpentras...
Cavaillon... got lost several times, but thanks to the map and GPS, he got back on track...
Nice route, sometimes a bit boring, quiet, deserted (normal given the weather), threatening skies, but he escaped the rain.
Claudio took advantage of this February 2026’s mild weather to check out what it looks like.
Here we go—story and photos coming soon: http://cbandiera.free.fr/recits/2026-venaissia/
The plan was to go from Faverges to Cavaillon and explore the Via Venaissia a bit. A crazy idea? Maybe, but don’t forget that the month of February—"februare" in Latin—means "to purify," so it’s the Month of the Lupercalia, a Roman festival that was a purification rite. So, to purify himself after the feasts of the Saturnalia, Claudio set off (from an oak tree, no less) to pedal south.
He returned a little soaked but alive: The stages were as follows: (to be continued)
overall impression:
good signage, but Claudio still managed to get lost in cities like Orange and Carpentras...
Cavaillon... got lost several times, but thanks to the map and GPS, he got back on track...
Nice route, sometimes a bit boring, quiet, deserted (normal given the weather), threatening skies, but he escaped the rain.Hi everyone here who loves cycling,
I’m planning a 5-week trip next January in Uganda: a little tour of 1,200 to 1,500 km crossing the most beautiful spots and reserves in the country. Route to be defined together.
I’m looking for someone to join me.
Interested? Nicolas (72 years old)
Travel site: nicolas.saulnier.free.fr
Interested? Nicolas (72 years old)
Travel site: nicolas.saulnier.free.fr
Hi,
A friend is looking for a bike to embark on a long trip, but the issue is he’s only 1.55m tall.
In itself, that’s not a problem 😏, except that finding an XS-sized touring bike isn’t easy.
Some start at 1.55m, but it’s still a bit extreme.
If anyone knows of brands or models that might work...
Thanks in advance
Great news that the forum is back—we’ve been waiting for this for ages! Now we can chat again with the die-hards like Claudio, Luc Bertand, and everyone else...
Voyager à vélo
Coming soon:
https://www.Biclou.com/parcours/durance/
Starting from Faverges: 900 km over 9 days
Here’s the detailed Durance route starting from Briançon
Here’s the detailed Durance route starting from Briançon
Hi everyone,
I’m seriously considering going bikepacking with my Brompton (6-speed model) on a mixed route of roads and bike paths for a trip lasting a few days or even a week.
I know the Brompton isn’t the typical touring bike, but its compactness and practicality really appeal to me for combining train + bike travel and staying super mobile.
I’ve got a few questions, and I’d love to hear your experiences or tips:
What panniers or luggage setup do you recommend for a Brompton in travel mode? Have you run into any specific limitations (comfort, carrying capacity, elevation gain, etc.)? Should I adjust any components (tires, gearing, saddle) to make it more durable for multi-day trips? Do you prefer wild camping or lightweight accommodations (hostels, campsites, etc.) with this kind of setup? Finally: what types of routes do you think a Brompton handles well? (And what should I absolutely avoid?)
I’d love to chat with others who’ve tried (or are considering) the Brompton bikepacking adventure. Thanks in advance for your insights! 🚴♂️ Happy riding,
What panniers or luggage setup do you recommend for a Brompton in travel mode? Have you run into any specific limitations (comfort, carrying capacity, elevation gain, etc.)? Should I adjust any components (tires, gearing, saddle) to make it more durable for multi-day trips? Do you prefer wild camping or lightweight accommodations (hostels, campsites, etc.) with this kind of setup? Finally: what types of routes do you think a Brompton handles well? (And what should I absolutely avoid?)
I’d love to chat with others who’ve tried (or are considering) the Brompton bikepacking adventure. Thanks in advance for your insights! 🚴♂️ Happy riding,
Hi there,
No recent discussion here on the topic (2025).
Anyone else interested?
Hi everyone, could someone give me info on the track that starts from Tafraout toward M’harch Pass and then continues to Mcissi to join the national road heading west to Alnif? I’m planning to go in April 2025 by gravel bike/MTB. Is it doable? Is there a lot of soft sand??? How many km???? Thanks for any tips, and happy end of the year to all! Best, Rv.
