The following is a detailed guide to the food, accommodation and equipment of the 20-day Sichuan-Tibet 318 line riding:
1. Route planning.
The Sichuan-Tibet Route 318 is known as the "most beautiful highway" in China, with a total distance of about 2,100 kilometers and 21 mountains. Completing this route in 20 days requires a reasonable planning of the itinerary and time. Here's a reference itinerary:
Day 1: Chengdu.
Adapt to the plateau environment and visit Wuhou Temple, Jinli and other scenic spots.
Day 2-3: Chengdu - Ya'an.
Ride about 150 kilometers, passing through Dujiangyan and Qingcheng Mountain.
Day 4: Ya'an-Xingou.
Ride about 90 kilometers, passing through Tianquan County and Zishiguan.
Day 5: Xingou - Kangding.
The ride is about 67 kilometers and passes through the Erlang Mountain Tunnel.
Day 6: Kangding - Zheduo Mountain.
The ride is about 47 kilometers and passes through the Zheduo Mountain Pass (4,298 meters above sea level).
Day 7: Zheduoshan - Xindu Bridge.
The ride is about 60 kilometers through the town of Xinduqiao.
Day 8: Xinduqiao - Litang.
The bike is about 200 kilometers, passing through the Gaoersi Mountain Tunnel and the Scissors Bend Mountain Tunnel.
Day 9: Litang - Batang.
The bike is about 180 kilometers, passing through Haizi Mountain and Sister Lake.
Day 10: Batang - Mangkang.
Ride about 100 kilometers, passing through the Jinsha River Bridge and Dzongbala Mountain.
Day 11: Mangkang - Rumei.
Ride about 110 kilometers, passing through Kyaw Ba Mountain and Dongda Mountain.
Day 12: Rumei - Zogon.
Ride about 70 kilometers, passing through the Lancang River and Nu River.
Day 13: Zogon - Bonda.
The ride is about 107 kilometers, passing through Yela Mountain and 72 turns.
Day 14: Bonda - Eight Nights.
Ride about 95 kilometers, passing through the Nujiang Bridge and Anjura Mountain.
Day 15: Eight Nights - Ranwu.
The bike is about 90 kilometers, passing through Ranwu Lake and Midui Glacier.
Day 16: Ranwu - Bomi.
Riding about 130 kilometers, passing through Ranwugou and Tongmai.
Day 17: Bomi - Rulang.
Ride about 210 kilometers, passing through Sejila Mountain and Lulang Linhai.
Day 18: Lulang - Nyingchi.
The bike is about 70 kilometers, passing through Nyingchi Town and Niyang River.
Day 19: Nyingchi - Gongbu Jiangda.
The bike ride is about 130 kilometers, passing through the Linla Highway and the Niyang River.
Day 20: Gongbu Jiangda - Lhasa.
Ride about 270 kilometers, passing through Songduo and Mira Mountains to Lhasa.
2. Equipment preparation.
Here are some must-have gear and tools:
Bike: Choose a bike that's suitable for long rides, such as a mountain bike or road bike. Make sure the vehicle is in good condition and check key components such as brakes and tires.
Helmets and gloves: Important equipment to keep your head and hands safe. Choose helmets and gloves that meet safety standards to ensure their comfort and safety.
Cycling clothing: Wearing tight-fitting, breathable cycling clothing can reduce wind resistance and friction. Choosing professional cycling shoes can provide better pedaling and stability.
Sleeping bags and tents: If you're planning to camp on the way, prepare a suitable sleeping bag and tent to provide a comfortable resting environment.