MALLORCA COLLS & CLIMBS : CAP DE FORMENTOR Let’s be clear about this. Formentor is not a mountain pass. It doesn’t traverse from one valley to the next. However, it is part of the mountains, in fact it could be argued that it’s the pinnacle of the Tramuntana mountains. It’s where Mallorca’s rocky backbone drops into the sea and it’s a mandatory inclusion in any cycling guide to Mallorca for a reason. Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s an easy and flat ride along a seaside peninsula. Once you get out of Pollença and onto the headland, the 15km of the Formentor road introduces itself with a 3km climb to the Colomer viewpoint (the KOM is held by a certain M. Contador). If you are on a relaxed day, take the time to walk the shallow steps to see the cliffs trace their way towards the lighthouse, it’s spectacular. The lighthouse has been there since the 1890s and was originally served by only a mule track. Ironically in this day and age, gravel riders would get excited about riding to the end of the Island on gravel. However, such is the beauty of the surfaced road that even the hardiest of off-road cyclists would be willing to exchange their 650bs for their 700c carbon wheels. And so they should : it took more than 200 people six years to finish the road. Enough time for the local Bishop to order an altar to be built so the workers could still attend mass. The famous engineer Paretti’s second-best road (Sa Calobra being the first, of course) allowed for the building of the peninsula’s only hotel by Adam Diehl – much like our own Cap Ferrat it took an entrepreneur to take on the rugged landscape of the headland. Diehl was a Paris-resident and advertised his hotel in lights on the Eifel Tower. The strategy succeeded and attracted the likes of Charlie Chaplin and F Scott Fitzgerald – both, incidentally, also visitors to Cap Ferrat. Mediterranean peninsulas have a certain appeal. At the lighthouse, surrounded by the ocean on the very tip of the landmass, you might experience what the locals refer to as ‘the meeting of the four winds’. It comes from every direction – the Iberian Peninsula, the Alps, North Africa and the Atlantic. Just like the cyclists do, and for good reason. Yes, the cap has beautiful walking trails, some impressive water-side architecture and dreamy secluded beaches, which you should visit if you have time. But look back from the lighthouse as a cyclist and see a prime example of why you came to the Island : the roads. STRAVA SEGMENT THE RIDE : To The Lighthouse

MALLORCA’S COLLS & CLIMBS : PUIG MAJOR If Paretti, the man responsible for most of the roads that traverse the Tramuntana mountains, had got his way you wouldn’t have to climb Mallorca’s biggest cycling climb. Three times he attempted to build a cable car line to the summit, three times warfare of some description stopped the project. Not that cycling visitors to the Island would take the easy option. Puig Major is to Sa Calobra what our own Col de Turini is to the Col de la Madone – the other, bigger option. It’s not as long as Turini but is still a stern hors categorie test from Soller, measuring 13.7km long. Michal Kwiatkowski knows both climbs and holds the fastest Strava time on Puig Major at 33:12, a record that has stood for six years. Mere mortals should aim for somewhere between 45 and 55 minutes. For those not going for a record time or training effort, take the alternative start from Soller to climb via the village of Fornalutx. Sometimes referred to as ‘the prettiest village in Spain’ it welcomes you with its orange groves which help give this side of the mountains the reputation as the ‘Valley of Gold’. Liquid gold. The road squeezes itself between the old stone buildings, past the town square before rejoining the main climb to get back to business. The local authorities know their audience well and have paved this side of the climb to perfection. The views across to the other side of the valley and down to the port of Soller just get better and better with each of the large open switchbacks as you climb towards the tunnel at the summit. The medium gradient of 6-7% allows you to choose your own effort but like many mountain ascents, the road gets a bit steeper in the final kilometers so pace yourself accordingly. The Monnàber tunnel provides a fitting finale to the climbing but this mountain delivers more on the other side. Through the tunnel the Cùber reservoir comes into view between the rocks and, after the effort, it may be tempting to take a dip. Continue on and the water of the second reservoir, the Gorg Blau is closer and even more inviting. It’s known as the ‘mirror between the mountains’ that has inspired local painters and poets alike. Look up to the left and the military dome on the adjoining peak is visible. The history books state that the Americans helped install this base and rumours still abound as to its use by them. Cyclists will notice and – depending on the effort already made – regret that the service road with its stacked switchbacks leading to the peak, is for army use only. Past the reservoirs another tunnel back through the belly of the mountain takes you towards Sa Calobra where an internal debate might rage – more climbing or back home for a dip in the pool? STRAVA SEGMENT Add it as the bigger option to the SOLLER & VALLDEMOSSA RIDE.

MALLORCA COLLS & CLIMBS : COLL DE SA BATALLA Cyclists stopping at petrol stations is usually associated with the discipline of bikepacking. But at the Respol station on the summit of the Coll de sa Batalla you won’t find many bikepackers, only Island-hopping cyclists, soaking in one of the Mallorca’s must-do climbs in the adjoining café. If you haven’t been to Mallorca you may not even have heard of Sa Batalla behind the noise that Sa Calobra and Formentor make. It could be classified as the Island’s ‘comfort climb’ – gentle slopes, a perfect surface and cafés at the bottom and the top. The name of the climb has two possible origins. The first comes from the story of a battle between local bandits and the law in the 17th century and the other is from the sound of bells at the nearby Lluc monastery. That monastery apparently started when a shepherd found a statue of the Virgin Mary back in the 13th century. Just as in the Alpes-Maritimes, the Madonna is to be thanked for roads like these. The climb starts in the quaint town of Caimari. It’s home to one of Mallorca’s best-known cafés, Sa Ruta Verda. They serve great coffee and healthy food and are so cycling-focused the owners refer to their establishment as a ‘feed-zone’. Before or after the climb, it is worth the stop. Sa Batalla can be summarized as the climb of three parts : through the first set of switchbacks, up along and through the ridgeline with a false flat before the gradient increases to the second set of hairpins. The pine trees provide welcome shade from the sun, as well as a reminder that you are now most definitely in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana. The passage through the rocks is memorable and offers a view up towards the summit. The beauty is that, at 7.2km and an average gradient of 5%, it can be ridden relatively easily or full gas. As always with cycling in Mallorca it very much depends on what has come before and what is planned for after the ascent, but that is the beauty of the Island. The options are plentiful. STRAVA SEGMENT THE RIDE : Femenia & Sa Batalla