Hello fellow cycle-tourers!
First post on this site for our first big family cycling adventure with our two teens (12 and 16 years old) over 2 months. We're preparing to leave in June/July from Erdeven by bike, then take the train from Auray to Paris, followed by a FlixBus from Paris to Copenhagen with our 4 bikes. After that, we're looking to refine our route: Should we go to Sweden via Helsingborg and then head up to Stockholm along the west or east coast? Maybe passing through the Gotland islands, then via the Åland Islands, why not Turku? Then off to Estonia to Tallinn, ride a bit along the coast, and return by bus if we can find one that takes 4 bikes. :))
Could you share any tips on routes in Sweden: west coast or east coast to prioritize in the south? We’ve heard it’s a shame not to go up to Norway, but we’re worried about the elevation and don’t see how to make a loop work in our 2 months / 1500 km. Any ideas? And the southern Finnish coast: should we go all the way to Helsinki or not? Maybe at the expense of Estonia?
In short, we know choosing means giving something up, but if we can do it with advice from fellow cyclists, that would be amazing! Thanks in advance for your tips! Anne-Sophie and the whole Breton family: David, Axel, and Maude
Could you share any tips on routes in Sweden: west coast or east coast to prioritize in the south? We’ve heard it’s a shame not to go up to Norway, but we’re worried about the elevation and don’t see how to make a loop work in our 2 months / 1500 km. Any ideas? And the southern Finnish coast: should we go all the way to Helsinki or not? Maybe at the expense of Estonia?
In short, we know choosing means giving something up, but if we can do it with advice from fellow cyclists, that would be amazing! Thanks in advance for your tips! Anne-Sophie and the whole Breton family: David, Axel, and Maude
Hi there,
I’ve been road cycling for several years, and I’m about to switch to gravel in the next few days—I’m waiting for my bike, which should arrive this week.
I’m planning a bikepacking trip in a few weeks along the Véloroute V81, also known as the Vélosud, from Biarritz to Le Barcarès.
Has anyone here already done this route? Any info is welcome, whether it’s about the route itself, gear, or accommodation. I’ll prioritize staying with locals as much as possible. On that note, I just signed up for the brand-new site *Guidon et Couette* ((www.guidon-et-couette.fr)), which offers free accommodation between cyclists across the country, but there’s almost no one listed along my route!
Thanks in advance.
Laurent.
Hi everyone,
I’m trying to figure out how to get from Paris to Marseille or Montpellier with non-disassembled bikes by train in early July 2025... and it’s a total flop!!! Can’t find any trains that offer the bike-on-board option! It’s so complicated between SNCF-CONNECT, OUIGO, and TER INTERCITÉS!!! Nothing’s simple! I want to take my teens and their cousins on a bike trip to the Camargue, but I’ll have to start planning way ahead to sort out bike transport!!! So glad I found VoyageForum for tips! !
I’m trying to figure out how to get from Paris to Marseille or Montpellier with non-disassembled bikes by train in early July 2025... and it’s a total flop!!! Can’t find any trains that offer the bike-on-board option! It’s so complicated between SNCF-CONNECT, OUIGO, and TER INTERCITÉS!!! Nothing’s simple! I want to take my teens and their cousins on a bike trip to the Camargue, but I’ll have to start planning way ahead to sort out bike transport!!! So glad I found VoyageForum for tips! !
Hi everyone,
After a break of a few years, I’m heading back to Madagascar this October. I’d like to travel from Diego to Maroantsetra via Cap Masoala as much as possible by bike—it’s my favorite way to travel. My questions: for the return trip to Diego once I’m in Maroantsetra, is there a possibility to take a flight, since the road option only starts much further south than Tamatave? Or where can I rent or buy a decent bike between Diego and Cap Masoala? For this bike trip, I’m open to any info—I love traveling rough. Someone might even want to join me on this adventure.
