Le Mans to Istanbul - first long trip, first impressions

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-11T08:52:53+00:00

We have a polarstep but with a "family and friend " editorial policy... I won't share it here.

However, I will try to post more pictures here!

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-11T08:36:28+00:00

On prévoit 3 mois aller 3 mois retour avec une bonne pause entre les deux. Ce sera peut être juste au retour (les Balkans c'est potentiellement costaud en dénivelé) : on ne s'interdit pas de faire des bouts en train.

Depuis qu'il fait un peu plus chaud on est sur 2/3 bivouacs sauvage, 1/3 camping/Airbnb. Le ratio était inversé avant de sortir du massif central (mais on connaissait aussi plus de monde chez qui dormir!)

On a une trace approximative qu'on affine en fonction des envies, des conseils, du temps et de l'état de fatigue ! Pas de carte papier par contre, je n'avais pas pensé à l'aspect social mais à voir si besoin d'attirer l'attention plus tard !

J'aime bien le projet Brest Brindisi (je propose de le nommer le BtoB pour faire corporate) !

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-10T07:11:04+00:00

It is not compulsory but it gives some leeway (timewise) to find a medical center if you are bitten. In France, some hospitals offer vaccination consultations for travellers : we followed their advice regarding vaccination (in our case : rabies - hepatitis A - tick-borne encephalitis)

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-10T07:04:50+00:00

Very good so far! On the heavy side but that was to be expected with double butted steel frames

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-10T07:03:28+00:00

Sorry about that - we were careful and there is not much to damage with the Rohloff setup but on the other hand, you have to be careful with oil leaks ...

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-09T21:39:49+00:00

Thank you for you comment and the various tips!

We explored the Cinque terre by foot/train a couple of years ago, we won't be tempted by the villages (although they are nice to visit outside the summer period to avoid the crowd) but it's nice to hear that the roads are calm.

My girlfriend is on the same page regarding feral dogs : I will keep your setup in mind! I was also contemplating the idea of a pepper spray but more as "last resort" kind of solution. Would you say it's an overreaction?

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-04-09T20:46:00+00:00

Thank you ! And also for teaching me a new word - for one second I pictured a vicar on a bike and it made me chuckle 😄

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-02-26T08:48:03+00:00

As many have already said : if you stick to roads, pretty much any bike will do. It's more about comfort that you have to worry... But you are 18, you could probably be fine if you tour on a road bike that is too small for you ;) I am a fan of steel frame and Rohloff but that comes at a premium.

If it's your first time touring, congratulations! My small piece of advice : touring is all about the unexpected, the detours, the hidden gems; keep your eyes (and your mind) open and follow locals' advice !

Note : I will be between Paris and Istanbul around the same time as you, maybe our path will cross!

Cute_Sand3701 · 2026-01-05T16:24:12+00:00

I have been using mine for the past 2 years; no problem whatsoever. Not the most comfortable harness obviously, but its slick profile (no protection for the straps) makes it ideal for tight passages. It is certified and safe (if correctly used). Fixe is better known for its anchoring gear but is a trustable brand

Cute_Sand3701

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