The bike path

Even if you’re not a cyclotourist and you’re tempted by the adventure, it’s within your grasp.

On average, a cyclist travels three times as far per day as a walker, for the same amount of time.

The space belongs to you.

Need to see a site off the beaten track? Don’t worry, 20 km is only an hour and a half’s drive!

Want to take your favorite book with you? No problem! The weight limit is well above that of a walker.

Bicycles mean freedom of movement, and freedom itself!

The choice of bike will be for a road bike, to leave the paths free for pilgrims on foot.

Here are a few tips on bike preparation, bike equipment, routine maintenance, rider equipment and route planning.

Bike preparation

In view of the gradients encountered on the route, plan for a gear ratio <= 1 (number of teeth on the largest sprocket / number of teeth on the smallest chainring).

• If you choose a touring car: it must be equipped with either front or rear luggage racks, or both.
  
• If you choose a GRAVEL bike: in addition to riding on the road, you can consider a trip to the forest paths. But it’s no substitute for a mountain bike.
  This one will get you into BikePacking.

And for bike equipment:

You can always fit a bike with a luggage rack attached to the seatpost.
Whatever your choice, you’ll need front and rear lighting, and a horn.
For pedals, choose flat ones, which are more comfortable for touring.
For disc brakes, choose cable brakes.
For luggage, visit specialized websites such as LeCyclo.com, Décathlon, Probike….

Bike maintenance

Before setting off, you’ll need to give your bike a complete overhaul.

• New chain and cassette
• New brake pads
• New tires and tubes
• Checking cables and sheaths

You’ll need to be able to troubleshoot simple breakdowns, such as punctures, broken cables and brake pad changes. You can also consider repairing the chain while you’re waiting to find a repairer.

You’ll need to take it with you:

• 2 inner tubes
• 1 folding tire
• 1 tool kit including :
• 3 tire levers
• 1 box of Rustines
• 1 multi-tool set
• 1 chain daggerboard

Cycling equipment

Your equipment will be that which you use on your outings. In Spain, yellow reflective vests are compulsory.
First-aid kits and toiletries are the same as for other pilgrims.

• Short or long shorts, depending on the season(2)
• Quick-drying technical T-shirt (3)
• Socks (3 pairs)
• Jacket (1)
• Waterproof windbreaker.
• Evening fleece (1)
• Baby diaper cream.

Itinerary

Once you’ve chosen your route, you’ll need to plot it. Use maps from an old road guide that you’ve photocopied.
Trace your route on these maps and simultaneously trace the same route using specialized software (Openrunner, gpx.studio…).

You will obtain a gpx file: Example: Sp8.gpx
Choose your gps or use your smartphone. In all cases, remember to take a banksource.
A course can be offered in case of difficulty
Think of your memories: photos, stories, etc.

Putting it into practice

Preparation sessions with outings are offered regularly throughout the year.