Bicycles are a good match for both tent and RV camping. They are light weight and provide economical transportation around camp and for local shopping and sightseeing trips. They are environmentally friendly and provide good exercise to help you keep in shape. Bicycle riding is a fun activity for families, couples, and even solo.
Bicycles are not usually associated with boating but you could bring a bicycle along to use on shore at your destination or stops along the way. The limited space on smaller boats doesn't lend itself very well to transporting bicycles but if you have room on board there is no reason you couldn't take a bicycle with you if you want.
Bicycles can be carried on an RV, a tow vehicle, or the family car. They are light weight and take up little room. Some even fold up so they fit in your trunk or an RV outside cabinet. They require few tools or spare parts. New bicycles may range in price from under $100 to more than $10,000. You'll probably want something in between. Cheap bicycles are, well, cheap. They are usually not as light and may not function as smoothly or be as durable or reliable as more expensive models. You can usually get a pretty good bike for a few hundred dollars. If you have the budget for it, there are amazingly light racing bikes made of leading edge materials that are very durable and fun to ride. You can usually find good used bikes at thrift stores. Sometimes they may have already been reconditioned, but the lower cost of ones that haven't been may make them good buys if you have the tools and skills to do the work yourself -- or other resources to get them in shape.
Choose a bike that fits your needs. There are several different general types of bicycles, each designed for a different riding style. Road bikes are the fastest and usually the lightest weight. They have very thin, high pressure tires and drop down handle bars. The thin, hard tires minimize rolling resistance and are designed for riding on smooth pavement. The drop down handlebars make the rider crouch into a low profile that reduces wind drag. These are the style of bike used in high speed, long distance road races. The bent over riding position may be uncomfortable to some riders. A fitness or hybrid bike is much like a road bike but doesn't have the drop down handlebars. These are very popular bikes for recreational and fitness use. City bikes have high handlebars and seats designed for upright riding. Cruisers are designed for short comfortable rides. They have larger seats, wide handlebars, and fatter tires. They often called "beach cruisers" because of their popularity for riding in the sand. Mountsain bikes are designed for off road use, with sturdier, softer, knobby tires for traction and rugged frames. Mountain bikes often include suspension systems to smooth the ride, Consider the weight when purchasing a bike. Lighter bikes will take less effort to ride but because of the more costly materials (carbon fiber, titanium, aluminum) will usually be more expensive. Weight is a more important consideration for racing or for off-road riding than it would be for recreational riding on city streets. Pretty much any bike that is comfortable for you to ride will be suitable for campgrounds and local excursions. If you expect to do any trail riding or other off-road riding, consider a mountain bike. If you find bending over hard on your back you can usually change the handlebar stem to a high rise model that lets you sit more upright. I did that on my mountain bike and it made riding a LOT more comfortable. Some bikes have active suspension systems that absorb he bumps in the road or trail. Of course springs, shock absorbers, and linkages add weight but it is often well worth it for the added comfort.
Bikes come in single or multiple speed versions. Cruisers are usually single speed bikes with a "coaster brake". To stop the bike, pedal backwards to engage the brake within the hub of the rear wheel. Multiple speed bikes use different sized sprockets on the pedals and on the rear wheels to provide a variety of gear ratios for different riding conditions. Low gear ratios make it easier to pedal up inclines while high gear rations yield faster travel. Road bikes, mountain bikes, and most fitness bikes are multiple speed bikes. Multiple speed bikes have hand brakes. These normally have pads that grip the edge of the wheel but more effective, more durable, and more expensive disc brakes are becoming more popular. Disc brakes may be a little safer because they are less affected by moisture you might get on the rims riding in wet conditions.
