Tips & Tricks

The family bike

How to discover the Gironde as a family? The answer is simple: by bike of course! But beware, for everything to happen in joy and good humor, it is necessary to prepare well before leaving. To help you, we reveal the golden rules of family cycling. All this will not avoid the “Are we still far ???” but you are used to it! 

Well equipped you will leave

A family bike trip can be one of the best experiences to have but also a difficult time. Puncture, muscle aches, rain… these are all causes that can complicate this family epic. To avoid this (as far as possible), it is important to choose equipment that is suitable for everyone.

  • Choose the bike trailer (or follower bikes) to the baby seat if you are accompanied by young children. Not only will it be more pleasant for you, but also for him who will be comfortably seated like a prince in his carriage and will be able to enjoy the dry landscape if it rains.  
  • Remember to check the condition of the bikes (this is the basis, even without children). Look at the brakes, the tire pressure but also their condition, the lighting, the battery, oil the chain so that it doesn't break... Do not hesitate to stop from time to time at a bike hire/repairer, to be sure that everything runs smoothly! 
  • Make sure the size of the bikes is correct. The little darling shouldn't have sore legs pedaling a bike that's too small or too big. To find out if this is the right saddle height, nothing could be simpler, install it on the bike, its leg must be very slightly bent when the pedal is down.
  • Don't forget the helmets. Teens will say it's not cool and souvenir photos may be a little less beautiful (albeit slightly funnier) but safety is priceless. It is therefore strongly recommended that each member of the family be equipped with a suitable helmet and it is even compulsory for children under 12 years old. Also remember to bring gloves to prevent possible blisters and yellow vests for safety. Glasses can also be essential and not only protect yourself from the sun, believe us, a gnat in the eye can ruin a day. 
  • Plan an appropriate outfit. Well it goes without saying but we avoid dresses, skirts AND jeans. Comfortable clothing required! 
©La Vélodyssée Aurélie Stapf–porteurdesonge.com

A suitable course you will choose

“Everyone at their own pace” will be your motto throughout the course. Even if you think that the future yellow jersey lies dormant in you, for a first trip avoid overestimating yourself and also think of your children who are not going at the same speed. 
It is important to choose easy cycling routes with as many cycle paths as possible to avoid riding alongside cars. Itineraries on greenways, old railway lines or along the canals are perfect for beginners. Do not hesitate to practice with your children near your home before embarking on a trip of several days. Favoring short stages, between 15 and 25 km for a day seems to be a good range for beginners. 
Once the route has been chosen, study the different stages in advance so that you can target the stops along the route. Whether for meal breaks, visits, freshness and even bathing : ) 
Finally last advice, try to leave early to make the most of the day and especially to have a reserve time in case of unforeseen.

©La Vélodyssée Aurélie Stapf–porteurdesonge.com

A few more tips you will listen to 

Here are the 10 commandments of a family cycling holiday 

  1. Prepare to avoid unpleasant surprises
  2. Check the weather before you go
  3. Go to a specialized bike shop to make sure you don't forget anything
  4. Organize the program for each step in advance, allowing time for contingencies (yes there will be)
  5. Study the route carefully using information from tourist sites or the sites of family influencers who have already tested the route, for example.
  6. Be careful, anticipate that trailers are not allowed on trains and find out about the availability of places for bicycles according to timetables.  
  7. Provide sufficient energy supplies and water bottles.
  8. Remember that the Highway Code applies to cycling
  9. Be sure to drive to the right, stop at crossroads and have both hands on the handlebars. 
  10. Teach your children the safety rules before starting each stage. 

A pro for family cycling trips, you will be