MALLORCA COLLS & CLIMBS : COLL DE SÓLLER The construction of the road tunnel to Sóller in the 1990s was fraught with so much fraud and scandal, that it forced the resignation of the President of the Govern Balear. To this day, it’s maintenance and status as a toll road (or not) causes controversy. Cyclists on the island rise above it, literally, by climbing the Coll de Sóller. The two sides of the climb are notably different, the south being more open and gradual compared to the high sides and tighter switchbacks of the north side. The clever option is to go around and search the shade on the north if the sun is high and hot. Whichever side you choose, the views are stunning. It’s that sun that gives Sóller its French connection. The Port of Sóller served as a trading post between the Island and the French coast where the bounty of the temperate climate of the Sóller valley left for mainland France : oranges, lemons, olives, figs and almonds. On the return, exporters brought with them a bit of French culture via fashion, furniture and goods. So your Café du Cycliste jersey will not look out of place amongst the artisanal shops and cafés in Sóller’s beautiful Plaza de la Constitución. Like so many of Mallorca’s cycling routes, the locals have tuned into the needs of cyclists. Ca’n Topa, the café located right beside the summit sign provides a warm welcome to everyone, from pro riders on training camps to first-timers on the Island’s climbs. After this stop, descending back towards Palma offers a panorama over the rest of the Island like no other. Do it at sunset and the beauty will motivate you to explore more than just the Tramuntana mountains. Sóller Strava Segments: South Side North Side The Ride : Soller & Valldemossa

MALLORCA COLLS & CLIMBS : COLL DE FEMENIA If you base your Mallorca cycling holiday in Pollença, the Coll de Femenia is your entry point to the Tramuntana mountains. And what an introduction. The climb up the valley helps explain why the Island’s dramatic northern mountain spine was awarded UNESCO heritage status. The lower lush landscapes are lined by the dry stone walls, a material which also is used to construct terracing to make the rocky terrain scalable. Human endeavour to manage and climb the slopes, does it sound familiar? The road construction is the same. Like so many of the Mallorcan cycling climbs, Femenia is appealing because the gradual gradient allows you to pick your pace. The climb is 7.5km at an average gradient of 6% and, once again, the surface is nothing but impeccable. As you climb higher the surrounding landscape becomes more rugged. The Mallorcan mountain goats will most likely be watching, balanced on the cliffs above, making the most of the available resources around them. Look out also for the vultures circling on the thermals in the valley to your left. Femenia’s surrounding landscape is perhaps one of the most diverse of all the ascents on the island. Which is a good thing, because the summit itself is rather underwhelming. But, like Coll de Sóller, it’s a gateway to the rest of the mountain range the other great climbs of the Island. Follow the roller-coaster which eventually arrives at the Coll de sa Batalla and then pick your parcours for the return to Pollença. STRAVA SEGMENT THE RIDE : Femenia & Sa Calobra

WHERE TO RIDE ON MALLORCA : Sa Creu & Galilea It’s a little-known fact that only 5km lie between the front door of our Palma store and the start of the Coll de sa Creu. Small and sinuous, in parts it’s one of those roads that could pass for a dedicated bike path. Profit from the shade of the pine trees in the summer heat and take some refreshments in Calvia if needed. It’s a similar climb from Calvia to Galilea after which you can enjoy what is mostly a descent back to the city. key kit To catch the sweat on the climb and add the style in the café, take a classic cycling cap with a modern Mallorca cycling-inspried design. View the cap ride insights If you’re doing a shorter day, make the easy trip to the Island’s capital for history, culture and quality re-fuelling. Discover Palma. VIEW THE LOOKBOOK 1 - THE ROUTE Download the GPX Please login or create an account to download file. 2 - RENT AND RIDE Travel light and book your bike. Via our partners, Bikecamp, just as in Nice, you can choose from the latest range of Cervélo bikes to provide the best equipment for exploring the Island. Tours are also available for those who prefer to concentrate on pushing on the pedals and looking at the landscapes. VISIT BIKECAMP 3 - THE STORE Located in Palma's Plaça del Rosari, our Mallorca store is 15 minutes’ drive from the airport and 40 minutes’ ride from the Coll de Sa Creu. In-store you’ll find the full Café du Cycliste collection, a quality coffee, a big screen to watch the races and friendly faces to recommend rides and restaurants alike. You can find us at: Plaça del Rosarí 5, 07001, Palma other rides Sunshine, solid climbs, perfectly engineered roads, the Mediterranean and a local community tuned into the needs of the visiting cyclist. Femenia & Sa Calobra The jewel in the crown of Mallorcan cycling. Ride the ridgelines of the Tramuntana mountains and plunge down to the sea before tackling one of the Island’s toughest tests. VIEW THE RIDE To The Lighthouse Maybe the pièce de resistance of Mallorcan road engineering. An out-and-back ride like no other, plan it for sunset on the way back for some unforgettable Mallorcan cycling. VIEW THE RIDE Femenia & Sa Batalla A flowing ride from Pollença that allows you to find your own rhythm despite the hilly terrain. Make sure and stop at the bike friendly café on Coll de sa Batalla. VIEW THE RIDE Soller & Valldemossa Escape the city, scale the mountain, savour the scenery. Coll de Sóller delivers a strong challenge in the middle of a great loop starting and finishing in Palma. VIEW THE RIDE The North Coast Mallorca's contender for the best coast road in the world. The famous MA-10 road is a real cliff-hanger with many twists. VIEW THE RIDE A SA CALOBRA CELEBRATION Sa Calobra leaves a lasting memory. Celebrate your connection with the climb via the badged t-shirt and cap created in hommage to 'la cobra'. T-Shirts FOR HIM & FOR HER SHOP THE CAP Mallorca's most famous climb is also one of the most finely-laid ribbons of tarmac in Europe. As recognition of this, it was the first entry in our Montagnes du Monde global badge series. If you've ridden it, receive your badge reward by entering your ride details. HOW TO CLAIM A BADGE

