I'm on the ferry tonight and will be doing about 80 miles on some national cycle routes over the weekend.
I've done some research and have found:
Helmet = optional
Lights and reflectors after dark (no flashers)
That's about it! Has anyone got any pearls of wisdom?
Ta muchly
P. S. I'm on a rigid 29er singlespeed with fat road tyres and a pannier...
Careful of the cakes in the "coffee shops"!! 😆
if there is a cyclepath adjacent to the road - you have to use it .
I went years ago but things I remember
1. Don't buy a road map assuming the cycle routes follow the roads.
2. Do expect to get lost in the Hague
3. Do empty your pockets of contraband before you get to the Belgian border if you are the type to suddenly remember what is in your pocket and start getting a little nervous
4. It's a great place for cycling
P. S. I'm on a rigid 29er singlespeed with fat road tyres and a pannier...
One more, if the wind is against you on the North Sea coast it can feel like going up a steep hill and is relentless.
Take any opportunity to climb out of the saddle - because there really is no need to but your backside will feel the better for some respite from the saddle
Nice one. Thanks all.
Helmet = you'll stand out as a tourist
...if the wind is against you...
It's Holland. It's always a headwind. The place is devoid of trees to act as a windbreak too. 😉
Fire up strava. You can get a KoM for climbing up the ever so slight incline after going thru the under pass under the A12.
Stroopwafels (syrup waffles) are best hot direct from the guy making them, and have more than enough calories to fuel that 80 mile ride. Forget nonsense like gels.
Don't get angry when septuagenarians on ebikes or teenagers on mopeds pass you on cycle paths...
Watch out for Brits at junctions.
Many don't get the concept that bikes have right of way crossing side roads despite the obvious markings.
Enjoy.
There is no other country I've visited where a three year old can pedal to get somewhere so easily and safely. Although the locals definitely think it's weird seeing such a youngster under their own steam.
Notes from the Flatlands (Fear and Loathing on the Canal Trail):
- Cycling without a helmet feels odd.
- You just can't anticipate which way a teenage girl on a bike is going turn. It's safer not to try to overtake ever.
- Singlespeed is the correct speed.
- Don't bother trying to follow a 'National Cycle Path' they follow no logical route whatsoever. Pick a road and use the cyclepath next to it.
- Don't rely on the 'Ride with GPS' app to get you through The Hague.
- After a few miles even the incline over a canal will seem like Scafell Pike.
- Don't rely on the 'Ride with GPS' app to get you through The Hague
I refer you to my point 2. above 😀
Canal paths are hard to navigate after lots of recreational drugs
Take a lock.