What's the best thing about having a push bike with you when you're away in your van? (1 Viewer)

[Chipster]

Going by its measurements I think an Evoc travel bag will fit behind the passenger seat and I'll secure it with ratchet straps. The seats in the van don't swivel and aren't used when parked up so I'd put the bagged bike on the seats when camping. Alternatively I've a tow bar so could get an Altera or the like but I'd rather have the bike in the van. The prices of the bikes have been increasing a lot over the past few years (to put perspective on it it's costing about 3 times the value of my 900cc motorbike) but I decided to stop dithering and get one whilst I'm still active.
I'll take a look at Radfazz, thanks.

Yeah sounds like a plan. Boss lady bought a Specialized Turbo Levo a couple of yea ago and it’s been great for her. Let’s her do stuff she wouldn’t normally do. Let’s us both do longer, bigger rides together.

 

[Minxy]

We were on holiday in SW Scotland recently and there were a few times when we'd have used bikes to have a toddle into the local town, down the prom etc, but we only had one folding bike as hubby has a gammy hip and knee so stopped riding thus just one for me for the odd time we may need something. When we got home he mentioned getting a bike again but I knew full well he wouldn't ride it so he started looking at electrics and due to my current health issues I know I wouldn't be able to comfortably ride an unassisted bike at present either, consequently we have bought a couple of second hand Juicy folding electric bikes to see how we get on with them, as we're hoping to have another UK holiday at some point it will give us the opportunity to explore some of the cycle ways etc rather than just slobbing out in the camping chairs.

Just gotta sort out charging them when away in the MH, I think I'll end up putting a socket in the garage linked to the 12v system rather than have to have them inside the hab area but will wait until the MH is out of warranty otherwise hubby will have kittens.

 

[Dramfineday]

Ah Tonks you hit the nail on the head with your title "Push Bike"....... and the best thing for me about bicycles is - NOT pushing it (pushing implies up hills, steep upward braes, breathlessness and generally sweaty endeavours...no no no). Best left to fit, lycra clad types with steely manly chins (and that includes the women), polarised glasses, soft gel seats and tubes of Lanacane stashed in the panniers - just in case the gel seat doesn't work.

Now, an electric scooter........mmmm

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[Wikky]

Taking a bike with a mh enables the rider to use up the calories taken in by drinking beer/wine and sampling good food in various travel locations. This only applies to riders of proper bikes not e-bikes.

 

[dalspa]

I have a dodgy knee, as a result of playing football in my younger days (a long time ago), such that I don’t like going out for a long walk. However, biking doesn’t generally bother my knee. By bike we can cover about 4 times the distance than walking and, as such, can see so much more. When packing the motorhome the first essentials to go in are the biking clothes, gear and bikes. At home my wife rarely goes out on her bike, but when away she enjoys biking every day. She gets nervous on roads so I have to pick out relatively traffic free routes. She used to dread hills (even the most mini humps) and head winds but by getting her an ebike solved the issues. The ebike enabled us to go further with 30 to 40 miles no problem. Shopping is easy with the ebike as the rear bag (Topeak) has fold out panniers, being used in conjunction with my rucksack or pannier.
For is motorhoming is all about getting out on our bikes. Can’t wait to get back over to France for the quieter roads and brilliant towpaths, and dedicated cycle paths.

 

[Ridgeway]

In short for us they let us get about as a family and see things we’d otherwise miss when we’re away in the van. We tend to have a range of about 20km from the van, it’s a range that all the children can manage and also Mrs Ridgeway who tows the dogs in a trailer. Great exercise for my dodgy knees and low/no impact on joints vs running.

