Back to Cycling
Safety on the road is a prime concern. Thailand is not the west. Very little respect is given to cyclists.
Cars often overtake using the shoulder of the roadway. Watch behind as well as in front.
Rentals Be careful when renting bicycles. There are many substandard bicycles in Thailand.
Check the tires, brakes, chain, pedals and derailers carefully. Inspect the frame for cracks. If a bike has problems, find another rental shop.
You will probably be financially responsible for breakage, damage or loss. Use a chain and lock to prevent theft ... especially hi-end bikes.
Tours Long rides without a support vehicle are risky. You are 20 km away from town on a mountain and a chain breaks. Maybe the guide can't fix it. What will you do?
Ask about the type and condition of bicycles used on the ride. Inspect the equipment yourself. If reserving in advance, get the information by e mail. Ask about pedal types.
Longer multi day rides with inexperienced riders along can frustrate an experienced cyclist ... it can ruin a trip.
If the tour operator didn't ask about your level of conditioning he probably didn't ask anyone. A support van mitigates some of the uncertainty.
Be sure you know about the level of accommodations and the types of meals are available. Cycling burns calories fast. If you don't get enough you will "bonk". Be sure you know who provides what.
National Parks in Thailand can be wonderful ... but they can also be dangerous. Give wild animals plenty of room.