Choose the bike that suits you
“What type of bike can I ride La Vélodyssée on?” is a question that comes up regularly. Here are our tips, whether you are travelling for several days or for the day.
The type of bike you need depends on several factors
First question: the duration of the trip and the distance covered per day.
Your load
Depending on your load, you will need a bike compatible with your luggage and panniers.
Tip: If you have a lot of weight to carry, suspension forks should be avoided.
Comfort
Think comfort! Choose the position and handlebars that suit you best (flat, butterfly or drop handlebars).
The type of surface
Overall, La Vélodyssée is smooth to ride. However, in some places in Brittany, Loire-Atlantique and Charente-Maritime, the surface of certain paths can be uneven and stony, and it can sometimes be less smooth than asphalt.
Tip: You will find information on the type of surface on each stage, in the “Route” section, under the elevation gain.
Our recommendation
For a touring trip on La Vélodyssée, we recommend a trekking (VTC), touring or gravel bike with tyres at least 28 mm wide.
Tip: Consider puncture-resistant tyres (Schwalbe Marathon Plus, for example).
For more specific and detailed advice on types of bike, see the tips:
- from Mila and Denni, seasoned bike travellers
- from France Vélo Tourisme and its page dedicated to choosing a bike
Before you leave, a service is essential!
Whether you are going for a day or for several days, it is important for your safety not to neglect the condition of your bike.
For a day ride
Remember to check at least: the brakes, lights, gears, and the condition and pressure of the tyres.
For several days
If you are going for several days and don't know much about bikes, a full service by a specialist is essential. It will also be a chance to check the transmission, the wheels, the tightness of the bike's components, etc.
Remember
- Adjust your bike to your size (saddle and handlebars).
- Invest in a comfortable saddle and possibly padded shorts.
- Take a small repair kit.
- Do not forget a lock for your refreshment stops, visits, etc.
Tips and tricks for taking care of your bicycle
Here are a few tips for cleaning your bike. It is important to do this regularly to keep the parts in good working order.
The tools you need
The tools you need are pretty basic: water, some sponges, an old toothbrush, a clean cloth, cleaning and degreasing products, and bike lube.
1Stabilise your bike
Using a bike repair stand is the most practical, but if you don't have one, just go with the old-school solution and turn your bike upside down. Remember to protect the saddle and handlebars with cardboard or an old blanket on the ground. To make it easier to do a deep-clean, you can also remove the wheels.
2Wash
If your bike is really dirty, start by rinsing it to remove most of the dirt (but don't use a pressure washer). Then, use bike cleanser with a sponge and water to clean the frame, forks, handlebars, pedals and transmission. The toothbrush will help you get dirt out of the smallest crevices.
3Degrease
If your chain is dirty or makes noise, you'll need to degrease the chain, derailleurs and cassette. You can degrease them by mixing hot water with washing up liquid and a few drops of white vinegar. If this doesn't do the trick, you'll need to get a specialised cleaning product.
4Rinse and dry
Remember to dry your bike. This is an essential step to avoid damaging the parts. Be sure to use a clean, dry cloth.
5Lubricate
Once your bike is properly clean, the last step is to lubricate the chain with the appropriate oil. Pour a few drops of bike lube on the chain and turn it in one direction and then the other so that the oil coats all of the links. If you want to do a bit more, you can also lubricate the cables, housings and shifters.
For more in-depth info, check out the website Global Cycling Network.
