Bike tourism is a growing trend for travelers looking for adventure. Not to forget that it is an environmentally friendly way to explore new countries. It is an activity that allows travelers to explore a country more discreetly, as they can take their time to explore the sights and sounds of the area. Bike tourism is also a great way to stay in shape while on vacation and can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages.
The benefits of bike tourism are numerous. It allows travelers to explore a country more actively rather than just sitting in a car or train. The scenery can be enjoyed leisurely, and travelers can stop at any point to take pictures or chat with locals. Bike touring also helps reduce the environmental impact of travel, as bikes are more energy efficient than cars or buses.
In addition to being an eco-friendly way to explore a new country, bike tourism has many other advantages. It allows travelers to make new friends and easily interact with other cyclists in the area. It also allows them to get off the beaten path and explore hidden gems that would otherwise be inaccessible. Finally, bike touring is often much cheaper than traditional forms of travel as travelers can avoid the costs associated with transportation.
Below are 2 dominant points to take into consideration if you’ve got bike touring in the Caucasus on your mind:
1) Find A Suitable Touring Bike
When looking for a suitable touring bike, it is a bonus to consider the type of terrain and climate you plan to ride in. As well as your personal preferences and needs.
The first step when looking for a touring bike is to decide what type of terrain you plan to ride on. Touring bikes are designed to handle a variety of terrain. From pavement to gravel, but some may be better suited for certain types of terrain than others. For example, a road bike may be better for riding on pavement, while a mountain bike may be better for riding on gravel or dirt trails. Knowing the type of terrain you plan to ride on can help you narrow down your choices.
In this case, the Caucasus region stretches between the Black and Caspian Seas in the southern part of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is home to various terrains and climates, making it one of the most geographically diverse regions in the world.
According to Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Statistics, more than 2.4 million tourists visited Azerbaijan between January and September 2019. In Georgia, the number of tourists in 2019 reached 7,725,600, up from 5,256,000 in 2015. A regional study on community-based tourism in the Caucasus estimates that 700,000 to 800,000 tourists visited the region before the collapse. A data collection survey on tourism development in the South Caucasus was conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency in 2017. Georgia plans to host 11 million visitors by 2025, with annual revenues reaching US$6.6 billion.
The terrain of the Caucasus varies, ranging from high mountains and deep valleys to wide plains and lush forests. Like the deciduous forests of the Caucasus Mountains, the coniferous forests of the northern Caucasus. The steppes of the eastern Caucasus, The terrain of the Caucasus, also includes a large number of lakes and rivers. The region also has several large deserts, including the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan and the Dasht-e Kavir in Iran. The region also has a rich variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, lynxes, and several species of wild cats.
The terrain of the Caucasus is also characterized by its extreme climate and weather patterns. The mountains provide a barrier to the cold Arctic air that comes in from the north, making the summers warmer and the winters colder than in other parts of Europe. In addition, the region is known for its strong winds, heavy snowfall, and occasional earthquakes.
So, once you’ve determined the terrain you’ll be riding on, you should consider the climate you plan to ride in. Touring bikes come in various materials, from aluminum to carbon fiber, and each material offers different benefits. For example, aluminum is lightweight and durable, while carbon fiber is lightweight and more expensive. Knowing the climate you plan to ride in can help you decide which material is right for you.
You shouldn’t forget to consider your personal preferences and needs when looking for a touring bike. This includes things like the frame size, seat height, handlebar shape, and gearing. Knowing what you want and need in a bike can help you decide which one is right for you.
2) Find a Bike Route
The Caucasus region is known for its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and rugged terrain, making it a perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts. The region is home to some of the most popular mountain biking routes in the world, offering challenging trails, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities to explore the area.
The most popular biking routes in the Caucasus include the Georgian Military Road, the Georgian-Armenian Highway, and the Great Silk Road. The Georgian Military Road is one of the most scenic and challenging routes in the region, passing through the breathtaking mountains and rugged terrain of the Great Caucasus Range. The Georgian-Armenian Highway is a popular route for cyclists looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Armenia, while the Great Silk Road is a legendary route that passes through Central Asia and the Middle East.
Each of these routes offers something unique and different, allowing cyclists to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the region and experience the culture, history, and traditions of the locals. The Georgian Military Road is an ideal route for experienced cyclists looking for an adventurous and challenging ride, while the Great Silk Road is a great option for those looking for a more leisurely and rewarding journey.
Whatever route you choose, the Caucasus region is full of stunning views and challenging terrain, making it an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. So grab your bike and hit the road – the Caucasus awaits!