Supplemental
Transport
Bike treks generally consist of daily biking between villages,
towns, and other destinations. Supplemental transport, when required, may include all means of
available transportation, public and private, including bus, truck, boat, train
or foot. Many of our bike treks venture to remote destinations, often some
distance away from modern amenities and infrastructure. Due to a range of factors -
the remoteness of many destinations, our operating principle of
adventure travel that is culturally and ecologically sensitive, and the
general nature of adventure trekking, bicycle treks are not fully
vehicle supported.
Equipment and Packing
Equipment needs for bike and/or multisport treks will vary based on itinerary.
However, for biking treks, trekkers should pack light.
As with all
adventure travel, do not bring anything you feel you cannot live
without. If the trek itinerary
requires other activity-specific equipment, adventurECO will work with
trekkers to ensure all equipment needs are covered. Click on the Trek Preparation
link for basic equipment to pack for any trek. Final packing
instructions will be sent at least one month prior to the
departure date. General biking equipment needs include:
* Bicycle
and Helmet
To ensure comfort, proper fit, and familiarity, trekkers are responsible
for bringing his or her own bicycle and helmet. The
transportation infrastructure, remoteness of destinations, and terrain,
necessitates a durable, low-maintenance bicycle. As such, a decent quality,
well-maintained
mountain bike is the best option (road bikes and hybrids
generally are not suitable for adventure biking treks). Super expensive, high-end,
high maintenance
mountain bikes are not recommended.
* Pedals and
Shoes
While many cyclists prefer a clipless pedal/shoe system, they
generally are not ideal for other activities (hiking, nightlife, etc.)
Pedals with old school toes clips (a.k.a. standard cage) and a pair of mid-weight
cross-trainers or hiking boots are recommended, as they can be worn
for multisport activities, in addition to biking, A
pair of sport sandals should also be packed for stream crossings, use
in restrooms and showers, relaxing, etc.)
* Tool Kit and Spare
Parts
adventurECO trek leaders maintain a basic tool kit and a limited
number of spare parts. Trekkers should also pack a few spare parts as
they will likely not be available in country. Spare parts kit should
include a tube patch kit, two extra tubes, one extra tire (foldable),
patch kit, rear derailleur, one break cable, one gear cable and
necessary wrenches, and pump.
* Backpack
A medium sized backpack
(e.g., daypack, day and a half pack, overnight pack), that can be worn
while biking, strapped to a bicycle rack or stuffed into a pannier)
should be brought to carry basic supplies and provisions on bike treks.
It is not practical to carry large, cavernous backpacks on bike treks
(larger packs and other gear for multisport treks can be stored in a secure location and retrieved
upon completion of bike trek).
* Bicycle Rack
A sturdy, rear-mounted bicycle rack capable of carrying your backpack or
other gear is a useful addition to your mountain bike. A bike rack is
necessary if you intend to use panniers.
* Panniers
Panniers are a good option for carrying gear without a backpack. A bike rack is necessary if you intend to use panniers.
* Bicycle Travel Case
Required to transport bicycle on International flights. Universal cases
fit most mountain bikes.
*Clothing
Lightweight, quick-drying clothing that can be layered for
use in a wide range of outdoor activities is recommended.
Bicycle and Travel Gear
Bike Nashbar - www.nashbar.com
Campmor.com - www.campmor.com
Performance Bicycle - www.performance.com