Cycling Holidays
We have been running our cycling weeks for over 8 summers now and we love hosting cyclists of all abilities and experience to show them around some of the best cycling the Alps has to offer. Whether you are new to road cycling or a seasoned verteran we have something to suit you.
In order to get the most out of your holiday, we have this little guide to make sure you are all set for your week in the French Alps.
Support on the Road.
While we are out on our rides, we want to make you feel as supported as possible. So we will always have at least two points of contact on the road, our lead rider and a support vehicle following you along.
Our support vehicle provides back-up on all our cycle routes and will hand out spare bottles, home made flap jacks, extra layers while also giving you encourage of course. Our support vehicle also has spare wheels and a full tool kit in case you have any problems along the way.
Our lead rider is there to take you to the climb and make sure that everyone is happy and nobody takes a wrong turn. We may set some groups off at different times so that everyone gets to a picnic stop, mountain pass or cafe at a similar time but each group will always be with a member of our team.
How to train for a week in the Alps.
One of the things we’re regularly asked is how to train for a week in the French Alps. So we asked our own Level 3 Performance Coach, Chris for his tips.
“Whether you’re coming out for a week riding up the Big Cols, training for a Triathlon or getting the best out of the Alps with a mix of great wine, local cheese & picturesque cafes on sunny days riding, if you train a little it’ll be a lot easier.
Here’s a couple of tips to get you practising before you come out to the mountains. These should help you climb more efficiently, descend with confidence and corner like a pro.
Climbing – conserving energy on a climb
Change into a gear that will allow you to spin your legs at a comfortable cadence (80rpm+)
During long climbs stay seated and try to get into a comfortable rhythm
Maintain a stable and still upper body, resting on and not gripping the tops of the handlebars
Descending
The key to descending well is more about control and observation than speed. Since everything is passing that much quicker compared to riding on the flat, noting what is around and identifying any potential hazards is essential. Good observation removes surprises and aids line selection, which will help you remain relaxed and keep the bike under control.
Take a firm but relaxed hold on the drops of the handlebars
Keep your head up, looking as far down the road as possible
Move body weight further back in the saddle
Cornering
The fastest way around a corner is to draw a straight line across it - start wide, ‘kiss the apex’ and finish wide
Corner on the drop handlebars to lower your centre of gravity and give you more control of the brakes
As you enter the corner your inside pedal should be up with all your weight in your outside pedal. Putting weight in your outside pedal pushes your tyres into the ground and give you more grip. The faster you corner, the more weight you should put in your outside leg. For example think about putting 80% of your weight through your outside leg, 10% on your saddle and 10% on your handlebars
Minimise weight on your handlebars by engaging your core.
Feel free to get in touch with Chris at Pedal Performance Coaching if you have any questions or would like to know more about tailored training plans for you.
Cycling Insurance.
Before coming out to the French Alps with your bike we recommend all our guests are insured.
We have teamed up with Yellow Jersey who provide our guests with a 10% discount on their prices.
Yellow Jersey’s travel insurance covers you for all types of cycling, both leisure and racing. Cover includes medical expenses, repatriation, public liability and even free winter sports cover on annual policies so you can visit us for your ski holidays, too!
You should also make sure your bike is as well protected as you are. Cover your bike for crash and accidental damage, theft and cover with the airline with bicycle insurance from Yellow Jersey, along with many other features. Policies available as short term or annual, and can be for your own bike or a bike you rent out here.
Other things we advise for you cycling holiday with us :
European Health Card – We hope you won’t need to use this but it would come in very handy if you do. You can get one here: www.ehic.org.uk
Road bike – Probably best to leave your TT bike/Tri bars at home as we’ll be riding in groups
Extra layers for chilly summits – it’s often cooler at the top of climbs
Energy gels and bars - We provide some flapjacks to complement these but the extra fuel from these are important as the rides can be very demanding in the alps
If you’re hiring a bike, its best to bring your shoes, pedals and preferred saddle
Get in touch with us to find out more about a week with us in the mountains.
