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Be
Prepared
Expect rain and bring good bikers' rain gear. A Gore-Tex raincoat
can double as a cool-weather windbreaker. You'll also be exposed
to the sun, so plan on using plenty of sunscreen. A bell is generally
required by law in Europe, so you should have one on your bike--for
giving a multilingual "Hi!" to other bikers as well
as a "Look out, here I come!" Even if you never ride
at night, you should at least bring a strobe-type taillight for
the many long and unavoidable tunnels. Smaller Presta tire valves
are standard in most of Europe, so if your bike has the automotive-type
Shraeder valves, take along an adapter. To guard against unsightly
road rash (and worse), always wear a helmet and biking gloves.
Obey Europe's Traffic Rules
Bikers generally follow the same rules as drivers. Some countries,
such as the Netherlands, have rules and signs just for bikers:
A bike in a blue circle indicates a bike route; a bike in a red
circle indicates bikes are not allowed. Be alert, follow the blue
bike signs, and these required bike paths will get you through
even some of the most complicated highway interchanges. Beware
of the silent biker who might be right behind you, and use hand
signals before stopping or turning. Stay off the freeways. Little
roads are nicer for biking, anyway.
Use Good Maps
Michelin's Europe and individual country maps are fine for overall
planning. In Europe, use local maps for day-to-day navigation.
Michelin, Touring Club Italiano, and Die Generalkarte 1:200,000
maps reveal all the quiet back roads and even the steepness of
hills. Don't be obsessed with following a preplanned route. Delightful
and spontaneous side-trips are part of the spirit and joy of biking.
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