For many years bicycles had no suspension at all. The wheels were mounted directly to the frame. This made for a rather stiff and bumpy ride. My mountain bike has no suspension and I can feel every pebble in the pavement when I ride my mountain bike on the road. Today there are many suspension options. Front suspension reduces hammering of your hands, arms and shoulders. Rear suspension makes the ride softer. As you would expect, the more sophisticated the suspension, the more costly the bike. If you're mostly just riding around the campground or over smooth paved roads, suspension will probably not be necessary. But if you are riding trails or going on long rides or encounter rough roads, suspension will be very desirable. My first bicycle, many years ago, had a simple front suspension called "knee action". The front wheel was mounted on a secondary fork that was hinged and had a spring at the top of one set of forks to absorb the bumps. Modern suspension usually includes shock absorbers that dampen movement and absorb impact as well as springs. Some bikes may have only front suspension to lessen the stress on your arms and shoulders. Bikes with rear suspension will be more comfortable to ride, especially on rough roads or off-road trails, but they will be more expensive. When riding a standard bike without any suspension you will feel every bump, even the very texture of the gravel in asphalt pavement and that can be quite tiring. You can usually even feel the difference between riding on the white line at the edge of the road compared to riding on bare asphalt. Of course suspension components will add a little weight to the bike too.
Motor powered bicycles are available but not commonly seen. They may be powered by a small gasoline engine or by a battery powered electric motor. Motor driven cycles minimize the effort needed to get around but also reduce the exercise component of cycling. Motor driven cycles may be prohibited on many trails. Motor driven bicycles usually do not meet the standards for motor vehicles and riding them on public thoroughfares may be illegal.
Folding bicycles are designed to fit into the storage compartment of RVs or the trunk of your car. They are usually single speed bikes designed primarily for cruising around the campground or short trips to the store. I would probably not choose a folding bike because I like to do a lot of exploring, and a multi-speed bike is far better suited for that. But having a folding bike in the RV for getting around camp or quick trips to a nearby store might be a real advantage.
There are even all wheel drive bicycles. These have an option to engage a second chain that connects to the front wheel. As you can imagine, the linkage is somewhat complicated. Just like 4-wheel drive vehicles, the all wheel drive bicycle is designed for added traction in off-road conditions. I owned one for a while and found that the added weight and friction of the front wheel drive made it less appealing than I thought it would be. Perhaps if I'd been riding on muddy or otherwise slippery trails the extra front wheel traction may have been more noticeable and appreciated, but I found my regular mountain bike more comfortable and easier to ride on the hard-packed or sandy desert trails I normally rode.
If you have any problem maintaining balance you might to for a three-wheeled bike. With full sized wheels and other modern innovations they are a far cry from the tricycle you rode as a toddler.
Bicycle racks are a good way to transport your bicycles. Or you can transport them in the bed of your pickup or in your trailer. Bike racks can be found to fit just about any vehicle. There are some that slide into the trailer hitch receiver, some that clamp over a rear-mounted spare tire, some that attach to the trunk and bumper of a car. There are roof racks that can carry your bikes on top of your vehicle. I often see bike racks on top of tent trailers. I had an 8-bike rack custom built to fit the trailer hitch on my motorhome to accommodate full size bikes for my family of 8. It carried 4 bikes on each of two levels. Whenever using any bike rack, be sure to tie down the bikes securely. You want to restrict movement to avoid chafing that can damage paint or other components as well as make sure they don't fall of en route. Look for a rack that has padding to protect the parts of the bike that come in contact with the carrier. You can use ratchet tie down straps to limit movement and ensure your bikes and rack remain secure.
Used bicycles can be a real bargain. Check your local bike shop, classified ads, garage sales, thrift stores, and online sites like craigslist and ebay. You will want to acquire some knowledge about brands and prices to ensure you recognize a good deal when you find one and to avoid getting ripped off. Thrift stores often offer the best values. Because of their low overhead they can afford to sell at lower prices and often the bikes have been reconditioned by knowledgeable thrift store employees. As you would purchasing any used equipment, inspect it carefully to make sure everything is there and in good working order. A bike that needs minor work can be an excellent value IF you have the resources to make the necessary adjustments and repairs but one that only needs a flat tire fixed won't do you any good if you can't fix it. I have seen $1200 mountain bikes in good shape sell on craigslist for $200 so with a little patience you may be able to get a really good deal on a used bike.