After that, I’d also like info on the northeast part (Mozambique Channel side) of Diego, which I’d like to explore by bike as well.
Thanks, and feel free to share any tips—just skip the paternalistic safety advice. Laurent
After that, I’d also like info on the northeast part (Mozambique Channel side) of Diego, which I’d like to explore by bike as well.
Thanks, and feel free to share any tips—just skip the paternalistic safety advice. Laurent
Hi there,
I’m planning the route to cycle from Lille to Nordkapp with my partner.
Duration: 3 months, from May 1st to July 31st, 2026.
In the attached details below, I need to add some "non-riding" days (rest days, basically).
So I’m looking to "shorten" the trip by taking ferries or trains for some stretches. Which areas could I skip?
Thanks in advance for your great tips.
Have a good evening.
https://www.komoot.com/fr-fr/collection/4023980/-lille-cap-nord-1er-mai-au-31-juillet-2026?ref=collection
Hi there,
I’m planning to build a new touring bike. I want to prioritize lightness. That said, I’m tempted by a suspension fork that could offer some comfort on rougher roads. The recent appearance of gravel suspension forks on the market might meet my needs—at least on paper. I’m particularly considering the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR fork. Unlike MTB forks, its travel is short: either 30 mm or 40 mm. It weighs 1400 g, which is 400/500 g more than a steel fork.
Any thoughts or real-world feedback on this?
I’m also wondering about the durability of magnesium (lower leg) for long-distance bike touring. And what’s the impact of skipping the manufacturer-recommended maintenance every 50 and 200 hours? That’s bound to happen on a long trip unless you carry extra gear. More generally, how reliable are these kinds of forks?
Thanks in advance
I’m planning to build a new touring bike. I want to prioritize lightness. That said, I’m tempted by a suspension fork that could offer some comfort on rougher roads. The recent appearance of gravel suspension forks on the market might meet my needs—at least on paper. I’m particularly considering the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR fork. Unlike MTB forks, its travel is short: either 30 mm or 40 mm. It weighs 1400 g, which is 400/500 g more than a steel fork.
Any thoughts or real-world feedback on this?
I’m also wondering about the durability of magnesium (lower leg) for long-distance bike touring. And what’s the impact of skipping the manufacturer-recommended maintenance every 50 and 200 hours? That’s bound to happen on a long trip unless you carry extra gear. More generally, how reliable are these kinds of forks?
Thanks in advance
Hi there! Every year, we go on a cycling trip abroad with panniers, lasting about two weeks. We stay in step lodgings, guesthouses, and the like. We mostly take small roads and really enjoyed northern Montenegro and Albania last year.
We’d love to hear from anyone who’s cycled in these countries before: tips on finding quiet roads, highlights of the regions we’ll pass through, how welcoming the locals are, and so on. Thanks in advance for any replies or exchanges!
We’d love to hear from anyone who’s cycled in these countries before: tips on finding quiet roads, highlights of the regions we’ll pass through, how welcoming the locals are, and so on. Thanks in advance for any replies or exchanges!
Hi there,
The full route from Burgos to (just before) Murcia is 1,300 km.
If you’ve done the whole thing, do you think the entire route is worth the trip, or can some sections be skipped?
Thanks.
The full route from Burgos to (just before) Murcia is 1,300 km.
If you’ve done the whole thing, do you think the entire route is worth the trip, or can some sections be skipped?
Thanks.
Hello fellow cycling friends,
I’m heading out very soon for a few weeks in France and elsewhere on my trusty two-wheeled steel steed, with a total of me + luggage = around 120 kg gross weight, and I’ve never really tackled mountain passes before—something I’ll definitely be facing this time...
Currently, I’m running 700c wheels and a Deore XT 10-speed drivetrain (long-cage derailleur) with a 26/36/48 chainring setup and an 11-36 cassette. I’m considering two options (and possible modifications) to get a lower gear ratio (currently 0.72) and spin more easily on steep and mountainous climbs...
1 – Install an 11-42 cassette This would give me a gear ratio of 0.61. Would this be feasible with my current rear derailleur, please?
