If you are tackling a cross country bike ride or a journey over several months, it is extremely important to prepare yourself. There are many ways to prepare including checklists of things you need to bring and a good map to keep you on track.
However, there are several important things, mentally and physically, that you need to do before you leave. They include:
Mentally you need to understand that being in top condition is less than half the battle. You need to prepare your mind for the arduous battle ahead. Some say that to finish a very long bike ride takes 75% mental preparation, 25% physical. When your body starts to fade, it is your brain that has to keep going and stay aware.
One of the most taxing parts of a long bike ride is getting used to those long hours in the saddle. This is something you need to get used to before you leave, or you will never be able to make it. You need to be able to sit for about 18 hours in a day, so practice, practice, practice.
Right before you leave, about two weeks, you need to take a break from riding. Taper off so that your body can rest up, but don’t get out of shape too much or you will find yourself unprepared.
When packing, bring as little as possible, mapping out places you can do laundry and eat on the way.
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