Like any mechanical device, bicycles require a certain amount of maintenance to keep the working well. Most maintenance can be done by the owner/rider. Even changing tires or brake pads (on bikes equipped with hand brakes) is usually within the capabilities of the average owner/rider. Regular lubrication is necessary to maintain smooth operation and reduce wear. Lubrication points include axle bearings, crank bearings, and head bearings (where the stem that holds handle bars turn in the frame). Bikes with suspension will have additional moving parts that need to be regularly inspected and lubricated. Chain adjustment is also part of routine maintenance. A loose chain may come off. A tight chain may cause excessive wear or make shifting difficult. Multiple speed bikes also required adjustment of the shifter. This is a little more technical and many owners take their bikes to a professional for a "tuneup" periodically. Owner riders can usually learn to adjust hand brakes. Frequently check the wheels for loose spokes. If you over-tighten spokes you can "tweak" the wheel so it doesn't run true. Unless you have the skills and proper tools for truing the wheel, you'll need to take it to a bike shop if the wheels begin to wobble or the spokes get excessively loose. The shifters on multi-speed bikes can be difficult to adjust. If you have problems you can't solve yourself you may have to take it to a bike shop for a "tune up". I found them to be surprisingly inexpensive and well worth it.
Always wear protective gear when riding a bicycle. Many cities and states have laws at least requiring riders under a certain age to wear helmets but it is ALWAYS a good idea to wear a helmet, regardless of your age or local laws and it doesn't matter whether you're riding on the road or off road. Other apparel to make you more comfortable may include riding shorts, which have a padded crotch to reduce irritation from the seat. Speaking of the seat, if you find the one on your bike isn't comfortable, there are many aftermarket seats to choose from so you can probably find one that fits your body and your riding style better. Gloves will keep your hands from chafing on the hand grips and will significantly reduce the chance of blisters. They will also keep your hands warmer in cool weather while light weight gloves usually are still comfortable in hot weather. Cycling gloves are specially designed for riding comfort. Some bicycle gloves have open finger tips. Personally, I prefer full fingered gloves. They provide more consistent protection. Heavy work gloves will be cumbersome and could cause blisters. Off road motorcycle gloves would also be a good option. Riding jerseys are designed to provide flexible movement and keep you comfortable but many riders wear ordinary T-shirts or polo shirts. In warm weather you want something that will wick away your sweat. In cooler weather you may need to add a windbreaker or other cold weather clothing. Rain gear is essential for comfort in wet weather. Professional cyclists wear special shoes but I've found light weight running shoes to be very comfortable for my needs and wearing my cowboy boots prevents my pant legs from getting caught in the chain. Avoid wearing pants with loose legs as they can get caught in the chain. If you don't wear fitted pants, tie up the leg on the side where the chain is to keep it from getting caught. When I was a kid we used to use metal spring clamps that fit around our pant legs just above the ankle but I haven't seen them in years. A large rubber band or a small bungee will do the job. Wearing gaiters or leggings may also help, weather permitting; they might be uncomfortably hot in warm weather. Rear view mirrors, either helmet mounted or handlebar mounted, will let you see traffic approaching from behind you and to keep track of other riders when you're out front.
Riding a bicycle requires a fair amount of exertion. Even on cooler days you're going to lose moisture through sweat and through breathing. It is essential that you maintain adequate hydration when riding to avoid heat related illness. A Camelbak style hydration pack is one of the most convenient ways to stay hydrated while riding. You can sip from the mouthpiece anytime without having to stop your ride. Most bikes are or can be equipped with brackets or a least a place to mount brackets on the front part of the lower frame to hold a water bottle. Regardless of the method you use, always carry water and drink frequently to avoid dehydration. If you're just starting out riding after a sedentary life style, you may want to consult your doctor before you begin to ensure you are fit enough to ride. You may need to start with an easy regimen and work your way up in order to avoid discomfort and health problems.
