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For those mad enough to attempt the journey.....
Buy the bookThe comments below are based solely on our own experiences. Others may have different views, and I would be happy to hear from anyone with similar or contradictory experiences.
Here are our comments:Bed and Breakfasts
1. Pubs
Pubs are a life saver for lunches, evening meals and liquid refreshments. Unfortunately they are not always the best place to spend the night if you want to get away early in the morning.
The main problem with pubs is they are open late in the evening. If you have cycled 60 miles in a day you are likely to be tired, and therefore ready for bed fairly early. You may also want an early start the next morning, and many pubs are not willing to accommodate this.
2. Take Note of their Names
Most street and place names tell you a lot about where the B&B is. For example Bove Town, actually means 'above the town'. Therefore a climb at the end of the day, which you may or may not appreciate.
3. Use a Reliable Guide or Recommendations
The yellow pages is not a good idea if you can avoid it. Try the AA guide or the CTC. (See Favourite Links.)
4. Evening Meals.
You are on your bike. You will not want to travel 5 miles to get an evening meal. Check when you book up if there is somewhere nearby, or whether the B&B could prepare you a meal.
5. Space for Bikes.
Check you can store your bikes safely and securely. Preferably in a covered area. They will not perform well the next day if they've spent the night in the pouring rain. Believe me, if they are uncovered, it will rain.
Your Route
1. CTC
CTC provide some routes in the country and are sure to have a West to East. A link to their website can be found on the Links page.
2. Do it Yourself
One of the best parts of cycling any route is planning the journey in the first place. Take the opportunity to visit places onroute, and go where you want to go. You often get a better reception from people off the normal route than those who are use to seeing cyclists'.
3. National Cycle Network
The NCN does not make good routes for long distance touring. Off-road sections are often covered in gravel or grass, and other parts require you to carry your bike down stairs.
The route markers often leave you when you most need them, and those that do exist are on the junction, rather than before it, and therefore require you to come to a standstill before you can continue.
4. Minor Roads
Minor roads are not always safer, and will normally be a lot hillier than main roads. This is particularly true in Devon and Cornwall. It will take you longer to cycle on minor roads. You have to check the map more often since it is very easy to get lost. The contours can be horrendous, when your only reward for a long hard climb, is a quick, sharp drop requiring constant braking.
While you will see fewer cars on the minor roads, those you do see will likely be travelling too fast for the road, and as the road is narrow you will probably have to take evasive action to avoid them. Also be wary of tractors.
5. Take Your Time
If you are booking accommodation in advance you will get a feeling of 'must get there' each day. You can dampen this a little by cycling a good proportion before lunch, and then relax in the afternoon. However, you are still likely to want to stay on track, rather than wander to see the sights. If you have the time, you will get more from the journey if you reduce your daily mileage, but fit in little excursions as you go along.
6. Daily Mileage
You are likely to cycle more miles than you planned in any day, rather than less. This is because the mileage you calculate will be based on making no mistakes. You will make mistakes if you use the National Cycle Network or minor roads. It is inevitable. Therefore, try to accept this before you go.
Your Bicycle
1. Before you Go
Try to ensure your cycle is in good working order before you leave. A chain should be replaced every 1,000 miles, so change yours before you go. You will need good brakes, so check the pads, and replace the cables. Get a granny ring to help get up hills.
2. Cycling
Take your time. Use your gears. Pace yourself. Bear in mind, particularly in Wales, the hill you are cycling up is just one of hundreds you will face. Therefore don't use all your energy now.
Keep your fluid levels up. Try to take a mouthful of water/drink every 10 minutes. It is also useful to drink a pint of water after you wake up in the morning, to replace fluids lost in the night.
3. Each Morning
Take some spray lube with you. GT85 is excellent. This will get rid of muck as well as lubricating. Spray your chain, block, pedal bearings, wheel bearings, brake pivots each morning.
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