Cyclist or tourist
Cyclists who tour vs tourists who cycle
I am an avid reader of epic bicycle touring books. The best books transport you to exotic places experiencing chance encounters and different cultures, overcoming insurmountable challenges, and basking in the thrill of achievement.
Are you a cyclist who tours or a tourist who cycles?
Are you a cyclist who tours or a tourist who cycles? Several authors reflect on this question in their journeys and interactions with other bicycle tourists. Some cyclists crave unique experiences and cultural encounters. Others crave the physical challenge more than the sights.
My perspective on bicycle touring is summarized in two sentences. It’s about smiles and not miles. It is about the in-between and not the origin or destination. There are many perspectives different than mine.
Bicycle tourists map out their adventures based on what matters most. They balance enjoyment, realistic schedules, and embracing the challenges and practicality of their tour. Different motivations and experiences lead cyclists to explore the world by bike.
Self-discovery and challenge
The bike can be a vehicle for self-discovery. A bicycle tour mentally and physically challenges the cyclist to take cycling and life to a new level. A tour pushes limits, builds resilience, and grows a sense of accomplishment.
Connections and the experience
Being a tourist at the speed of a bike is a deeper connection with people and places along the route. Bike time is savoring the sights and sounds of the surroundings. Cycling routes offer more opportunities to explore small towns, local flavors, and unspoiled nature bypassed by highways.
Self-reliance and freedom
Bicycle touring is ditching the routine and routine for adventure. The cyclist sets the pace, maps the route, and takes breaks when the mood strikes. Some choose being self-supported embracing the challenge of primitive camping. Others find freedom on credit-card tours where a warm meal and comfortable bed await. Freedom is exploring on your terms.
Focus beyond cycling
Cyclists lead diverse lives beyond cycling. A bicycle tour allows them to indulge in their other passions. Whether delving into American history, exploring canals and railroads of the past, connecting with nature and ecology, or kayaking and hiking, tours blend cycling with other pursuits.
Breaking though barriers
Bicycle touring is often seen as something beyond the reach of the casual cyclist. The rise of the e-bike challenges this notion. The motor brings self-discovery, challenges, cultural connections, and the freedom to explore by bike to a wider audience. The access to and connectivity of trails and trail-friendly communities fuel the trail economy that removes the barriers to pedal-powered cyclists.
Are you a cyclist who tours or a tourist who cycles?
As the bicycle touring book authors have explored, the reasons for hitting the road on two wheels are as diverse as cyclists. There's no single answer. Being a tourist or cyclist first holds equal merit. The beauty of bicycle touring is that it can be whatever you want. It's about what ignites your passion to get on the bike to see the world.
Tom,
You are SO right about the diversity of cyclists and perspectives. So many different styles, goals, missions, motivations, etc., all leading to different experiences.
Lately, I have been using the term "adventure cyclist" to describe what I do. I seldom feel like a "tourist". But like you, for me the "reward" is most definitely about the "Folks Along the Way" and the "in between" the destinations.
My motivations are adventure, challenge, and of course, my mission to support prostate health. But although my rides CAN be VERY physically challenging at times (You recall Gauley Mtn!), the main challenge for me is not the physical, but the mental and emotional challenge of striking out alone and unsupported in places I've never been before.
Yep! We all do it our own way! ☺