Cycling levels and safety

For each of our holidays you should at least have the basic skills of cycling. Also an average physical condition is required.

The most important basic cycling skills

Being able to ride in a straight line under varying conditions is the key to riding safely in traffic.
Practice stopping as quickly as you can to get a feel for how much distance is needed at different speeds and under different conditions. This one is very important when you are cycling in a group.
Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings. Know what is behind you and watch out for what is in front of you.
Always make hand signals well in advance of any turn.

Cycling levels

Below are the five levels we use to indicate the difficulty of our trips to prevent any future surprises. Are you unsure about the level that is right for you? Our professional sales department will help you find your way.
Most cycling holidays we offer are cycling level 1 or 2. These holidays are appropriate for anyone with average physical condition and basic cycling skills (see above).

The length of the stage, the altitude and climate determine the level of your trip. On a hotel-based tour you can choose whether you are going to cycle each day or not. On a round tour the cycle days are fixed. That also is a factor to keep in mind.

(1 km = 0.62 miles)

Cycling level 1
- Distance: 35-50 km average per day
- Altitude: 0-100 hm average per day
The lightest cycling holiday; over mostly flat terrain, with not too long daily distances (average 50 km). Short steep slopes with height differences of up to ± 100 meters occur.
Cycling level 2
- Distance: 40-60 km average per day
- Altitude: 100-500 hm average per day
Not too steep and not too long slopes on not very difficult terrain. The daily distances are sometimes a bit longer, up to approx. 60 km per day
Cycling level 3
- Distance: 45 - 75 km average per day
- Altitude meters: 500 - 800 altitude meters per day on average
Now and then longer and steeper slopes without being predominant. Short stages can include more climbing.
Cycling level 4
- Distance: 50 - 85 km average per day
- Altimeters: 800 - 1200 altitude meters average per day
Tours with a sporty character. The slopes are steeper and longer than those of the previous categories and therefore require more power. The landscape has a mountainous character. Suitable for anyone who regularly cycles longer distances.
Cycling level 5
- Distance: 60 - 95 km on average per day
- Altimeters: 1000 - 1500 altitude meters average per day
Cycling in a spicy hilly landscape or even mountains with often a longer distance. Day distances vary from 70 to 100 km. Good physical condition and some stamina are required. 90% opt for a racing bike.

Cycling levels and safety