Conseils

Recommandations

Equipement

Sunglasses and cream to provide protection against the sun.
Double lighting is recommended, that is to say a dynamo system plus a battery set.
The front battery light and rear fixed red diode could provide the back up lighting.
At the front on our VTT type tandem (see the photo in 'Activités club / joyeux lurons'), we used a front wheel dynamo supplying a lamp on the handlebars, plus a helmet mounted alkaline battery lamp. At the rear we had a box of alkaline batteries supplying a fixed lamp of five red diodes.
The advantage of this equipment was that it enabled us to be seen from a distance, even when stopped, and the front man could read the road signs merely by turning his head.
Adequate spare batteries and lamps.
A fluorescent jacket or shoulder belt for night riding.
A small first aid kit and all repair items (tyre, tubes, repair outfit, spokes,….)
In case of rain, mudguards become very useful, helping to prevent a wet backside and back when the road is wet.
Modern cycling clothes, type 'Gore-Tex, have the advantage of being both light and weatherproof whilst allowing them to breathe. It is really essential to have one at the start.

Weather

Even if the days are sometimes hot, the nights are often chilly. The fatigue and lack of sleep increases the sensibility to the cold.
A start from the cold in the early morning, after a stop of several hours, provokes a strong sensation of cold.
The rain is another source of discomfort and complications. The ideal is to be able to change into dry clothing at the controls.
Very hot weather is also unwelcome. It exposes the body to the risk of dehydration and sun stroke. It makes the intake of solid foods difficult, exposing you to hunger knock. It is advisable to have liquid food available.
At last if your feet overheat protect them with some adhesive plaster i.e. Elastoplast.

Advice

You ride slower at night especially when fighting against sleep, and it is better to stop for a few hours at a control rather than become completely knackered. Fatigue and lack of sleep are poor partners.
If you do become very tired, have some food, try to get with a group, talk to other riders around you and think only of getting to the next control.
If your group is riding too fast, drop off and ease up for the next group for speed is not everything (less speed - more haste).

Health

The chamois in your shorts should be treated with cream ( ex: Cétavlon ) several times a day. Places that are subject to rubbing can be protected with strips of Elastoplast - cut the corners of to prevent them from turning up. If the rubbing continues use a cream of the type 'Biafine' which can also be use against sun burn.
Make sure that your position on the bicycle is correct.
A saddle too high or too far back - (pains behind the knees)
Saddle too low or too far forward - ( pains in front of the knees).
If your feet are getting too hot , protect them with some plasters - e.g. Elastoplast