If you are just getting into cycling, it would be a good idea to check with your doctor first to make sure you are physically fit enough to proceed. Then start out easy and work your way up. A few days of riding "around the block" before tackling any long rides or steep hills is a good way to build up strength, skill, and stamina. I like to plan my training rides so that I am going uphill on the way out and can take advantage of downhills to coast a little on the way back. That being said, it always seems to me that no matter where I ride it is ALWAYS uphill both ways! I must not notice the downhills on the way out until I have to pedal back up them on the way back.
Bicycling can be a great family activity. You may be able to spend more quality time and enjoy a closer look as you explore the sights and sounds around you with far greater intensity than you get flying by in an air conditioned vehicle. With a little planning you can stop along the way for a picnic lunch or pedal to the local burger joint or ice cream parlor for a special treat. Bicycling allows you to travel farther and faster and easier than walking but still lets you get significant exercise and have full access to the sights and sound. Plus you have the option to easily alter your course to explore interesting places along the way.
Security may be a concern. Bicycles are very popular and are fairly easy to steal and to sell. Always lock up your bike when you aren't using it, both in camp and when you stop along your ride. My youngest son learned this lesson the hard way when his brand new bike was stolen just days after he received it for his birthday. Ironically it was stolen while he was in the store buying a bike lock! He came out with a really nice bike lock only find that his bike was gone. Be sure to record the serial number of your bike if it has one so you can give it to law enforcement if it is stolen. It is also a good idea to engrave your own ID number somewhere on the frame where it won't be easily seen but can be used to prove it's yours if recovered by law enforcement.
Bicycle safety involves more than wearing a helmet and keeping your balance.
In most jurisdictions, bicycles are bound by the same laws as motor
vehicles. although all too often you will see bicyclists disregard stop
signs and stop lights and lane usage. I have seen places were rules for bicycles have been relaxed to allow them to pedal through stop signs and stop lights without stopping, but it seems to me to be a very dangerous practice. And, yes, you can get a speeding
ticket or a ticket for running a stop sign on a bicycle. Some bicyclists prefer to ride against traffic,
but that is usually illegal and is actually quite dangerous. True, you have a
better view of on-coming traffic like walking against traffic, but motorists won't be looking for you
to be coming down the wrong lane, which can be disastrous if they're
pulling out of a driveway or parking space and watching for traffic
coming up from where motor vehicles would normally be. Take advantage of bicycle lanes when they
exist but be aware that they often end with little or no warning. When
riding on public roads, ride single file and stay near the right hand
edge of the pavement. Riding on sidewalks or in crosswalks is usually
prohibited but you will see a lot of riders ignoring that law.
Remember, you are required to obey the same traffic laws on your bicycle
as you have to obey driving a motorcycle, car, or RV. Laws typically require motor vehicles to maintain at least 3 feet between them and bicycles when passing them. To maintain maximum safety, always ride as close to the side of the road (away from the traffic lanes) as you safely can. Always ride single file when there is other traffic on the road. Some roads have designated bicycle lanes for added safety. Even when riding in designated bike lanes you should ride as far away from traffic as you can. Cars near you can't always swing out to give you more space if there is traffic coming the other direction towards them and many drivers may drive closer to bicycles to avoid crossing over double yellow lines to go around them even if there is no traffic coming. The fines for crossing the double yellow line can be expensive!
