So, you’ve signed up for a supported long-distance cycle tour, maybe even your bucket list coast-to-coast ride. Now you’re wondering: How do I prepare? What do I bring?
What is a Supported Bicycle Tour?
Unlike solo touring or bike packing, where you carry all your gear and maybe camp along the way, a supported tour means the tour company plans the route, transports your luggage, provides route support on riding days and secures accommodations each night.
That means you ride unencumbered, free to enjoy the pure bliss of cycling and to fully experience the day.
That doesn’t mean, however, that you don’t need to prepare.
Choose the Right Bike
Your tour company will provide preparation assistance with what to bring, so let’s focus on the most critical piece of equipment: the bike.
Choose a bike that is most comfortable for you. It could be a road bike, touring bike, gravel bike, or maybe a mountain bike. Remember there could be multiple century days on a tour, and the extra weight of the bike adds up over the miles. On the flip side, a lightweight aero position road bike may not be ideal for you for those long days in the saddle.
Whatever you ride on your training rides, is probably what you should ride on tour. Your training experience will tell you what will work best for you over long distances. (You have been training, right?)
Bike Preparation Checklist – Before the Tour
Once you’ve decided on the bike, make sure it is in top condition—without being brand new. That means replacing wear-prone components ahead of time:
Bearings, cables, chain, cassette, and chainrings should be new.
Tires should be durable and flat-resistant. Avoid thin, lightweight racing tires.
Pre-filled sealant tubes are fine, but avoid heavy-duty thick tubes and liners, as they can be problematic.
Unless you’re an experienced mechanic, take your bike to your local bike shop at least a month before your trip. Insist on replacing those components.
And don’t forget fresh, cushy bar tape. It’ll enhance comfort and make your bike look great—avoid light colors, as they get dirty quickly and will look pretty crusty by the end of a long tour.
Saddle and Accessories
Saddle: Your saddle should be well-worn and broken in. It should feel like an old friend—not like an annoying relative you want to throw in the Atlantic Ocean when you get there.
Storage: A phone holder, small handlebar bag, or top tube bag is handy for easy access to your phone, whether for navigation, photos, or calling the support van.
Hydration: Bring two durable water bottle cages and large-capacity bottles.
Matching spare tire
4 spare spokes (your bike can have 4 different sizes)
Seat Bag with:
2 tubes
Patch kit
Multi-tool
CO2 inflator or mini pump
Derailleur hanger specific to your bike
Zip ties, duct tape, dollar bill for temporary fixes on the road
Most tour companies provide floor pumps for you to top off your tires every morning (yes, every morning!).
During the Tour
Before leaving the hotel each day do an "ABC Quick Check" -- a simple pre-ride checklist to ensure your bike is road-ready every day.
A – Air: Check tire pressure and inspect for cuts or embedded debris.
B – Brakes: Ensure pads are fresh and brakes feel firm. (Wet descents can wear out pads fast!)
C – Chain, Cassette, Chainrings: Lube the chain and ensure your drivetrain is clean and shifting smoothly.
Quick Check: Make sure quick releases or thru-axles are tight on wheels and check the seat post collar.
What Not to Bring on Tour
Leave your racks, panniers, and large bags at home. On a supported tour, the company carries the heavy gear. While your luggage will be packed away in the luggage vehicle, there should be a bin with quick access in the support vehicle to items like jackets or rain gear.
Final Thoughts
A supported long-distance tour is an incredible way to experience pure cycling, free from heavy loads and logistical worries. But a well-prepped bike ensures you enjoy every mile without mechanical headaches. Following these tips will prepare you for an unforgettable ride...
Cheers!
Gerard Boisse
Crazy Bear Bikes
La Verne, California
909.654.6684
Gerard is an experienced tour leader and bike mechanic. He has led cross country and other multi-day road tours. He is co-owner of “Crazy Bear Bikes” in La Verne, California and preparing for the 2025 touring season.
See available CBB tours at -- https://www.crazybearbikes.com/upcoming-events
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