I’m a road cyclist at heart but also venture onto MTB as they are always some nice places a MTB can get to…

Yesterdays jaunt up above Lake Garda, MTB or hiking were the only options, I chose the later

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[Wh05apk]

We have e bikes and love them, before we had normal bikes and they got little use, we are fair weather riders, and use trails or cycle paths where possible.
Our favourite area is the Moselle and we can cycle miles along the river there, the ebikes also allow us to get up in the hills and enjoy the views from above.
We are currently near Scarborough, but a few days ago were at a ths south of bridlington, we cycled along paths into Bridlington, out the other side to sewerby Hall, then onto Flamborough head, stopping for fish and chips and a lemon top ice cream on the sea front. Stopping off at a supermarket to stock up on the way back.
This was about 20 miles mainly on paths, you see far more on bikes than walking, or racing past in a car or van.
Today we will probably cycle to Scarborough, and tomorrow Filey, weather dependent.
Neither of us are particularly fit, I have a lung condition, my wife has a dodgy knee, but the ebikes give us freedom, and exercise, and allow us to see those places inaccessible by van.
Ebikes still need input from the rider, they are not electric motorbikes, so still provide as much exercise as you want if you adjust the assist.

 

[dalspa]

Yesterdays jaunt up above Lake Garda, MTB or hiking were the only options, I chose the later

Stunning view. Did you hike up pushing the bike or did you find it at the top?

 

[No-Dun-Roamin’]

Saw this a couple of days ago. All bodies on bikes: Shimano interesting ?

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[Guigsy]

For those with 'slack' mountain bikes, have you tried to put one on the rear rack? My Bird AM9 is only size medium, but it pretty much hangs off both sides of a standard Fiamma bike rail. I ended up getting a longer rail as I nearly dropped the bike several times trying to strap it down. My new van has a Thule Elite rack and the rail is arched and slightly longer, but it's still a bit precarious. Also doesn't help that the tyres don't really fit into the channels either.

 

[Pappy]

We always take our bikes. Julie has an e mountain bike and I have a mountain bike. We enjoy the rides and often use the ride to do a bit of shopping.

 

[dosser]

Thinking of getting bike bags for the bikes to put in the garage of the motorhome. Does anyone else use them. Something along the lines of this one. https://www.wiggle.co.uk/lifeline-complete-bike-wheel-bags.
Cheers
Kenny.

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[ManTheVan]

Definitely worth persisting, especially if you have an e-bike. We take folding bikes (Brommies) and use them for getting around, sightseeing, shopping and errands.

 

[Puddleduck]

I hate cycling on roads but do love cycling. We will plan trips where we can have a day or more exploring old railway routes that have been converted to cycle tracks / paths and have done many miles that way. Apart from no traffic they are also usually fairly flat.

For some ideas:

Rail Trail Walking and Cycling Routes

Walking and Cycling routes, guides and maps for Rail Trail

www.gps-routes.co.uk

Rail Trail Walking and Cycling Routes

Walking and Cycling routes, guides and maps for Rail Trail

www.gps-routes.co.uk

We have done a few routes and no matter the times of year as long as the weather isn't "too" bad there is always something to see and enjoy.

 

[huck999]

We've got wisper torque bikes with biggish panniers and carry rack - ideal for the trip to aldi's. These fold but take up so much floorspace that we generally hang them off the back of the MH. Incredible mileage range so no problems going out for a days riding, especially as most european countries have vast networks of cycle lanes. We can park up and cycle into towns etc. We can also charge from 12v (not via inverter) so they are
always ready. Would prefer a scooter but 'lecky bikes are lighter.

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[Hayesdec]

Bit long-winded, sorry, but I'd be glad if you'd persevere...

I have a folding ebike which is ideal for the van. I took it in my van to the Netherlands, where it was excellent as transport from site to the steam fair I was visiting, but I've barely used it recently. As I know it was a costly gift, I feel guilty that it spends far more time sitting idle than out being used. I also have a 'standard' non-folding hybrid type bike, which I prefer riding but which isn't anywhere near as practical for the van.