WHERE TO RIDE ON MALLORCA : SOLLER & VALLDEMOSSA Escape the city and take the quieter MA-2013 to Bunyola to climb the southern side of Coll de Soller. The climb begins to the left of the tunnel that bores its way directly to the north coast. Savour the gradual gradient and switchbacks that wind their way through the olive groves and stop for a coffee in the summit café before the descent to the picturesque town that gives its name to the climb. Those on a bigger day can take a right at Soller and tackle the island’s highest climb, the Puig Major. For less distance, take the famous MA-10 through the lower mountains and towards the coast. At Valldemossa those wanting to touch their toes in the sea will also be rewarded by the views from the stacked set of switchbacks that lead down the steep cliffs to the Port below. On the return spin fast on the flat plains running through the olive and orange orchards that lead back to Palma. key kit Fleurette : climbing the south side of Coll de Soller involves basking in the sun. It’s what you came for but don’t overheat, ride in the lightweight Fleurette cycling jersey to stay cool. View the jersey ride insights Switchbacks, sunshine and smiles are delivered by the road almost exclusively reserved for cyclists. Discover more about the famous Coll de Sóller, one of the best climbs for road riders visiting Mallorca. VIEW THE CLIMB 1 - THE ROUTE Download the GPX Please login or create an account to download file. 2 - RENT AND RIDE Travel light and book your bike. Via our partners, Bikecamp, just as in Nice, you can choose from the latest range of Cervélo bikes to provide the best equipment for exploring the Island. Tours are also available for those who prefer to concentrate on pushing on the pedals and looking at the landscapes. VISIT BIKECAMP 3 - THE STORE Located in Palma's Plaça del Rosari, our Mallorca store is 15 minutes’ drive from the airport and 40 minutes’ ride from the Coll de Sa Creu. In-store you’ll find the full Café du Cycliste collection, a quality coffee, a big screen to watch the races and friendly faces to recommend rides and restaurants alike. You can find us at: Plaça del Rosarí 5, 07001, Palma other rides Sunshine, solid climbs, perfectly engineered roads, the Mediterranean and a local community tuned into the needs of the visiting cyclist. Femenia & Sa Calobra The jewel in the crown of Mallorcan cycling. Ride the ridgelines of the Tramuntana mountains and plunge down to the sea before tackling one of the Island’s toughest tests. VIEW THE RIDE To The Lighthouse Maybe the pièce de resistance of Mallorcan road engineering. An out-and-back ride like no other, plan it for sunset on the way back for some unforgettable Mallorcan cycling. VIEW THE RIDE Femenia & Sa Batalla A flowing ride from Pollença that allows you to find your own rhythm despite the hilly terrain. Make sure and stop at the bike friendly café on Coll de sa Batalla. VIEW THE RIDE Sa Creu & Galilea A short sharp loop from Palma city that quickly gets you onto quiet roads. A staff pick from the Palma store. VIEW THE RIDE The North Coast Mallorca's contender for the best coast road in the world. The famous MA-10 road is a real cliff-hanger with many twists. VIEW THE RIDE A SA CALOBRA CELEBRATION Sa Calobra leaves a lasting memory. Celebrate your connection with the climb via the badged t-shirt and cap created in hommage to 'la cobra'. T-Shirts FOR HIM & FOR HER SHOP THE CAP Mallorca's most famous climb is also one of the most finely-laid ribbons of tarmac in Europe. As recognition of this, it was the first entry in our Montagnes du Monde global badge series. If you've ridden it, receive your badge reward by entering your ride details. HOW TO CLAIM A BADGE

READY, SET, GO "Just what is it that you want to do? Well, we wanna be free, we wanna be free to do what we wanna do And we wanna get loaded and we wanna have a good time" Primal Scream Confinement in France is being relaxed and riding within 100km of home will be permitted. Appreciation for the open road will be set at 11 out of 10. Time, then, for one last dance on the home trainer. The final workout's main session has intervals consisting of two sprints that merge straight into a short time trial effort. Channel that excitement for the return to some sort of normality and get your legs loaded. Download the relevant workout file below : .PDF.FIT (heart rate).FIT (power).ZWO.ERG HAVE IT ALL BIKES & BREAKS Two obsessions, one love of the outdoors. Bikepacking to the beach in search of the perfect waves during a long weekend of cycling and surfing in Asturias. READ THE ARTICLE EZE BUT NOT EASY It's the Café du Cycliste hometown climb, just a five minute ride our front door. Watch this short hommage to Col d'Éze from Paris-Nice and Tour organisers, ASO. A QUICK HISTORY BUNDLE UP Mixed and matched tops and bottoms to make ideal combinations, like the Solenne and Renée gravel bundle. Two almost become one. SAVE 15% STYLE SELECTED Shop the look of products designed to go together, from primary colour duos to shades of the same base colour. WOMEN'S BUNDLES

