In The Bike Race

I remember the first time I found myself in the bike race — not on a track. In the cobblestone streets of Ghent, Belgium, where cyclists and tourists alike jostled for position on narrow lanes. I had joined a local cycling tour, and within minutes, I was weaving between trams, dodging pedestrians, and trying to keep up with the group. It was chaotic. In the best way possible — a real, unfiltered taste of what it means to be in the bike race, not just as a participant, but as a traveler who wants to see a city from the seat of a bicycle.^[1]

In the bike race, you’re not just moving from point A to point B — you’re handling the rhythm of the city, feeling the pulse of its streets. Experiencing its culture through the lens of motion. I’ve cycled through Prague, Amsterdam, and Lisbon, and each time, the experience was different, but the thrill of being in the bike race was the same. It’s not about speed or competition, but about being present, fully immersed in the place you’re visiting.

What I’ve learned is that being in the bike race is more than just a way to see a city — it’s a lens through which to understand it. When you ride, you notice details you’d miss in a car: the smell of pastries from a corner bakery, the sound of a street musician, the way the sunlight catches the spires of a cathedral. These are the kinds of memories that stay with you long after the ride is over. That’s why I write about it — to help others find their own version of being in the bike race.

Why Being in the Bike Race Feels Like a Cultural Immersion

As of September 2026, when you’re on a bike, you’re not just passing through a place — you’re interacting with it. I’ve noticed that in cities like Amsterdam, where cycling is a way of life, the streets are designed with cyclists in mind. There are bike lanes, dedicated traffic signals, and even bike-specific parking spots. This makes riding not just easier, but more respectful of the local way of life.

In Lisbon, for example, the hills can be a challenge, but they also offer panoramic views that are worth the climb. I remember one afternoon, after a long ride up to Miradouro de Santa Catarina, I sat on a bench overlooking the city and realized how different it felt to be there than if I had arrived by taxi or bus. It was like the city was mine, and I was part of its rhythm.

Being in the bike race allows you to see how locals move through their environment. You notice the way they carry groceries, where they stop for coffee, and how they handle the city’s layout. This kind of immersion is hard to replicate by any other means.

Part of our Bike tour guide.

The Physical and Mental Benefits of Being in the Bike Race

I’ve always been a fan of walking tours, but I realized that cycling gives a different kind of workout. In my experience, cycling through a city like Prague, where the streets are a mix of cobblestone and flat pavement, offers a moderate to intense workout that can burn up to 600 calories per hour — a number I’ve tracked using a fitness watch.

Beyond the physical benefits, cycling also gives you mental clarity. I’ve noticed that on days when I ride, I feel more alert and energized. It’s like the city itself becomes a part of your workout, pushing you to keep going, to keep exploring.

I once cycled through the outskirts of Budapest, following a river path that wound through the city. The combination of the scenery and the physical exertion left me feeling more connected than I had in years. It was a reminder that being in the bike race is not just about the destination — it’s about the journey.

Cycling through a city gives you more than a view — it gives you a workout and a new way of thinking.

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How to Choose the Right Bike for Your Trip

Not all bikes are created equal, and the right choice depends on the terrain and the city you’re visiting. For example, in cities with lots of hills, like San Francisco or Lisbon, a bike with a higher gear ratio and a comfortable saddle is essential. I’ve found that a hybrid bike, which is a mix of a mountain and a road bike, is ideal for most city tours.

When I cycled through Amsterdam, I used a lightweight road bike that made it easy to weave through the bike lanes and handle the busy streets. I also made sure to carry a small repair kit, including a spare tube and a portable pump — something that can make all the difference if you get a flat.

I’ve also learned that the right tires can make a huge difference. In cities with rougher roads, like Prague, I always opt for tires with a slightly deeper tread to provide better grip and protect against punctures.

“I remember the first time I found myself in the bike race — not on a track, but in the cobblestone streets of Ghent, Belgium…”— Urban Cycling Tours editors

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The Best Cities to Be in the Bike Race

Amsterdam is often considered the gold standard for cycling cities. With over 400 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes, it’s a place where cyclists are king. I’ve cycled through the city in the early morning when the streets are quiet, and it was a surreal experience — like being in a city that was designed for people rather than cars.^[2]

Prague is another great city for cycling, even though it’s not as bike-friendly as Amsterdam. The cobblestone streets and steep hills can be a challenge, but the rewards are worth it. The city’s historic buildings and hidden alleys offer a unique perspective that you wouldn’t get from a car or train.

In Lisbon, I found that the best way to see the city is by bike. The hills can be tough, but the views from the top of the city are worth the climb. Plus, cycling through the neighborhoods gives you a chance to see the city in a way that’s more personal and immersive.

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How to Stay Safe While Being in the Bike Race

I’ve learned that the key to staying safe is to be visible and predictable. Wearing a bright jacket or reflective gear can make a huge difference, especially in cities where cyclists are not always given priority. I’ve also found that using a bell on your bike can help alert pedestrians and other cyclists of your presence.

Another tip is to follow local cycling laws and rules. In some cities, like Prague, there are specific rules about where cyclists can ride and how they should behave at intersections. I once had an experience where I was stopped by a local cyclist who was frustrated with how I had navigated a roundabout. It was a humbling but educational moment.

I’ve also found that planning your route in advance, using apps like Google Maps or Strava, helps you avoid busy roads and high-traffic areas. This not only keeps you safer but also helps you enjoy the city more.

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The Social Benefits of Being in the Bike Race

I’ve found that cyclists often share a sense of camaraderie. In cities like Amsterdam, I’ve seen groups of locals and tourists riding together, chatting and laughing. It’s a friendly, shared experience that makes the journey more enjoyable.

One of the most memorable moments I had was in Lisbon, where I struck up a conversation with a local cyclist who was also on a tour. He showed me some of the best spots in the city, and we ended up sharing a coffee at a local café. It was a connection I wouldn’t have made had I been in a car.

I’ve also noticed that cyclists tend to be more open to conversation. Whether it’s a fellow tourist or a local, there’s a sense of mutual respect and shared purpose in being in the bike race. This makes the experience more social and engaging.

Cycling through a city connects you to both the place and the people who live there.

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The Role of Technology in Being in the Bike Race

GPS devices and smartphone apps have made it easier than ever to navigate cities by bike. I’ve used apps like Google Maps and Citymapper to find the best routes, avoid traffic, and plan my stops. These tools can also help you track your progress and see how far you’ve traveled.

Fitness trackers are another useful tool. I’ve used a watch to track my heart rate, distance, and calories burned during my rides. It’s a great way to stay motivated and push yourself to go further.

I’ve also found that some cities offer cycling apps that are tailored to their specific needs. In Amsterdam, for example, there are apps that show you the most bike-friendly routes and even help you avoid areas with heavy traffic. These tools can make your experience more efficient and enjoyable.

In The Bike Race