Safety is a primary concern when riding a bicycle --enough so that it bears a second mention. You have little protection if you collide with anything -- a car, a tree, another rider, a pedestrian, or even soft ground so you want to avoid dangerous situations. Even soft grass can be a painful place the land. In most places, bicycles are required to obey the same laws as motor vehicles. That means coming to a complete stop at stop signs, signaling your turns, and avoiding impeding traffic. Some riders like to ride against traffic so they can see cars approaching. In most places this is illegal as well as unsafe. I nearly hit a bicyclist riding against traffic on the wrong side of the road as I pulled out from a parking space. I was legitimately concerned about traffic approaching from the rear and, like most people, never expected a bicycle to be riding the wrong way in the lane I was entering right next to the parked cars, so he nearly ran into the front of my car when I began to pull out. When riding in a group, ride single file whenever there is traffic present to minimize your impact on traffic and reduce the chances of one of you being struck or forced off the road. Normally bicyclists don't ride fast enough to exceed posted speed limits,but be aware that you are subject to posted speed limits when riding a bicycle so think about that going down hill. I've seen bikes easily exceed 50 mph coasting down hill on mountain roads. While that may be exhilarating, it is also very dangerous. Stopping will be extremely difficult and even hitting a very small obstacle may be enough to make you crash. And, at that speed, it won't be a pretty sight! Even if you believe you have the right of way, competing with large motor vehicles isn't a wise thing to do. You may be right, but in the end you could be DEAD right!
Bicycling is a great family activity and unless you have physical limitations can be a great way to do some sight seeing and get some exercise. Bikes let you move faster and easier than walking, but slow enough to enjoy the scenery and you can stop to check things out any time you like. Add a basket or cargo rack and you can use your bike for quick trips to pick up supplies or to carry your picnic. In a pinch you might just hang a couple of plastic grocery bags on the handlebars to carry your stuff, but try not to do that because it will affect your ability to steer and control the bike.
Nighttime riding requires some special preparation. First of all, you will need to make you and your bike visible to other traffic. Most bikes are equipped with front (white) and rear (red) reflectors but not lights. You can add a headlight and taillight to help you see where you're going and make your bike even more visible at night. Most headlight systems use a generator that is driven by one of the tires, but that means you only have light when you are moving. Battery powered lights solve this problem, but batteries can run down fairly quickly. The best solution is a hybrid that uses batteries but charges them via a wheel-driven generator when moving. New LED based lighting reduces power requirements. I've seen inexpensive "flashers" you can clip to your clothing to make you more noticeable. Do not wear dark colored clothing when riding at night! Wear light colored clothing. For best results, wear something reflective. If you don't have any reflective bike apparel, a simple safety vest like those used by construction workers and road crews is pretty inexpensive and well worth the investment and they can be folded up small enough to fit in a bike pack or pocket. Class III safety vests are designed with extra reflective material for greater nighttime visibility and they aren't much more expensive than Class II daytime vests. You can get simple reflective bands that snap around your arm to add a little bit of nighttime safety. And they are not expensive: I've even found them at Dollar Tree on several occasions.
If you are really ambitious and in good physical condition, you might even use a bicycle to go camping. You will need to organize your gear and supplies so you can carry them on your bicycle. Some of it may go in a back pack, some of it in a rack over the rear fender, or some in saddle bags. Any way you cut it, you will want to minimize the weight you have to pack around. Make sure your bike is in good condition, properly lubricated and shifters and brakes properly adjusted. Always carry plenty of drinking water and have it readily available every time you stop. Bike water bottles are usually mounted in a rack on the lower bar beneath the crossbar or you can wear a hydration pack. If you find you just can't get your load down enough to carry you might be able to get a bike trailer (like those used to carry infants) to offload some of your gear. However, you will still be having to move all the weight and it will take as much energy regardless of whether it is on your bike or behind it. You will also get a little extra rolling resistance from the two additional tires on the trailer and pulling a trailer will reduce mobility and maneuverability and may limit the trails you can travel.
In addition to being used when camping or RVing, you can go camping and RVing on a bicycle! For basic camping you may be able to carry your tent and sleeping bag on a bike rack or on a pack on your back. If you need or want to carry more gear you may need a little trailer. There are trailers made for bicycles that can carry toddler and cargo. There are also some camping trailers built to be towed by bicycles. They usually include some cargo capacity so you can haul your gear as well as having a place to sleep in out of the weather. I have even seen so tiny Class C style RVs built onto a bicycle (more like a tricycle, but still with pedal power!) but I, for one, wouldn't want to pedal that up or down any hills!
Pedal power rules!
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