I cycled a lot as a kid, but as an adult I was a runner (very slow!) rather than a cyclist.
I'm anxious cycling on roads. I had the great misfortune to pass an accident site where a cyclist had just been killed (these days I think some screens would have been erected so that traffic on the opposite carriageway would not have been able to see), and then a couple of years later was stuck not very far back in traffic after a child was knocked off his bike by a car and critically injured. I am also overweight and completely unfit after four years of battling with a foot injury, and an apparent inability to get myself back out of the rut that caused. I've basically put on 3/4 stone a year which clearly can't continue without catastrophic consequences.

So please can some of you motorhoming cyclists tell me some of the positives of taking your bikes away with you! And perhaps a bit of encouragement, bearing in mind that my current lack-of-fitness levels mean I'm not likely to go cycle touring in the Lake District any time soon. (And yes, I am aware that exercise is only 10-20% of the weight loss equation, but from times past when I was fit I know that I do a lot better with my eating when my training/exercise is on track.) I'm interested to know how many folk are serious cyclists - ie. who goes away in their van so they can spend a weekend on mountain biking trails, v how many are casual cyclists, who use bikes to get from van to local places of interest, or just for a bit of a tootle about local lanes.

Ta.

View attachment 502495

Hi
Once we get to where we are going in the Motorhome. We just use our bikes we think nothing of cycling a round trip of 30 miles. If we need shopping I just put my backpack on. Also we can stop at the pub for a couple of pints. No problem with drink driving. I used to love walking everywhere but my partner had ingrown toenails so I gave my electric bike to Janet and I bought a new one I have a specialised turbo levo.and Janet has my Trek these are good bikes cycling up the steepest of hills is as easy as going down. I am 69 Janet is 65. Would not be without them. Have since bought a blue wave Kyak see how far we can get in that. Lol

 

[62272]

Fetching Croissants from the campsite shop on the big French sites

No seriously, lots of cycle trails around France where it would be difficult to get to in a car, and mostly flat. Isle d’rai is all flat, and fantastic for cycling everywhere. (Non-electric type). Must be difficult with a foot injury though

 

[Jane And Rog]

A great form of exercise if you’re over weight, as there’s much less stress on your knees than from running, for example.

There are also many traffic free cycle paths in the UK, often disused railway lines so pretty flat. Canal paths can work too. You could stick to those until you have your confidence up.

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[Jane And Rog]

PhilMary what route was that? Sounds good.

 

[Tonks]

Thinking of getting bike bags for the bikes to put in the garage of the motorhome. Does anyone else use them. Something along the lines of this one. https://www.wiggle.co.uk/lifeline-complete-bike-wheel-bags.
Cheers
Kenny.

I've got a bike wrap for mine, and I definitely wouldn't be without it. It keeps any dirt/mud/water contained and avoids the inside of the van getting mucky, and it makes the bike easier to move around in the van as it slides easily across the floor (until secured for travel!). Also protects the bike itself to some degree.

 

[dosser]

I've got a bike wrap for mine, and I definitely wouldn't be without it. It keeps any dirt/mud/water contained and avoids the inside of the van getting mucky, and it makes the bike easier to move around in the van as it slides easily across the floor (until secured for travel!). Also protects the bike itself to some degree.

Cheers Tonks, that what I was thinking easier to get in and out the garage without scratching and catching on each other. Will be taking 3 bikes this year so if I need to carry one in the van it will be inside the bag so not to get chain oil everywhere and risk of damage to the van.
Cheers.
Kenny.

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[rosalan]

We were on holiday in SW Scotland recently and there were a few times when we'd have used bikes to have a toddle into the local town, down the prom etc, but we only had one folding bike as hubby has a gammy hip and knee so stopped riding thus just one for me for the odd time we may need something. When we got home he mentioned getting a bike again but I knew full well he wouldn't ride it so he started looking at electrics and due to my current health issues I know I wouldn't be able to comfortably ride an unassisted bike at present either, consequently we have bought a couple of second hand Juicy folding electric bikes to see how we get on with them, as we're hoping to have another UK holiday at some point it will give us the opportunity to explore some of the cycle ways etc rather than just slobbing out in the camping chairs.

