Cycling Tour

THIS is not just an opportunity to travel down beautiful mountain trails, it is an encounter with a Bali that most travellers never see. The route is through villages that have only recently acquired electricity and where steel and concrete are still uncommon. Tradition abounds in the elegantly carved temples and the rustic family compounds that glide by.

There are also countless opportunities to meet the locals, to stop for a while and enjoy a refreshing drink of young coconut water while chatting with farmers or wood carvers. Take in the sights of Bali with a downhill adventure on one of cycling tours. Cycling into the traditional Balinese villages, fantastic natural beauty and an insight into the daily life of the local farming communities and much more.

Away from the packed road madness of the southern resort areas, you will find a number of bicycle rental shops or cycling tour organisers. Most pedal-pushers can find their own way around, however there are some river-rafting companies offering day trips on mountain bikes, which are well worth taking until you get your bearings.

Tips for bikers
Whether you're commuting or riding for fun, sometimes it's a must to ride either near or in traffic areas. Here are some tips on maintaining a safe ride:

• Bikes can be rented practically anywhere these days and all are mountain bikes (18-speed). Ask your tour operator about using mountain bikes and safety equipment.
• Packages includes: air-conditioned return transfers, mountain bike, safety helmet, complimentary riding gloves, drinking water, buffet meal, changing room, toilet facilities and insurance coverage. Rates are quoted in US$ including tax and service charges.
• Wear clothes suitable to bicycle riding. A hat or sunscreen is recommended for all outdoor activities in Bali. Bring a sports or walking shoes.
• Trail routes were surveyed and developed by. They don't use other people's trails.
• The trail is downhill. Before you panic, relax it is any easy ride, still a little adventurous but exhilarating, fun, educational and occasionally hilarious.
• If you feel that you need a break, they'll load your bike and you can sit back in their support vehicles which follow your trip.
• Cycling trips are suitable for beginners and experience cyclists alike, with children's bikes available.
• The guides are professional biker and trained in best practice safety techniques and first aid. They usually come from the surrounding regions and educate with a broad depth of knowledge in flora and fauna, culture, and lifestyle of Bali, to help make your adventure not only exciting but also educational and interesting. If you only do one tour whilst in Bali, this is the one, packed with interest, education and fun.
• Always remain visible. Wear colors like yellow, orange or red, also use lights and reflectors. Try to have clothes and bags with reflective material when riding in the evening or at night.
• Don't cut in line. At a red light be polite and wait your turn. Earn the respect of the motorists.
• Ride the straight and narrow. Don't swerve between cars, even if they are parked.
• Hold your ground. Ride far enough into the traffic lane to avoid being hit by people opening car doors. Remember if cars are honking at you they can see you.
• Use signals. Not only is it the law but it's good safety practice to let the motorists know where you're going. Avoid horns, they can be more distracting and less safe.
• Don't be timid. Using signals and letting drivers know what to expect from you can go a long way. Don't give up the right of way simply because you don't have a motor.
• Watch out for them. Drivers often make errors that injure cyclists, watch out for them. Usually these involve turning right in front of a cyclist, so be ever watchful.
• Be prepared. Carry emergency contact info and other first aid kits in your seat pack in the unlikely event you are injured.

Click here to know more where to cycle in Bali.