bīk tōr
noun
A bicycle trip that usually takes several days or more
Example usage: We are going on a bike tour around Europe this summer.
Most used in: Europe, North America, and Australia.
Most used by: Recreational and long-distance cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Gran Fondo, Randonnée, Brevet, Audax,
What is a Bike Tour?
A bike tour is a form of bicycle travel, which is usually a multi-day journey that takes cyclists on a journey to explore a particular region or destination. A bike tour is different from a traditional cycling race or event, as it is not a competitive event, but rather an opportunity for cyclists to explore the countryside and take in the sights and sounds of the local area. Bike tours typically involve cycling over a variety of terrain, often including hills, mountains, and flat surfaces, and often passing through small villages and towns.
Bike tours are becoming increasingly popular, with statistics showing that the number of bike tourists is growing each year. According to the Adventure Cycling Association, the number of bike tourists in the US has increased by an estimated 120% from 2006 to 2017. It is estimated that in 2017, more than 1.6 million people in the US were engaged in bicycle touring.
Bike tours are a great way to explore a region and to experience the local culture and sights. They provide cyclists with an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to explore the countryside in a relaxed and leisurely manner. Bike tours are also a great way to stay fit and active as they involve a lot of physical activity.
Overall, bike tours provide an enjoyable and rewarding experience for cyclists of all levels and abilities, and are a great way to explore a region and to experience the local culture and sights.
Where Did the Term 'Bike Tour' Come From?
The term 'bike tour' first appeared in the early 1900s, as an offshoot of the bicycle touring movement that began in Europe. The first recorded instance of the term was in the French magazine La Vie au Grand Air in 1902. It was used to describe a long-distance cycling journey, usually with overnight stays.
The concept of bicycle tour was popularized by the British Cyclists’ Touring Club (CTC), which was founded in 1878. The CTC encouraged people to go on cycling trips, and soon the term 'bike tour' began to spread throughout Europe.
Today, the term is used all around the world to refer to any kind of cycling trip, whether it’s a day trip or a multi-week expedition. Bike tours are popular among cyclists of all skill levels, from recreational riders to hardcore cyclists.