IN SIGHT, IN MIND “How serene and great nature is, quite removed from this world" Werner Bischof Manon and Flo are confined in the mountains, up in Auron where they run their ski shop business. Within touching distance of great roads like the Col de la Bonette, but stuck on the balcony. Flo caught this stunning image of Manon and, with the plan to lift restrictions in France just announced, it says it all. You will need to imagine pushing to the heights of the Bonette during Workout #5 from Elevation Coaching. The main part of the session is four intervals of four minutes at nearly maximum effort. These are the seeds for a strong return to the road. Download the relevant workout file below : .PDF.FIT (heart rate).FIT (power).ZWO.ERG ARE YOU READY FOR THE BACK COUNTRY Everyone's riding terrain has its own particular characteristics. It not just the roads, but the details that we miss. Here's a Lookbook snapshot of the Alpes-Maritimes backcountry L'ARRIÈRE-PAYS IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BIKE Cycle EXIF is a photographic celebration of the bicycle in all its various forms and can provide great inspiration if you are tempted to splash out for a return to the outdoors. BEAUX VÉLOS THE MAJORITY JACKET Mauricette, combined with correct layering, covers almost all eventualities all year round with its lightweight, wind-cutting, showerproof fabric. PLAY THE ODDS SHOOT THE BREEZE The Dorothee wind jacket is so light, its performance-per-gram ratio is rumoured to be better than that of a Tour de France GC contender. VIEW THE JACKET

BIKEPACKING & ADVENTURE CYCLING GUIDE THE WANDERING SPIRIT Bikepacking. Adventure cycling. Brevet. Audax. There may be no umbrella term that covers every variation of exploring this world by bicycle, because in reality it’s each to their own. Race or relaxed, trans-continental or single-night micro-adventures, self-supported autonomy or credit card minimalism. Different methods and style mean there are many variables in the make-up of every bikepacking adventure. There are, however, some essential elements and this is a guide for those with wanderlust from those with experience. A guide to get out. Out there, somewhere. ESSENTIAL GUIDES Getting started, bike set-up, what to pack, where to go. Expert advice from those with experience. Preparation is key. GETTING STARTED Stagaire Sophie Gateau takes us through the learning curve from acquiring kit to becoming audacious. A NEW WORLD BIKE SET-UP Long-distance bike set-up part personal choice, part testing, part black art. DISTANCE MACHINES ROUTE PLANNING Road choice, meal stops, sleeping shelters and getting lost. Finding your own path is key. DRAWING LINES WHAT TO PACK List it, pack it, remove it, re-pack it and repeat. An exercise in minimalist practicality. Do you need it? CHOOSING AN EVENT The bikepacking season of events has evolved to become almost a year-round, global affair. So how do you choose which event to enter? SEE MORE THE MUST-DO LIST OF EVENTS To help navigate the global calendar, here is a curated selection of the ‘must-do’ bikepacking events. SEE MORE PREPARING FOR AN EVENT The point is to do as much work and preparation as possible so that once you start you can concentrate on the most important part : enjoying the ride. SEE MORE TALES FROM THE ROAD Feed your wanderlust by reliving the adventures of others. Each and every journey writes its own story. NORTH CAPE 4000 Bikepacking to the top of Europe, reindeers and sleeping in kids' sand-pits included as standard. EXTREME NORTH DUE SOUTH Nice to Palma between three friends, across two countries in via one ferry. A DIY AUDAX ADVENTURE IN SHORT FORM From desk to camp spot and back to desk in a matter of hours. Micro-adventures, big fun. MICRO ADVENTURE SLOW-VENIA The PCR Gravier collective know how to bikepack. Slow-venia is their latest installment. BOYS ON TOUR ALL ROAD KIT All road cycling apparel inspired by a desire to go further. Distance detailing on jerseys, bib shorts, gilets and accessories. Get dressed for adventure. SHOP WOMENS SHOP MENS FRAME BAG Waterproof construction with compartments for valuables and overnight essentials, plus a port for a charging cable. FRAME BAG CARGO SHORTS Durable, breathable shorts with pockets for daring distances and made with recycled materials. EVA HANDLEBAR BAG Created to carry your essentials on short escapades into the wilderness, this fully waterproof pouch provides the answers. HANDLEBAR BAG TOOL SADDLE BAG Minimal saddle pouch for essential tools to keep you moving. Constructed with waterproof and durable materials and components. TOOL BAG ALIZEE Alizee delivers full rain protection with a host of practical details. A breathable membrane, an adjustable hood and a pionnier spirit. ALIZEE Bike-packing in the Balkans Freediving champion and Caravan athlete Guillaume Néry saddled up with his partner to ride from southern Greece towards their home in Nice. Discover A Traverse Across the Pyrenees Each summer, I set off on an adventurous trip with good friends who are up for a challenge. Last year, we bikepacked through the Alps and this year we tackled the Pyrenees. Discover BIKEPACKING A combination of passing your physical limits and the poetic adventure of travel. A WIDE DEFINITION GRAVEL It can be all things to all riders. Like a flying-fish it spans worlds. It is a state of mind. A LOOSE DEFINITION AUDAX “We need audacity, and yet more audacity, and always audacity!" From the French revolution to traversing the globe by bike. THE ORIGINAL DEFINITION WANDERLUST ROADS TO DREAM OF From across the globe, these are the roads to ride for. Get some visual motivation. PATHS & PAVEWAYS VIEWS TO LAST A LIFETIME It's almost equally what you see from the road, not just what happens on the road that leaves an imprint on the memory. SIDE VIEWS

THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE : GETTING STARTED Sophie Gateau went from bikepacking ‘stagaire’ to an accomplished audaxer and North Cape 4000 finisher in a matter of months. She shares her thoughts on what it takes to get started in the world of adventure cycling. First... You Have To Try You have to put yourself out there, even if you might fail. That’s how we learn. My first experience of bikepacking didn’t go at all as planned. A group of us, all novices in bikepacking and biviouac decided to ride from Paris to Mont-Saint Michel, starting at 7pm in the evening just to heighten the challenge. After only 10 kilometers we were huddled together in a bus shelter, waiting for a downpour to pass. We eventually covered 100kms before picking a bivvy spot on the grass of a small village square. The night was horrendous. We learned that, even in August, the dew makes everything wet. Waking up after 30 minutes’ sleep with 300kms to reach the destination, our motivation failed and we rode to the nearest station to catch a train back to Paris. Practice makes perfect, doesn’t it? Building Your Distance There are no short distances in bikepacking. There are no limits either; but that’s another subject. To begin, all you should do is plan a trip over two days or more, with a reasonable mileage in relation to your own capabilities and fill your bags with enough to survive for the desired length of time. ‘Survive’ being a somewhat exaggerated term, meaning enough to eat, change your clothes (or not) and sleep during the trip. To increase the distances, it’s recommended to build up gradually to ensure you don’t hurt yourself. And for those who hesitate to take the plunge, a route that passes a few train stations will allow you to depart with some peace of mind. Planning Your Route Philippe Pollet-Villard said : « In a journey, it is not the destination that counts but always the roads traveled, and especially the detours ”. Unless you are in a race or performance logic, the best way to ride further and longer is to be blown away. The kilometers pass by themselves and time flies when the road is beautiful. Bad luck or bad preparation leads to head-down staring at the GPS when you find yourself on a big road full of traffic. To prepare a beautiful route, there is no secret, you have to devote time to it. I always use two different programmes to compare options and make choices. With practice, you can spot the small roads quite easily : if there are many corners, it’s a good sign! Think about passing through towns or villages, there is nothing like a coffee break, sandwich or other local specialities to rejuvenate you for the next part of the journey. Testing and Adjusting Your Equipment It seems obvious, but before leaving for several days on your own, it is necessary to have tested your equipment by riding on it, in it and with it. What could me more annoying than to notice along the way that your rain jacket is not as waterproof as you thought or that you really should have taken a headlamp when the dynamo powered light goes out while trying to fix a puncture in the dark and the patches don’t stick to this type of inner tubes. Riding safely is the most important thing. You have to be visible. Always take a back-up for front and rear lighting. We get cold faster when we are tired. Even in the middle of August, I take a down jacket in my luggage (see the introduction of this article for reference…) Just Do It In conclusion, I would say that we all learn from our mistakes. The days are getting longer and the temperature is rising again. Go for it, go on an adventure, and nevermind if it’s not perfect the first time. MORE FROM THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE

THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE : BIKE SET-UP As a Motion Designer, Simon Taulelle has an eye for detail and design. A good rider, therefore, to ask about bikepacking bike set-up. Picking A Frame So many options and not enough patience before you get out there, right? The most important thing to remember is that in bikepacking, you want to go far and if possible not so slowly. It’s all about balance and compromise. First, you have to choose a comfortable bike, i.e. an endurance or gravel bike, not a Tour de France racing machine. For the long hours that await you on the saddle, you will need a much less aggressive geometry. Your frame must be able to support all the saddlebags that you will attach to it. The more you can attach to the frame and the fork, the more chances you have of being able to mount a extra bottle cage or small bags. Finally, comfort also means wide tyres. Favour a frame with a lot of clearance so that you can fit the tyre size of your choice. Some also think about clearance and mounts for mudguards for when the weather turns bad. Wheels & Tyres As with the frame, it's about finding the right balance between performance, comfort and reliability. Forget high-profile aero wheels - those bikepacking bags will cancel any theoretical advantages they offer. Given the variety of terrain you'll be facing, you might as well count on the versatility of a well-built set of wheels that may also include a dynamo hub to power your lights. For a few years now, we have seen a return of the 650b, formerly reserved for the brevet or randonneur bikes. Smaller wheels mean you can fit larger tires to provide more comfort, especially if you intend to venture off the beaten path. Speaking of which, tyres are no minor matter. Again, wider and more durable are the recommended options for peace of mind against punctures. A tubeless setup (without inner tube) will offer you much better protection and you will also gain comfort and rolling resistance. Gearing It's faster to be slow! A loaded bike is a heavier bike. So you'll need a bigger ratio to make the climbs go smoothly. It's not a surprise that we find more and more mountain bike cassettes on bikepacking bikes. Whether you're on a single or double chainring, it's very important not to underestimate the terrain but above all the extra weight you're going to have to carry. In short, as the saying goes: "he who wants to go far, spares his mount and his knees". Saddle It is a world-renowned fact in cycling that there is only one saddle for each butt. With this in mind, the primary advice is to choose a saddle that you feel comfortable with. After that most important tip, the top of the range saddles tends to remove a lot of padding to save a few grams. So don't hesitate to go back down a little in the range to benefit from more comfortable padding. Also strongly consider "open" or “cut-out” saddles for as much pressure relief as possible. Lighting Today, there are two main types of illumination. The first solution is a dynamo hub. This is the best solution for riding through the night or on short winter days. Some lights even give you the possibility to charge your phone or GPS while riding. The weight penalty of a dynamo hub will be won back in peace of mind, knowing that you are recharging your batteries with the strength of your legs. Autonomy at its peak. The second solution is to use lamps that you will recharge via an external battery. This is less expensive than a wheel with a dynamo hub, but as payoff, you will have to be more disciplined in keeping them charged. A good solution is to have two sets of lights. Firstly as a backup in case one breaks, but also to alternate the use and loading times. While one light is charging, the other is lighting the road. Easy. Bikepacking Bags The major innovation of the last few years is undoubtedly the arrival of specific bikepacking bags. Waterproof or not, made to measure or not, reflective or in all colours, with or without racks, etc.. A seatpack, frame bag and handlebar bag are the three essentials that should be in your collection, ready for action whether it be a micro-adventure or full on transcontinental. All come in various shapes and sizes, but most important is to make sure they fit your frame and handlebars well. A badly fitted seatpack will wag like a dog’s tail and a handlebar bag too wide will be impossible to access quickly and may interfere with gear shifting. You should consider also how easy your bags allow access to their contents. It’s also a matter of packing but, for example, handlebar packs that have top opening access can be very useful on longer trips. Once you’ve got your three essential bags, many manufacturers offer smaller add-ons to increase capacity and flexibility throughout a big adventure and are also useful on your routine week rides. Brands we have used and recommend are Helmut Equipement, Cordel, Apidura, Restrap and Ortlieb. MORE FROM THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE

THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE : ROUTE PLANNING Route planning is the starting point that will make the adventure real, allow you to imagine the road ahead and begin to establish your route plan. How many kilometres per day, where to sleep, which will be the hardest sections, where to eat, and more. Matthieu Lifschitz takes us through his route planning considerations. Paper AND Digital Paper maps are definitely still current and very much enjoyed by bikepackers. The charm of a large unfolded map or even better, a relief map to help comprehend the elevation to be encountered, remains a good method to have a larger view of the route. Of course, today specific tools are available to plan and upload entire routes to your GPS. The best-known applications are Strava, Komoot, Open Runner and Ride With GPS. I use two of them : Komoot and Ride With GPS, and once the route has been established I check it with street view on Google Maps to see the reality of the terrain. Komoot is the most intuitive, the ease of plotting the route from point A to point B is incredible. There is a lot of information available on the different surfaces and types of roads, but nobody is perfect and Komoot sometimes automatically takes routes that are too rough. The counter-balance is Ride With GPS. Although less modern in its design and functionality, the varied background maps of this application and, conversely, its tendency to take you on big roads, will help you find the right balance according to the desired adventure. The Choice Of Road The choice of road depends on the objective. The smallest and the unpaved roads are mainly reserved for relaxed randonées, adventures where you have time to explore and space in your bags to take food and all the sleeping equipment you need. Taking big roads is dangerous, stressful, and will eventually tire you out faster than you might think. If a notion of performance comes into your adventure, there is a middle ground. The minor backroads of many countries are safe and still provide a good surface to maintain speed. Plus they cross towns where you can find the usual services : restaurants, grocery stores, small hotels that take last minute bookings, or shelters to set up your bivy : a bus stop, the forecourt of a church, or a school playground. Be aware that the fastest parcours is not necessarily the straightest. A detour of 30km is worth it if it means you avoid a high mountain pass or an extended gravel section. Food Stops No matter what meal, time of day, or state of hunger you might be in, it is necessary to anticipate well in advance. In France for example, in the most remote regions, most places only stay open for lunch between 1pm and 4pm. For breakfast it’s the same, don’t expect to find coffee and croissants every time you stop. Always be a little ahead by keeping a stock of food on the bike - some cereal bars or half of your last sandwich in a pocket has saved many bikepackers several times. A top tip has to be the bikepacker’s best ally - the petrol station. Long opening hours, fast service directly at the cash desk, refrigerators full of drinks and snacks, spare batteries for a headlamp, toilets, etc.. You’ll grow to love them. Sleep Stops If the adventure is wild and without time limits, ultralight tents will allow you to stop anywhere in the wilderness and enjoy the calm. If you are taking part in a challenge or a bikepacking race a bivy set-up as light and compact as possible is the solution. Remember, small roads = few shelters but guaranteed tranquility. Big roads = many possibilities but more exposure. On events ranging from 2000 to 4000km, some people choose to always sleep outside but most will plan for a hotel a couple of times throughout the event to help recovery, wash clothing, and generally rejuvenate themselves. Following The Route On The Road Once your route has been established, all you have to do is transfer it to your GPS. A whole host of more or less reliable solutions exist. The choices are very personal but experience suggests you should focus your choices on simplicity and robustness. Garmin and Wahoo lead the market and have a range of computers with different options of functionality. Rather than cutting your route into smaller segments, it is beneficial to have the full version on your computer in front of you. This allows you to manage your effort whilst having a permanent vision of what remains to be done to reach your target. Getting Lost Despite all the planning, checking, and double-checking, the strong likelihood is that you will still get lost. Don’t panic, finding a solution to each problem is part of the adventure. This is where smartphones are useful back-ups to GPS computers. Via the mobile apps, you can download your maps and access them even when you have no service – perfect when you find yourself looking for alternative roads and get-out-of-jail options. But try not to become 100% dependent on what’s on the screen. Lift your head, read the sign posts, the sky, the mountains. And if all your equipment breaks down, just go straight ahead, the adventure starts here…. MORE FROM THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE

THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE : WHAT TO PACK The balance of limited space and providing for all eventualities on the road is a difficult one. Simon Talulelle shares his essentials based on three types of bikepacking trip. Packing your bikepacking bags is, once again, a story of compromise and sacrifice that depends entirely on the type of trip you are going on. The global objective is to only carry what is truly essential for your adventure. In what is a wide-ranging discipline, we’ve identified three different types of trips, each one unique enough to influence your choice of equipment. Of course, these lists are an indicative starting point for you to adjust accordingly based on your individual needs taking into consideration such as the length of your trip, the terrain to be covered, etc. Top tip: for clothing we would always advise that you include as many merino items as possible. The fabric breaths, drys, and doesn’t hold bad smells, even after many days in the saddle.   THE CREDIT CARD SETUP If you intend to sleep in hostels or hotels, you can travel lighter. A minimum amount of bags wih a change of clothing for the evening and some over-night supplies should be enough. ‘For everything else, there’s Mastercard!’. ON THE BIKE Short sleeve jersey – Bibshorts – Long sleeve jersey – Wind Jacket – Rain Jacket – Neckwarmer – Gloves – Shoes – Socks – Helmet - Sunglasses OFF THE BIKE Toothbrush – Toothpaste – Soap – Towel – Shorts – Shirt – Bank Card – Passport - Cash DEVICES Telephone – Telephone Charger – GPS – GPS Charger – Lights – Power Bank TOOLS Multitool – Pump – CO2 Canisters – Spare Tube – Tubeless Puncture Repair Kit – Patch Kit – Anti-Puncture Tube Sealant – Tyre Plugs – Small Bottle Lubricant – Tyre Levers – Cloth – Rear Mech Hanger – Chain Links – Scotch Tape – Brake Pads FOOD Bars – Dried Fruit - Gels     THE AUDAX SETUP If you have the intention to line up for long-distance challenges, you need to make some provision for comfort. Here, a tent is optional – often a sleeping bag and a bivy bag will do the job. Pack what is necessary for riding and for surviving autonomously outdoors, both day and night. Top tip : for this type of adventure if you hesitate to pack something, you probably do not need it! Some people go further an apply the following logic : every item carried must have at least two uses. For example, a combination of primaloft jacket and primaloft trousers could replace your sleeping bag whilst also being normal wear when not riding. ON THE BIKE Short sleeve jersey – Bibshorts – Long sleeve jersey – Wind Jacket – Rain Jacket – - Rain Trousers - Neckwarmer – Gloves – Shoes – Socks – Shoe Covers - Helmet - Sunglasses OFF THE BIKE Toothbrush – Toothpaste – Soap – Towel – Shorts – T-Shirt – Musette - Bank Card – Passport – Cash – Sun Cream – Lip Balm - Ibuprofen BIVY KIT Sleeping Bag – Inflatable Mattress – Pillow – Bivy Bag - Wool Hat / Beanie DEVICES Telephone – Telephone Charger – GPS – GPS Charger – Lights – Power Bank - Headphones TOOLS Multitool – Pump – CO2 Canisters – Spare Tube – Tubeless Puncture Repair Kit – Patch Kit – Anti-Puncture Tube Sealant – Tyre Plugs – Small Bottle Lubricant – Tyre Levers – Cloth – Rear Mech Hanger – Chain Links – Scotch Tape – Brake Pads FOOD Bars – Dried Fruit – Gels – Caffeine Tablets   THE 'BED & BREAKFAST' SETUP Here are talking about complete autonomy. No time limits or competition. In this configuration, to carry what you need to sleep, eat, drink and dress yourself (sometimes for the cold), you need to utilise every square centimetre of your bike – the frame to the fork via the handlebars, the top tube and yes also….you’ll drink with joy from the tin mug attached to your saddlebag. Therefore it is pleasure and leisure that wins over speed, but be aware that by cleverly choosing good quality, space-saving equipment, you will travel comfortably and at a reasonable speed with all the fun and after-bike activity that you’ve provided for. Top tip : you will need a lot of water for both pedalling and cooking. Think about adding one or two extra bidons on your bike. ON THE BIKE Short sleeve jersey – Bibshorts – Long sleeve jersey – Wind Jacket – Rain Jacket – - Rain Trousers - Neckwarmer – Gloves – Shoes – Socks – Shoe Covers - Helmet - Sunglasses OFF THE BIKE Toothbrush – Toothpaste – Soap – Towel – Shorts – T-Shirt – Musette - Bank Card – Passport – Cash – Sun Cream – Lip Balm – Ibuprofen – Journal / Notebook BIVY KIT Tent – Tarpaulin – Sleeping Bag – Inflatable Mattress – Pillow – Bivy Bag – Wool Hat/Beanie – Warm Clothes – Sandals/Flip-flops – Lighter – Pocket knife DEVICES Telephone – Telephone Charger – GPS – GPS Charger – Lights – Power Bank – Camera – Portable Speaker TOOLS Multitool – Pump – CO2 Canisters – Spare Tube – Tubeless Puncture Repair Kit – Patch Kit – Anti-Puncture Tube Sealant – Tyre Plugs – Small Bottle Lubricant – Tyre Levers – Cloth – Rear Mech Hanger – Chain Links – Scotch Tape – Brake Pads FOOD Food purchased on the road - Freeze-dried Foodbags - Fruit - Bars - Dried Fruit - Coffee - Coffee Filter - Stove – Cooking Pot - Gas - Knife - Spork - Mug - Hipflask filled with you favorite liquor Now all you have to do is load all this equipment in your panniers..... When packing, keep in mind that things like a rain jacket or a neck warmer might be needed quickly during the ride. If you do not want to find yourself scattering the contents of your seat pack during a big downpour, be smart about the way you arrange the kit in your bag and keep what you could use on the bike at hand! MORE FROM THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE

LIFETIME VIEWS Adventures make memories. It’s not just the road in front but the incidentals, the details, and the life you find along the way. 

ROADS TO DREAM OF Bikepacking is about living for the road, and whilst all roads serve the purpose some stand above others. These are the roads that create more than just endorphins.  

