What you need to know about biking in the desert

What you need to know about biking in the desert

Desert cycling is not just a desert sport but a way of thinking. It is a way to reach yourself, listing to the squeak of your chiansaws will help you to listen to your inner voice. Such exercise will help you know that the most difficult step in the longest and hardest ways is the first step. Biking through these regions is immensely rewarding, but also carries a specific set of caveats and hazards.

Understanding what to expect when traversing the desert landscape is a good first step in ensuring your trek is a successful one. By planning ahead and packing the right equipment, you can reduce any risk of peril and enjoy the breathtaking scenery

Type of Bike:

At first we started desert cycling tours using mountain bikes which was a bit difficult to ride in the sand dunes. Then switched to Fatbikes which is a sort of off-road bike with oversized tires and makes the cycling experience an easy and smooth one.

There can be a tremendous amount of diversity in a desert ecosystem, and you may encounter loose sand or stones alongside slick mud or even frost. It's important to do a bit of research and try to learn more about the specific area you plan to explore to better understand what challenges exist.

All the same, bringing along the right tires can help you prepare for your desert bike ride.  For example, offer peace of mind when riding even on serious off-road conditions.

A flat tire in the middle of the desert could represent a serious problem, so having the means to remedy such an issue is also key.

Fitting your bike with lights and a water bottle cage is also a good idea when biking in the desert. Be sure to bring along a first aid kit and a pack full of other helpful survival items, especially when exploring more remote areas

Clothing while cycling

It's important to protect yourself from dehydration and sun exposure while in the desert. The strong sun can quickly become a health hazard, but sunscreen, water and long sleeves can keep your body protected from otherwise hazardous UV rays. Sleeveless shirts and other items may seem like a better option, but in reality, these not only increase your sun exposure, but increase the rate at which you lose fluids.

Although the desert is well-known for its parched earth and exhausting heat, the early morning and evenings can quickly become quite chilly. For extended trips especially, having layered clothing is essential.

Equipment:

Because the desert heat is so dry, you can become dehydrated more quickly than in other climates. For that reason, be sure to stop and drink water frequently. Find shade and rest if you have a headache or feel faint, as this can be a sign of heat exhaustion. Even if the daily forecast isn't especially imposing, it is essential to be mindful and to avoid over-extending yourself. By the same token, sweating heavily in the later part of the day can present a different problem, because dropping temperatures and wet clothing can quickly lead to illness or even hypothermia.

Aside from the climate, the desert landscape can present a number of challenges and hazards. You should always bring a good first aid kit whenever traveling in the wilderness, but between dozens of thorny plants, rocky outcrops and sandy conditions that could quickly lead to an infection, it is wise to have adequate supplies close at hand.

Suitable deserts of Iran are suitable for desert cycling tours

As you know there are several deserts in Iran such as “Lut”, “Maranjab”, “Varzaneh”,…..each has their own beauties and it is possible to run Iran desert cycling tours in those deserts but I, for one, prefer to run the tour in “Varzaneh” as it is close to Isfahan and –for many tourists- it’s on the way from north to south. The weather is also pleasant there in autumn and winter.

 Explore the Iran desert in a unique way on an exciting cycling tour. Relax knowing that all of the cycle routes will be adjusted according to your fitness standards.

You will explore a number of highlighted routes per day with a support vehicle following and most of the cycling will be done on smooth gravel roads