DAY 3 BIKE-PACKING FROM ENGLAND TO PRAGUE | CYCLING 191 MILES IN GERMANY | Amy Cycling Adventures
Video DAY 3 BIKE-PACKING FROM ENGLAND TO PRAGUE | CYCLING 191 MILES IN GERMANY with Amy Cycling Adventures
Video DAY 3 BIKE-PACKING FROM ENGLAND TO PRAGUE | CYCLING 191 MILES IN GERMANY with Amy Cycling Adventures YouTube Channel.
DAY 3 BIKE-PACKING FROM ENGLAND TO PRAGUE | CYCLING 191 MILES IN GERMANY
Amy Cycling Adventures: Battling the Elements on Two Wheels
On day three of her bikepacking journey to Prague, Amy found herself facing one of the most challenging rides of her life. As she peered out of her window, the deluge outside resembled someone pouring bucket after bucket of water from the sky. The forecast indicated unyielding rain and winds gusting up to 40 mph, making it not just a test of endurance, but a lesson in adaptability and decision-making for the aspiring globetrotter.
The Day’s Plans: Adapting to the Weather
The ambitious plan was to cycle 193 miles that day, with a subsequent 188 miles to get closer to the targeted 600 km. However, with conditions rapidly deteriorating, Amy and her companion Kyle found themselves reevaluating their itinerary. After contemplating a train for part of their journey, they ultimately decided to remain on two wheels, albeit with a flexible approach.
“It might be unsafe out there,” Amy remarked. They both understood that pushing through in hazardous conditions could have dire consequences. The ethos of their trip revolved around training for a round-the-world cycle, and experiencing such challenges now would prepare them for the uncertain conditions of international cycling.
Preparing for the Ride: Essential Gear
As the rain continued to pour, packing breakfast was an adventure in itself. Amy found the Dutch breakfast offerings puzzling, with chocolate sprinkles on a sandwich being particularly eye-catching. However, preparation also extended to their gear. “I need waterproof trousers,” she concluded, as the reality of riding in the rain began to set in. She had previously resisted such items, fearing they would cause discomfort in warmer conditions.
Clad in layers of protection, they finally ventured into the storm. “It’s definitely going to be a character-building ride today,” Amy said, bracing herself for the challenge ahead. The reality of bikepacking was often romanticised until one encountered the unrelenting elements that nature could throw at them.
The Journey Begins: Facing the Elements Head-On
Starting in Ruena in the Netherlands, they hoped to navigate through Bremen and reach their destination safely. The first 35 miles were manageable, but soon after, the rain intensified. “I’ve never ridden in such heavy rain,” Amy noted, as puddles collected in her bib shorts.
Kyle attempted to maintain morale, joking about the absurdity of their situation. But deep down, they both knew that the day held more challenges than anticipated. Shivering cold and soaked, they pressed on while appreciating the well-maintained cycle paths that the Netherlands had to offer.
Embracing the Changes: New Country, New Challenges
Despite the harsh weather, Amy was excited to be cycling into Germany for the first time. “Guten Tag!” she exclaimed when entering the new country, though they quickly discovered the border was unceremoniously marked with nothing more than a shift in road conditions.
However, as they progressed, their spirits dampened further when confronted with cobblestone streets and relentless rain. “I’ve had drier baths,” Amy stated, her sense of humour holding strong despite the trials of the day.
The Realisation: A Test of Resolve
With the miles accumulating, their resolve began to wear thin. Kyle’s cold hands struggled to retrieve energy gels, and Amy noticed how their surroundings reflected their experiences. “You don’t get stories like this without a bit of struggle,” she mused.
A brief respite came in the form of a bakery stop, where warm pastries provided a welcome distraction. As they sat inside, they exchanged laughter and experiences, recounting anecdotes of previous rides which made the burdens of the day feel lighter.
After an exhausting 191.3 miles, they finally reached their destination. The tangible weariness hung in the air; every muscle ached, yet the accomplishment held a profound sense of fulfilment. “We did it,” Amy exclaimed, as they shared a hot shower and settled down for a simple meal that they would have been grateful for even in perfect weather.
What’s Next: The Path Forward
Rested, albeit exhausted, they began planning their next leg of travel towards Hanover, with an eye on the weather. “Tomorrow is another day of cycling, and it’s looking a bit better,” Amy said, still treasuring the small victories they’d achieved that day. Regardless of the hardships, the journey was about more than just miles; it was about growth, resilience, and the stories that would one day be shared with others.
As Amy and Kyle prepare for their next adventure, they remain committed to their goal of raising funds for mental health charity Shout. “Every mile we ride not only gets us closer to our destination but also helps us make a difference,” Amy concluded. Through their determination and spirit, each challenging moment becomes a stepping stone towards a more significant cause.
The journey continues for these intrepid cyclists, proving that facing the elements is just part of the adventure—a narrative shaped equally by trials and triumphs.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Amy Cycling Adventures and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.