I have several new chains with 116 links—would these work for this cassette, which would have 6 more teeth on the largest cog, or would I need a longer chain?
2 – Swap the 26-tooth small chainring for a 24-tooth one This would give me a gear ratio of 0.66. Would this be feasible, please?
When switching to a 24T, will the gap be accepted by the 36-tooth middle chainring, and will shifting remain as smooth as it is now? Will this setup (24/36/48 + 11-36 cassette) still work well together, in your opinion?
Which of these two options do you think would be more feasible and preferable?
What drivetrain and gearing do you use on your bikes for loaded touring that sometimes involves climbing mountain passes and other steep ascents?
So many questions... Thanks for your answers and advice! Have a great day,
Spady
I’m heading out very soon for a few weeks in France and elsewhere on my trusty two-wheeled steel steed, with a total of me + luggage = around 120 kg gross weight, and I’ve never really tackled mountain passes before—something I’ll definitely be facing this time...
Currently, I’m running 700c wheels and a Deore XT 10-speed drivetrain (long-cage derailleur) with a 26/36/48 chainring setup and an 11-36 cassette. I’m considering two options (and possible modifications) to get a lower gear ratio (currently 0.72) and spin more easily on steep and mountainous climbs...
1 – Install an 11-42 cassette This would give me a gear ratio of 0.61. Would this be feasible with my current rear derailleur, please?
I have several new chains with 116 links—would these work for this cassette, which would have 6 more teeth on the largest cog, or would I need a longer chain?
2 – Swap the 26-tooth small chainring for a 24-tooth one This would give me a gear ratio of 0.66. Would this be feasible, please?
When switching to a 24T, will the gap be accepted by the 36-tooth middle chainring, and will shifting remain as smooth as it is now? Will this setup (24/36/48 + 11-36 cassette) still work well together, in your opinion?
Which of these two options do you think would be more feasible and preferable?
What drivetrain and gearing do you use on your bikes for loaded touring that sometimes involves climbing mountain passes and other steep ascents?
So many questions... Thanks for your answers and advice! Have a great day,
Spady
Hi everyone,
I’m planning to bike around the Mediterranean. I’m supposed to go through North Africa, but it seems a bit complicated. Visas and travel in Algeria and Egypt only work if you book a hotel (no nights spent outside?). Libya is generally very unclear, and it seems you can only travel there with a local guide (which doesn’t exist for bike trips). If necessary, I’d skip Libya, but neither a bus ride nor a boat detour seems possible to enter Egypt.
Does anyone have tips on how to get around these issues and secure a visa?
Thanks for any advice!
I’m planning to bike around the Mediterranean. I’m supposed to go through North Africa, but it seems a bit complicated. Visas and travel in Algeria and Egypt only work if you book a hotel (no nights spent outside?). Libya is generally very unclear, and it seems you can only travel there with a local guide (which doesn’t exist for bike trips). If necessary, I’d skip Libya, but neither a bus ride nor a boat detour seems possible to enter Egypt.
Does anyone have tips on how to get around these issues and secure a visa?
Thanks for any advice!
Hi everyone, I’m new to the forum!
I’d like to buy some panniers for bike travel made of Cordura. I initially went for the Ortlieb Back Roller Plus, but while browsing the cylo-randonnée website, I came across the Extrawheel Wayfarer Premium panniers. They’re also made of Cordura, manufactured in Poland with German materials, and each has a 25-liter capacity—10 liters more than the Ortliebs.
Has anyone here tried them or knows this brand? I know Ortlieb is super reputable, but I figured there might be other brands that are just as good.
🙂 Gabriele
I have 5 months left to prepare for the most ambitious project of my life...
In 5 months, I’ll hit the road, heading to Nepal. Not by plane. Not by train. But by bike.
13,000 km, 18 countries crossed. Powered only by my legs, my will, and a dream.
