In many ways bicycle touring is much the same as regular bicycling. It involves pretty well the same basic motions and skills. However, the added weight of the gear and extended cycling times can cause some significant differences. Please keep the following facts in mind whenever you tour.

WEIGHT DIFFERENCES

- Loaded bicycles weigh more than unloaded bicycles and they tend to be less aerodynamic. These reasons make them harder to pedal. Also, your pace might be a bit slower.

- Heavier bicycles take longer to stop. You will possibly have to start braking earlier than normal. This is especially true on downhills and in rainy conditions.

- Heavier bicycles are harder to get up hills. You will have to shift earlier and into a lower gear. This will help you keep your momentum and pedal speed going.

CONTROL DIFFERENCES

- Loaded bicycles tend to have centers of gravity that are higher than unloaded ones. This can make them less stable in turns.

- Loaded bicycles can be less responsive. This is especially true when gear is stored over the front wheel.

- Loaded bicycles tend to create more wind-resistance. They are more susceptible to sudden gusts and side winds.

- Loaded bicycles are more susceptible to damage from bumps and jolts. To protect your wheels from any impact damage, you should lift yourself up off the saddle slightly when you hit bumps or potholes. The act of lifting off the saddle will allow you to absorb some of the downward force.

SOME BASIC TOURING HINTS

*Starting out.

- When you start out from a full stop, it is best to start out in a low gear (it is best to remember to down-shift each time you come to a stop). Starting out in too high of a gear will lead to a waste of energy and may lead to strained muscles. Shift up to higher gears smoothly and quickly as you gain momentum.

*Maintain a constant speed.

- It takes less energy to maintain a bicycle traveling at a constant speed over a great distance than it does to vary your speed over the same distance. Find and stick to a pace that you can maintain comfortably. Some changes of speed are unavoidable due to the fact that there can be changes in terrain and other riding conditions. Try to avoid speeding up and then slowing down.

*Maintain a steady cadence.

- Pedaling with a quick rhythm or "cadence" is usually easier on the legs and lungs than pushing harder on the pedals at a higher gear. In the long run, this high cadence will make cycling easier (especially on your knees).

The basic key to do this is to practice. Keep in mind that it is possible to have to high of a cadence. If you find yourself bouncing up and down on your saddle while pedaling, shift up one gear and continue.

*Stay well hydrated.

- It is much easier to stay hydrated than it is to re-hydrate. Drink prior to the start of the day's ride and frequently throughout it. Thirst is a poor indicator of dehydration, so you better not wait for it.

*Stay well nourished.

- Bicycle touring can burn up calories quickly. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals, and snack often to keep your fuel reserves up. The best snacks are high-energy, low-bulk, and high in carbohydrates. Some examples are energy bars, dried fruit, or chocolate.

*Keep yourself rested.

- Stick to a moderate pace and have frequent rest breaks. If you are a novice tourer, stop every couple of hours for a few minutes to stretch out and take a breather. Keep your rest breaks short to around five minutes so that there isn't any chance for lactic acid to build up in your legs. This can make starting up more difficult. Also, rest after major meals to let the food be digested properly.

*Protect yourself from exposure.

- Keep up with temperature changes both inside and outside. Alter your clothing layers when needed to stay comfortable throughout the day's ride. Protect exposed areas like your eyes, head, and hands. Wear sunscreen and some form of eye protection.