Just gotta sort out charging them when away in the MH, I think I'll end up putting a socket in the garage linked to the 12v system rather than have to have them inside the hab area but will wait until the MH is out of warranty otherwise hubby will have kittens.

My wife has had problems with legs and hips etc but our folding electric bikes have given us both freedom to explore, shop etc. As for charging them, I have a cheap 900w inverter which charges both bikes daily without problems.

 

[Landy Andy]

Thinking of getting bike bags for the bikes to put in the garage of the motorhome. Does anyone else use them. Something along the lines of this one. https://www.wiggle.co.uk/lifeline-complete-bike-wheel-bags.
Cheers
Kenny.

I bag the front wheels that I remove from our bike but not the frames. If you remove both wheels to bag the bike I assume you will also have to straighten the steering bars, and won’t the bike frame then be sitting on its derailleur?? That won’t be good for it.

 

[Puddleduck]

Hi
Once we get to where we are going in the Motorhome. We just use our bikes we think nothing of cycling a round trip of 30 miles. If we need shopping I just put my backpack on. Also we can stop at the pub for a couple of pints. No problem with drink driving. I used to love walking everywhere but my partner had ingrown toenails so I gave my electric bike to Janet and I bought a new one I have a specialised turbo levo.and Janet has my Trek these are good bikes cycling up the steepest of hills is as easy as going down. I am 69 Janet is 65. Would not be without them. Have since bought a blue wave Kyak see how far we can get in that. Lol

We have a Blue Wave Kayak and a Sea Eagle. Lochore Meadows booked for early August - even if the loch near the centre is busy the loch is big enough for us to get up to the top end. Lots of cycling in that area as well.

We are thinking of getting electric motors for the kayaks. The motors that replace the skegs so we could kayak sail one way and motor back the other! The best kayak sails we have found are sturdy golf umbrellas ..... you can use them convex side or concave side to the wind depending on wind strength and you have a shelter if you want to pull up anywhere for a break.

If you ever get up to Northumberland or Scotland you should give us a shout and we can go out for a ride or paddle!

EDIT: Trying out the umbrella sails locally we were soon part of a flotilla of swans with cygnets who didn't appear to recognise we weren't also swans! They used their wings as sails to glide down the loch and then paddled back up! That was a fun afternoon

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[Derek’soldvan]

Ah Tonks you hit the nail on the head with your title "Push Bike"....... and the best thing for me about bicycles is - NOT pushing it (pushing implies up hills, steep upward braes, breathlessness and generally sweaty endeavours...no no no). Best left to fit, lycra clad types with steely manly chins (and that includes the women), polarised glasses, soft gel seats and tubes of Lanacane stashed in the panniers - just in case the gel seat doesn't work.

Now, an electric scooter........mmmm

I skipped most of the comments in this bit but Howells with laughter at yours, thanks

 

[PhilMary]

We have electric bikes which has opened up a whole host of opportunities to visit places we could have missed without them. I have an app which recommends various circular routes at various degrees of difficulty. We love them and can easily cover 20 miles in a day and we are both well into our sixties!

PhilMary what route was that? Sounds good.

Zingano are you asking about Lauder or are our posts mixed-up?

 

[Jane And Rog]

The C2C that was 90% off road. And would it be doable on a gravel bike?

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[tigerblue]

We got back yesterday after 9 days in Northumberland. Lugged the folding bike with a SWYTCH e-conversion, in a bag on the rack. Used it a couple times just for fun but was it worth the bother? Well the wife running along side trying to hold back the dog from chasing me me thought NOT!

 

[PhilMary]

The C2C that was 90% off road. And would it be doable on a gravel bike?

Yes, there is a CTC off-road version and yes a gravel bike would be best because there is some road sections.

 

[Jane And Rog]

Thanks - do you have a link to the route?

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