[quote=“franko76”]Has anyone done it? I want to make the trip around the island and am starting my research but am wondering if anyone that’s done it before has any advice, tips, etc. I’ve never biked this distance before (hell, the most I’ve ridden is probably around 10k) so it will be a challenge. But I’m in good shape physically and exercise regularly so it’s not like I’m a complete n00b fitness-wise.
I have gotten remarks from people saying that my crotch will be sore and numb. However they’re all non-riders. I’m guessing this will be true but is this something that can be lessened with super-padded shorts and alternating between standing and sitting while riding? Am I getting in over my head with this trip? Should I maybe start with a shorter distance first (like maybe a few cities) and slowly make my way up to the island loop? I’ve heard 80 year old grandmas have done it so I dunno. I’d like to do this alone (or with a few people) but perhaps I should go with a tour for my first time.
Anyways, would like to hear about some of your experiences and if you have any tips. Thanks so much!
Frank[/quote]
There’s information in the threads about people riding the east coast here, but not many people have actually done an island trip in the past half a year or so, so some of the information on the older threads may be outdated. However, if you do some rummaging through the threads, you can piece together some helpful stuff for your trip.
Along the lines of route and accommodations, I can’t really give you any suggestions since I’ve never done the trip myself, but if you do some digging here, and research blogs, you won’t have trouble finding info. Just takes time. If you’re too lazy, sign up with Giant or Merida on their group trips and all you gotta do is show up with your ID, money, and some clothes and everything else will be provided to you.
As for being in shape and exercising regularly, you’ll still need to do some prep for the trip. I had a friend visit me over Chinese New Year from the states who was in great shape. He runs, goes to the gym on a regular basis, and also rides once or twice a month. So I figured, he’s in shape, he won’t have a tough time keeping up on flats and on climbs. Unfortunately, he had trouble keeping up and was even surprised himself on how out of shape on a bike he was. Nonetheless, he enjoyed every aspect of the ride(s) we took him on and had zero complaints.
All in all, do some prep. Your ass will hurt and you’ll want to quit after the first 25-30km if you do not train your body to get used to the saddle. I’ve been riding for a little over half a year now and had planned 4 months back with a few buddies that we would do a 2-3 day east coast trip this spring since we’d be fit for it.
The grandmas and grandpas that make the trip probably do it in a lot of days with short distances and/or have a support vehicle. I’m not assuming that you aren’t beast and can’t just hop on and go, but usually, you want to do some training for this kind of thing.
Good luck! If you have any other questions about training for long rides feel free to PM me.
) in December. I’m convinced you can finish it. I would just advise you to add an event earlier this year as a preparation.