This journey isn’t just a physical challenge. It’s:
🌍 A human and cultural adventure, meeting locals, landscapes, and traditions. 🌱 A meaningful project: discussing climate change and, above all, listening to those who experience it daily. 🔥 An inner quest, to push my limits and inspire others to step out of their comfort zones. A message of hope for self-discovery.
I have 20 weeks left to: ✅ Finalize my route ✅ Gather the budget and equipment ✅ Sort out the logistics ✅ And most importantly… find committed sponsors to bring this adventure to life.
Any help is welcome!
In 5 months, I’ll hit the road, heading to Nepal. Not by plane. Not by train. But by bike.
13,000 km, 18 countries crossed. Powered only by my legs, my will, and a dream.
This journey isn’t just a physical challenge. It’s:
🌍 A human and cultural adventure, meeting locals, landscapes, and traditions. 🌱 A meaningful project: discussing climate change and, above all, listening to those who experience it daily. 🔥 An inner quest, to push my limits and inspire others to step out of their comfort zones. A message of hope for self-discovery.
I have 20 weeks left to: ✅ Finalize my route ✅ Gather the budget and equipment ✅ Sort out the logistics ✅ And most importantly… find committed sponsors to bring this adventure to life.
Any help is welcome!
Hello,
I’m planning to cycle from Paris to Prague in three weeks. It’s the worst time of year temperature-wise, especially since I’m pretty sensitive to the cold. But I don’t have a choice about either the timing or the destination (it’s a break between two jobs that just happens to fall during this period, and I’m heading to Prague to meet friends for a specific event in mid-February).
So it’s going to be *very* cold. And while I’ve done a few relaxed one- to two-week bike trips before, I’ve never cycled in winter. That’s why I’d love your advice on two things! :)
1- Accommodation along the route On my previous trips, the weather was more forgiving, so I always brought my tent and didn’t have to worry about accommodation logistics. But this time, it’s a whole different story—I won’t be able to sleep outside (too cold + it gets dark too early). So I need to plan all my lodging in advance.
I’ve looked at a few existing threads about cycling from Paris to Prague, but they all focus on campsites/tents since the timing allowed for outdoor sleeping. Does anyone know: 1- If those campsites, which seem to be fairly evenly spaced along the route, have winter facilities (I assume most close in winter, but you never know)? This is especially important for the German and Czech sections (I’ll be fine in France). 2- How easy it is to find affordable youth hostels everywhere, and if so, whether I should book them in advance?
2- Winter cycling gear Since I’ve never cycled in winter before, I don’t have the right gear. I’m particularly concerned about gloves and shoes, since my extremities will take a beating. What shoes would you recommend for temperatures around 0°C? I don’t plan to cycle in winter again after this, and all my other trips have been in regular running shoes, which worked just fine for me. So I’d prefer not to spend a fortune on super technical gear that I’ll only use once. But I also don’t want to skimp on cold protection—being freezing could ruin the whole trip. So if the only solution is "super technical" shoes, I’ll go for it.
> What shoes do you wear or recommend for simple bike trips that keep your feet warm and dry? > Does the overshoe option (over a pair of regular sneakers, for example) seem like a good solution? (I just discovered overshoes—I have no idea how effective they are.) If so, are Decathlon’s overshoes good enough, or should I go to a specialty bike shop?
Thanks so much!
(Oops, sorry for the novel...)
I’m planning to cycle from Paris to Prague in three weeks. It’s the worst time of year temperature-wise, especially since I’m pretty sensitive to the cold. But I don’t have a choice about either the timing or the destination (it’s a break between two jobs that just happens to fall during this period, and I’m heading to Prague to meet friends for a specific event in mid-February).
So it’s going to be *very* cold. And while I’ve done a few relaxed one- to two-week bike trips before, I’ve never cycled in winter. That’s why I’d love your advice on two things! :)
1- Accommodation along the route On my previous trips, the weather was more forgiving, so I always brought my tent and didn’t have to worry about accommodation logistics. But this time, it’s a whole different story—I won’t be able to sleep outside (too cold + it gets dark too early). So I need to plan all my lodging in advance.
