Which touring bike to choose for your first bike trip?

Which Travel Bike to Choose for Your First Bike Trip?

If you are reading this article, you are probably thinking about how to organize your first bike trip. At DolceVia, we specialize in first-time bike experiences. That’s why we decided to share some best practices to avoid making mistakes when choosing your first bike trip.

We know how exciting but also a bit scary it can be to embark on your first bike trip, which is why it’s crucial to make the right choice of bike for a 100% successful experience. Choosing the ideal travel bike can be difficult, especially for beginners. But here’s a guide to help you see things more clearly.

1. Define Your Needs, So That This First Travel Bike Fits You Perfectly

Before choosing your first travel bike, it’s important to define your specific needs, particularly based on the distance and terrain you wish to cover.

• Type of terrain: Will you mainly ride on paved roads, dirt paths, or mountain trails?
• Duration of the trip: A short weekend or a long expedition lasting several weeks?
• Type of trip: Do you prefer bikepacking with lightweight gear or classic cycle touring with larger panniers?

To start, we recommend our selection of weekend bike trips from Paris.

2. Types of Travel Bikes

There are several types of bikes suitable for travel. Here are the main models you can consider:

⛱️ Touring Bike (VTC), the ideal first travel bike that is versatile

The touring bike is designed for long rides on the road with heavy panniers.

• Advantages: Stable, versatile, comfortable saddle position (back angle at 90°).
• Features: A steel or aluminum frame, perfect for beginners and ideal for a first bike trip.

🏞️ Trekking Bike, a first travel bike type for maximum comfort

Trekking bikes are versatile and can handle a variety of terrains, from paved roads to country paths.

• Advantages: Sturdy, comfortable, good loading capacity.
• Features: Aluminum or steel frame, equipped with front suspension and numerous attachment points (eyelets) for panniers and accessories. It is possible to load panniers on the rear rack as well as on the front forks, with or without an integrated front rack, depending on the trekking bike model.

🚵‍♀️ BikePacking Bike (gravel), the travel bike for (very) long sporty trips, probably not your first travel bike 😉

The bikepacking bike is ideal for those who prefer to travel light with minimal gear.

• Advantages: Lightweight, maneuverable, faster.
• Features: Steel, aluminum, or carbon frame. If you are looking for speed and versatility, this is the perfect bike. You can install your bikepacking bags directly around the frame without a rack.

The ideal setup combines the following equipment: a saddle bag, equipped with a stabilizer allowing you to secure two water bottles on either side of the bag; a frame bag, in half or full frame version depending on your choice to keep or not your two bottles on the frame; a top tube bag and a handlebar bag. You can also add fork bags, attached to the eyelets on the fork. However, be careful not to overload them if your fork is made of carbon.

🛣️ Electric Bike (E-Bike), the ideal first travel bike for those who want to discover bike travel with peace of mind

Electric bikes can be an excellent option for bike trips, offering pedal assistance for climbs and long distances.

• Advantages: Electric assistance to make climbs easier, greater range for long distances, allows for carrying more gear.
• Features: The bike is equipped with an integrated electric motor and a rechargeable battery, with the same frame options as traditional bikes. If you are traveling completely independently, make sure your stages allow for battery recharging.

3. Key Features to Look For

When choosing your first travel bike, consider these essential features:

• Comfort: A comfortable saddle and a riding position suitable for long hours of pedaling are crucial.
• Loading capacity: Ensure that the bike can carry all your gear in a stable and secure manner.
• Reliability: Opt for a bike with durable and easy-to-maintain components. For electric bikes, prefer Bosch motors, which are more well-known among repairers than other brands.
• Versatility: A bike capable of handling different types of terrain will increase your route options.
• Weight: The lighter your bike and gear, the easier it will be to pedal long distances.

4. Practical Tips

• Test multiple models: If possible, try different types of bikes to see which is the most comfortable and best suited to your needs.
• Consult experts: The DolceVia team can offer personalized advice and recommendations based on your itinerary and experience.
• Prepare your bike: Before you leave, ensure that your bike is well-maintained and equipped with the necessary accessories (lights, racks, fenders, etc.).

The DolceVia Service to Help You with Your First Bike Trip

At DolceVia, we make it easier for you to choose your first travel bike by offering:

• Starting with a bike rental: A wide range of touring, trekking, gravel, bikepacking, and electric bikes.
• Personalized advice: Our team of experts is here to help you choose the perfect bike for your trip.
• One-way service: Rent a bike in Paris and return it to any train station in France for maximum flexibility.

Alexis's Choice of Travel Bike, Production Manager for Bike Trips at DolceVia

"This summer 2024, I traveled the Vélodyssée from Nantes to Marmande, covering 750 km, choosing a gravel bike. This choice allowed me to travel light and fast, averaging 120 km per day and pedaling for 5 to 6 hours. Another reason for my choice was to be able to travel completely independently, carrying my sleeping gear, food, and everything necessary in my bikepacking bags, all while trying to stay as 'ultralight' as possible."

Conclusion

Choosing the right bike for your first trip is crucial to ensure a pleasant and successful experience. By considering your specific needs, your itinerary, and essential features, you can find the perfect bike for you. At DolceVia, we are here to support you at every step, from choosing the bike to planning your trip. Visit us at 58 rue de Cléry, Paris, to start your bike adventure today!

Now that you know which travel bike to choose, here’s an article that might interest you if you want to travel in winter: How to Properly Prepare Your Bike for Riding in Winter?

Happy biking with DolceVia!