WHAT IS BIKEPACKING? Long-term long-distance rider Manivelle.cc digs into the memories of all his cycling adventures to try and distill an answer to a rather wide-ranging question : what is bikepacking? A FORM OF MINIMALIST AUTONOMY Bikepacking is loading your bike with some luggage in order to carry the necessary equipment for a cycling adventure What fundamentally differentiates ‘bikepacking’ from ‘cycle touring’ is a kind of self-censorship, a voluntary restriction on the amount of stuff you carry in order to keep a sporting dimension to your setup. Despite this minimalist approach, the main objective is to be autonomous. Self-supported. To be independent and choose when and where to ride without worrying about the time or the place. As much as possible, to be able to meet your needs in day time and night time; to wrap yourself up or to peel off the layers depending on the weather, to set up a camp for the night with simple bivy or pitch an ultralight tent. THE ART OF GETTING THERE The destination only becomes a pretext, an exotic point that will mark the end. Everything that happens in bikepacking is in the adventure that will link your departure to the final destination. The goal is far less important than the art of getting there. Leaving for a day or a week, we equip ourselves to feel free on the road, detached from obligations and from time. To be in real freedom of movement. Learning to create a route, a path towards the unknown, is in fact trying to get to know yourself. Having the freedom to try a detour by this or that high mountain pass, deciding the pace you like, knowing how to push on when it is necessary and save energy when it is not, without any constraints other than those that you have fixed on yourself. In almost all cases, the common point with a personal adventure will be the freedom to create your own route and to apply all the solutions that you will have found during your own experiences eventually for the benefit of a more sporting challenge. It can be a formal event or a self-made objective. Either way it is one which combines the passing of your physical limits and the poetic adventure of travel. MORE FROM THE BIKEPACKING GUIDE

SUR LA TERRASSE "In spite of ourselves We’ll end up a’sittin’ on a rainbow." John Prine In normal circumstances, Ali is a lone rider. Ironically, confinement and the Elevation Coaching group Zwift rides have him racing cyclists from Israel and joining old club mates for the first time in six years. Workout #4 is a fasted pre-breakfast session to help manage weight, because working from home and being close to the kitchen supplies can crack the strongest of wills. Include this session once a week in spite of your chocolate-eating self. Download the relevant workout file below : .PDF.FIT (heart rate).FIT (power).ZWO.ERG THE FUTURE WILL BE LONG NORTH CAPE 4000 We’re all longing for long-distance cycling right now. Sophie Gateau’s account of last year’s North Cape 4000 is a tease. TO THE END OF EUROPE 40’s CX IN PARIS The streets of Montmartre might be empty now, but for a few days in the late 40’s they were taken over by cycling’s finest for urban cyclocross. This video is worth watching. CROSS LIKE NEVER SINCE SUNNIES STYLED Framed with vision in collaboration with Article One, our lunettes are hand made in Italy, built for the road and designed for every occasion. SUNGLASSES CAP IT OFF Cycling caps for every taste from poker style, light lightweights, the animal series and those badged for our famous cols. CASQUETTES

BALCONY VIEWS "In a word: PERSIST." Austin Madison In-house photographer, Morgane, is outside but within the confines. This is balcony life with her Wahoo Kickr. If you'd invested in a smart trainer you are probably getting good value for your money right now. Each of the workouts from experts Elevation Coaching is downloadable in Zwift and ERG formats so that you can upload them and let the trainer guide you through it. Workout #3 is a bit harder than the previous two, switching between just under to just over aerobic threshold. Stick with it, persistence pays. Download the relevant workout file below : .PDF.FIT (heart rate).FIT (power).ZWO.ERG AS SOON AS WE CAN CLIMBING COLS & DROPPING LINES To fish is to be in nature, to stay in nature and to try to understand nature. Riding to the river for the love of the outdoors. ANOTHER REASON TO RIDE Cycling In Kodachrome When Hinault was Le Patron and headbands were still in fashion. The 1982 Tour de France captured on glorious colour film by Magnum photographer Harry Gruyaert. The Peloton In Colour SLEEVELESS WONDERS Almost as important as a spare tube, a lightweight packable gilet keeps your core protected when the sun is low or the wind blows a chill. WOMEN'S GILETS BODY HEAT For warm-ups, cool downs, chill(y) rides and big descents. Cut the wind out and keep the heat in with a gilet from the collection. MEN'S GILETS

INSIDE LOOKING OUT "May we all get better together" Charles Bukowski This is our co-founder, Rémi's simple indoor set-up. No Zwift, no sensors, just a view over Nice Port and the motivation to get back out there. If you haven't done it for a while, the home trainer takes a bit of getting used to again. What is for sure is that straight blocks of the same thing become monotonous very quickly. So here is Café du Cycliste x Elevation Coaching Workout #2 to keep you entertained. Download the relevant workout file below : .PDF.FIT (heart rate).FIT (power).ZWO.ERG STAY INSPIRED ZINZINS The festival of craziness on the Col de Turini. Three sides, three climbs, one mountain and a heap of fun. Here's to the next one. THREE TIMES TURINI BREAKING AWAY Regularly cited as one the best mainstream movies with a cycling theme, Breaking Away is about optimism, realism and riding. Perfect viewing then. FEEL GOOD FILM ESSENTIAL SHORTS Sitting comfortably and looking after your legs are fundamentals of our sport. So the correct bib shorts are essential. WOMEN'S BIB SHORTS SHORT ESSENTIALS Detailed design from the shape and density of the chamois, the placement of stitching, the number of panels, the grippers and the mesh on the bibs. French style, global quality. MEN'S BIB SHORTS