I’ve looked at a few existing threads about cycling from Paris to Prague, but they all focus on campsites/tents since the timing allowed for outdoor sleeping. Does anyone know: 1- If those campsites, which seem to be fairly evenly spaced along the route, have winter facilities (I assume most close in winter, but you never know)? This is especially important for the German and Czech sections (I’ll be fine in France). 2- How easy it is to find affordable youth hostels everywhere, and if so, whether I should book them in advance?
2- Winter cycling gear Since I’ve never cycled in winter before, I don’t have the right gear. I’m particularly concerned about gloves and shoes, since my extremities will take a beating. What shoes would you recommend for temperatures around 0°C? I don’t plan to cycle in winter again after this, and all my other trips have been in regular running shoes, which worked just fine for me. So I’d prefer not to spend a fortune on super technical gear that I’ll only use once. But I also don’t want to skimp on cold protection—being freezing could ruin the whole trip. So if the only solution is "super technical" shoes, I’ll go for it.
> What shoes do you wear or recommend for simple bike trips that keep your feet warm and dry? > Does the overshoe option (over a pair of regular sneakers, for example) seem like a good solution? (I just discovered overshoes—I have no idea how effective they are.) If so, are Decathlon’s overshoes good enough, or should I go to a specialty bike shop?
Thanks so much!
(Oops, sorry for the novel...)
Hi there!
I’m making an exception and creating a separate post this time, since it’s all about France. In May, we spent a week in Provence, specifically in the Luberon, exploring the cycling routes *Autour du Luberon à Vélo*, the *Véloroute du Calavon* (part of EuroVelo 8), and the shorter *Les Ocres à Vélo* route. Together, they gave us an amazing journey through rolling hills, vineyards, lavender fields still green in spring, and some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France.
It was, of course, the perched villages that impressed us the most. We visited Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Cucuron, and Lauris. Many of them are among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and it’s hard not to agree with that reputation.
One interesting point is the route of EuroVelo 8 in this part of the region. The official path mainly follows the old railway line of the *Véloroute du Calavon*, which is very comfortable and safe. But in our opinion, cyclists traveling EuroVelo 8 around the Mediterranean would discover even more treasures if the route passed through villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, or Oppède-le-Vieux.
We were also pleasantly surprised by how safe cycling felt. Most of the route takes small local roads, but traffic is light, drivers are respectful, and road design really takes cyclists into account. It’s one of those places where you can ride peacefully even without separated bike lanes.
Our full story:
Around Luberon by bicycle - the most beautiful villages of Provence
You can also find all our cycling travel stories on the forum:
Cycling Thread - Europe’s most beautiful bike routes
S.
I’m making an exception and creating a separate post this time, since it’s all about France. In May, we spent a week in Provence, specifically in the Luberon, exploring the cycling routes *Autour du Luberon à Vélo*, the *Véloroute du Calavon* (part of EuroVelo 8), and the shorter *Les Ocres à Vélo* route. Together, they gave us an amazing journey through rolling hills, vineyards, lavender fields still green in spring, and some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France.
It was, of course, the perched villages that impressed us the most. We visited Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Cucuron, and Lauris. Many of them are among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and it’s hard not to agree with that reputation.
One interesting point is the route of EuroVelo 8 in this part of the region. The official path mainly follows the old railway line of the *Véloroute du Calavon*, which is very comfortable and safe. But in our opinion, cyclists traveling EuroVelo 8 around the Mediterranean would discover even more treasures if the route passed through villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, or Oppède-le-Vieux.
We were also pleasantly surprised by how safe cycling felt. Most of the route takes small local roads, but traffic is light, drivers are respectful, and road design really takes cyclists into account. It’s one of those places where you can ride peacefully even without separated bike lanes.
Our full story:
Around Luberon by bicycle - the most beautiful villages of Provence
You can also find all our cycling travel stories on the forum:
Cycling Thread - Europe’s most beautiful bike routes
S.
Hi, I'm looking for a Pino tandem bike for sale in Quebec and I can't find any. Does anyone have any info, please? Thanks a bunch!
