\'...the definitive guide to how, where, why and what to do on a cycle expedition...\' Adventure Travel Magazine (UK) Every cyclist dreams of making the Big Trip, the Grand Cycle Tour abroad. Whether that\'s a two-week trip or a year-long journey, the Adventure Cycle-Touring Handbook is the comprehensive manual that will make that dream a reality. Riding across Asia, cycling in Africa or pedaling from Patagonia to Alaska, whether you\'re planning your own Big Trip or just enjoy reading about other people\'s adventures, the Handbook is guaranteed to illuminate, entertain and above all, inspire. This fully revised 3rd edition includes: PART 1 - Practical information *How to prepare for a long-distance trip*What to look for in a new bike with reviews of some of the world\'s best touring- and trekking-bikes*Adapting a standard bike for the Big Ride*Choosing components, equipment for the road and reviews of camping gear*Health precautions, inoculations, visas, money and safety PART 2 - Worldwide route outlines Across Europe, Asia, Australasia, North and South America and Africa; recommended routes within countries and overland. Everything from popular routes eg India\'s Leh-Manali Highway to lesser-known cycle-touring areas such as Mongolia. PART 3 - Tales from the Saddle Ten first-hand accounts of spoke-bending biking adventures worldwide. Introduction Why are so many people going bike touring these days? A minority pastime during the heyday of the car, cycling has once again become a popular choice for travellingespecially for long overseas trips. The first cycle-touring craze began in the 1870s. Then, as now, the bicycle offered a revolutionary way of touring: you go exactly where you want, when you want, and all under your own steam. This was before the age of the car and walking or riding a horse were the only other options until the bicycle. In 1885 the Rover Safety Bicycle came along, and for all the innovation since then, most modern touring bicycles would be reco ...