Build the USBRS with Exodus Travels

May 26, 2016

For the past two years, Exodus Travels has been thrilled to be a proud supporter of the U.S. Bicycle Route System. In addition to their generous match sponsorship this year, Exodus Travels offers members and friends of Adventure Cycling $150 off any of their extraordinary cycling adventures for 2016–2017. Just book before September 15, 2016 and mention USA1world2wheels!

Donate now to have your contribution matched by Exodus Travels!

Meet Exodus Travels

Nothing compares to the freedom of two wheels. For 40 years, Exodus Travels has been crafting and developing the widest range of cycling holidays and adventures to 100+ countries across the globe, known for the perfect balance of adrenaline thrills, historic highlights, cultural encounters, and the great outdoors. Enjoy everything from relaxing cycling holidays in France to cycling the highest roads over the Himalayas,

Exodus Travels offers over 150 cycling trips worldwide with a variety of durations, destinations, and difficulty levels. Drop-bar road cycling, mountain biking, even e-bikes — Exodus Travels has something for every style of adventurer.

And to get you rolling, Exodus Travels offers 10 things you need to know before your first bike tour ...

Ten Things To Know Before Your First Cycling Adventure From Exodus Travels.

If you’re craving the freedom of the open road, give into your wanderlust. Nothing compares to an active adventure by two wheels. However, if you’ve never done it before, a cycling vacation can seem a bit daunting. Don’t stress. Exodus Travels has compiled a list of all the things you need to know before saddling up for your first exotic cycling trip.

Exodus Tip #1: A little training goes a long way

Nearly everyone asks, “How in shape do I need to be?” The answer differs depending on the tour and destination, but what never changes is this: nothing beats a little practice beforehand. For many travelers, the free fitness guides found on Exodus’ website offer tips from the pros on training for your upcoming adventure.

Exodus Tip #2: What if you don’t feel like riding one day?

Many travelers on a cycling tour for the first time ask about a contingency plan if they need a break from riding. The answer is the Exodus support vehicle, following your group and always there to offer you a ride.

Exodus Tip #3: Enjoy plenty of time for breaks and rolling off the beaten path.

Although Exodus leaders like everyone to regroup every 15 kilometers, how you spend the time in between is up to you. You may want to stop to cool off with a quick dip in the ocean, enjoy food cooked before your eyes at a roadside stand, check out a stunning 16th century cathedral, photograph Africa’s extraordinary wildlife, or simply lose yourself in the view!

Exodus Tip #4: Leave your panniers at home.

Cycling with a loaded bike can take the fun out of riding, particularly in the tropics where the breeze circulating through your jersey is a must! A small saddlebag or backpack will do the trick for essentials: sunscreen, camera, phone, etc. Everything else is carried in the van where you can access it at stop points.

Exodus Tip #5: The chances of getting lost are slim to none.

Some first-time cyclists worry about getting lost. Don’t worry! Exodus leaders work with their team to ensure a tour leader is always at the front of the group and another in the back!

Exodus Tip #6: You won’t go hungry!

A cycling tour is the perfect way to shed a few unwanted pounds, but mouth-watering local cuisine is always readily available for those who like to eat and drink their way through a country. In addition to fantastic cafes, restaurants, cooking classes, and markets, foodies will love Exodus’ optional snacking kitty. Sign up to receive delicious local snacks at each stop point. Imagine warm pastries, fresh pineapple, or electrolyte rich coconut juice straight from the tree!

Exodus Tip #7: You definitely don’t need to bring your own bike

All that boxing, packing, and assembling is a headache. Exodus makes sure the bikes provided to you are the perfect fit. By providing your preferences and height, all you need to do is push the pedals.

Exodus Tip #8: Take your own saddle and other bike parts

If you prefer your own saddle, and cyclists often do, bring it with you, along with anything else you prefer, like handlebar extensions or pedals. Exodus’ experts will fit them to your bike and you’re ready to go!

Exodus Tip #9: A cycling jersey and padded shorts are a necessity

Cycling shorts can take a bit of getting used to, but they are 100% crucial, even on leisurely rides, and make a world of difference when spending multiple days riding. Plus, a cycling jersey keeps the sun off your neck and the back pockets come in handy.

Exodus Tip #10: Cycling might be your new favorite way to see a country!

Getting a waft of herbs being prepared for lunch in a village, hearing chanting from the nearby monastery, or waving at groups of children on their way to school — for many globetrotters, there is no better way than cycling to be immersed in the culture and country you’ve chosen to visit.

For more cycling inspiration courtesy of Exodus Travels, check out their YouTube page! 

Photos courtesy of Exodus Travels.

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Join us in building the largest cycling route network in the world!

 

The U.S. Bicycle Route System (USBRS) is a developing national network of signed and numbered bicycle routes that link together cities, suburbs, rural communities, and public lands so that anyone, no matter who or where they are, can get to their destination by bicycle. To date, over 11,000 miles of U.S. Bicycle Routes have been officially designated in 25 states, and nearly 4,000 miles have been signed. When complete, the USBRS will encompass more than 50,000 miles and open new opportunities for cross-country travel, regional bicycle touring, and commuting by bike.

 

Thank you to Tripsite.com, Visit Bentonville/Bike Bentonville, Destination Irvine, BikeTours.com, Osprey Packs, Exodus Travels, Stan's No Tubes, and all of the generous supporters of the U.S. Bicycle Route System campaign!