The Michigander Bicycle Tour

Wardrobe Essentials

• Helmet - All riders must wear a bicyle helmet. No exceptions.
• Cycling Jersey - When registering, order your Michigander Jersey, not only is it a great memento of your accomplishment, but the material wicks away moisture, keeping you dry. The back pockets are handy for your cash, ID and credit cards too. 
• Cycling Shorts - Chafing is the worst, get good cycling shorts, either the skintight Lycra or the relaxed mountain bike style. 
• Gloves - We love cycling gloves. They absorb perspiration, give you a better grip and prevent blisters. Pads reduce road shock and that is a great thing.
• Shoes - Firm soles are key. Proper cycling shoes are best with or without toe clips. Do wear socks, keeping your feet dry and comfortable is incredibly important. For those that have yet to invest in a cycling wardrobe, because there is less mileage on the 2-Day Michigander, gym shoes will work, but be sure to select shoes with a firm sole so you don't slip off of your pedals and can bear down when needed. No flip flops.
• Sunglasses - 100% UV protection, unbreakable lenses, wraparounds are suggested for wind and especially if you wear contacts.

For excellent cycling apparel (and they make ours too), visit Primal.

BICYCLE ESSENTIALS

• Hydration Pack
• 2 water bottles and cages to hold them (mounted)
• Saddle Bag (under seat)
• Handlebar Bag
• Handlebar Map Holder/Cue Clips
• Cargo Rack plus trunk bag
• Headlight
• Taillight
• Lock
• Cycling Computer/GPS/Cellphone with RideWithGPS App
• Mirror (handlebar or helmet or both)
• Fenders (mud flies up your backside when the road is wet)
• Straps/Bungees (for strapping things to your bike should you shop along the way)
• Patch Kit, Tire Levers, Spare Tubes
• Pump and Pressure Gauge
• Cycling Multi-Tool

ESSENTIAL ITEMS

• Medical Emergency Contact Card
• ICE on your cell phone
• Small First Aid Kit
• Moist Towelettes
• Travel Toilet Paper/Tissues
• Note: we have a mobile bicycle repair service along the trail and in camp daily on the entire ride for repair needs for a fee. 
• CO2 inflator with cartridges
• Spare Spokes
• General purpose multi-tool
• Assorted nuts and bolts
• Spare tire
• Chain tool
• Replacement chain links
• Lubricant
• Brake and derailleur cable
• Spare cleats

STATE LAW

Even if you live in Michigan, it's always best to read up on tips for riding safely and legally in the state. Click to read What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know.

TRAINING
GETTING READY FOR THE MICHIGANDER: A SUGGESTED TRAINING SCHEDULE

The Michigander Bicycle Tour suggests that you and your bike come prepared for a challenge. The best ways to get your body ready for the challenge is to ride, ride, and RIDE. Start riding in spring or early summer riding 1-2 times a week gradually increasing to 2-3 times a week and increasing your time and distance each week. Close to the ride, do back-to-back days of approximately 40 miles each day. An important thing is to get what we call seat time. Spend time on the bike to get your seat in condition for sitting long periods of time on a bicycle seat.

Below is a suggested training schedule. Depending on your condition and ability you may have to adjust to what works for you. A mountain bike or a hybrid (mountain/road) bike is recommended if you are going to ride the trails. The trails on the 2020 tour are all paved, and a road bike may be used as well, all road surfaces are paved road.

MAY
Weeks 1 and 2
Weeks 3 and 4
Day 1 - Ride 10 mi.
Day 1 - Ride 12 mi.
Day 2 - Ride 12 mi.
Day 2 - Ride 15 mi.
Day 3 - Ride 20 mi.
Day 3 - Ride 30 mi.

JUNE
Day 1 - Ride 15 mi.
Day 2 - Ride 15 mi.
Day 3 - Ride 15 mi.
Day 4 - Ride 40 mi. (week 1)
45 mi (week 2), 50 mi. (week 3)
50 mi.(week 4)

JULY

Same as June up to the ride. Early in July do a back-to-back of 40-50 mi. each day