| Re: What To Do About Bolloxed Vacation?
Elisa Francesca Roselli wrote:
>
> The different vacation for the same dates takes the same route, but
> there is much more cycling - average 50 km a day rather than 25, and the
> barge is less comfortable (there would be a slight refund for this). I'm
> worried that I do not have the physical level suddenly to start doing 50
> km a day, when the most I've ever done in one stint is 28. I will not
> have time (or a place) to train on my current schedule. And I don't want
> to undertake an ordeal for what is supposed to be a fun, relaxing holiday.
I think you'll be OK. 50 K a day on flat roads is challenging,
but not deadly. In Holland the main problem is exposure to wind;
there's very little shelter. However, if you read up on
"slip streaming" or the "sitting in you'll do much
better ;-)
With regards to comfort, proper shorts are (IMHO) ESSENTIAL.
They make a remarkable difference to comfort.
I don't think the people on the 50 K-a-day tour will
be race-fit enthusiasts, out for a burn up.
Those people will be on a much more punishing
holiday than even this.
My recommendationss;
* ensure your bike is well set up; smooth tyres,
decent pump (to maintain tyre pressure, which makes
a collossal difference to ease of travel), saddle height etc.
Many people who are new to cycling have their saddle
too low for efficient peddaling.
* purchase "real" cycling shorts
* train (or practise ;-) as much much (but also as
gently and enjoyably) as you reasonably can.
* GO ON THE HOLIDAY
BugBear
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