Cycling in summer – our top 5 tips
Finally back on the bike again! Cycling is an environmentally friendly mode of transport for the summer days. Just make sure you have the right clothing, the best routes and healthy snacks on board. And bike fans who want to broaden their horizons will no doubt be aware of the latest fashionable vehicle – the cargo bike. Very handy when you want to dash off to the weekly market or collect the kids from crèche! In transport and logistics, Dole cleverly focuses on sustainable solutions in order to reduce energy consumption in its logistics centres and minimise waste production. We can reveal how it’s done. A summery extra: the fruitiest food ideas from Dole for your bike tour.
Tip 1: Choose the right clothing
Think about the right clothing for cycling in summer. Choose light and breathable fabrics that will wick away the sweat, keep you cool and dry, and enable good air circulation. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs sweat. Tip: Wear light-coloured clothes, as they absorb less heat and thus protect you from getting too hot. Cycle wear with ventilation zips or mesh inserts are also a super idea. Ideally, wear sunglasses with UV protection in order to protect your eyes from harmful rays. Don’t forget a sunscreen with a sufficient sun protection factor.
Tip 2: Find the best cycle routes
Want to discover the best cycle paths in your area? Look for cycle paths, cycling routes or streets with minimum traffic that are suitable for cycling. Local bike maps, travel guides or cycling club websites can also help you find suitable routes. Another option is to use online platforms or apps that recommend cycling routes. Swap tips and information with other bike fans, who you will find in forums or on social media, for example. Be mindful of safety when choosing your routes. Avoid roads with heavy volumes of traffic or routes with poor visibility. For more variety, explore different areas, regions or cities to discover new cycling experiences.
Tip 3: Bring healthy snacks for your bike tour
You burn a lot of energy when cycling, so it’s important to keep your strength up on a trip. Pack healthy snacks like fresh fruit, nuts or muesli bars to replenish your energy and keep you feeling pleasantly full. As fruit experts here at Dole, we have of course the perfect ideas for fruity snacks that will make your bike tour even tastier. How about our raspberry and almond muesli bars or our banana and peanut energy balls? Remember also to drink enough fluids while you are out and about. You should always have a full bottle of water with you during the summer.
Tip 4: Use your bike as a means of transport
Cycling is a sustainable way of transporting your stuff! The bike is not only a super idea for sport and leisure but is also an environmentally friendly means of transport. Cycle to the supermarket, weekend market or to work, university or the crèche. In doing so, you can actively contribute to reducing CO2 and improve your fitness. A basket or rack is a good option if you are using your bike to run daily errands or transport small items. For larger or heavier loads, such as crates or shopping, you can use panniers or a bike trailer. For even greater transport options or a family outing, a cargo bike is ideal.
Did you know? Dole also prioritises sustainable solutions in the area of transport and logistics in order to make our contribution to environmental protection. We are aware of our responsibilities and actively work to reduce energy consumption in our logistics centres and minimise the amount of waste. We also want to reduce emissions from our own company ships by 30% by 2030. One step in this direction was retrofitting our container fleet. Even using solar-powered trucks to transport our fruit is nothing new for us.
Tip 5: Be mindful of safety
Always stay safe when you are out and about. To make sure that you can cycle safely, check the condition of your bike regularly, in particular tyre pressure, brakes and the chain. Ensure that you always have a small first aid kit, a mobile phone and key contact information for emergencies, in case you get a puncture or have an accident during your bike ride. Always tell someone about the route you plan to take and your expected return time.
And so the adventure begins!
Your Dole team