Sunday, May 11, 2008

Great Bike Deal, Europe By Train + Bike

by Larry Lagarde

Superlite Folding Bike On eBay
Here's an update on the brand new 22.5 lb Superlite folding bike that I placed on the auction block at eBay. Currently, the high bid on this new folding bike is $50 and there is no reserve. Given that the auction ends tomorrow and that the MSRP on this bike is $209 (I sell it for $189), it's very possible that someone is going to get an extremely good deal.

eBay folding bike auction details

Traveling Europe By Train & Bike
If you're thinking about using your bike and Europe's incredible rail network to tour the European continent, make sure you take along a folding bike. EU member countries (especially Germany) have been updating their rolling stock to high speed railcars with less room for luggage. As a result, routes that previously accommodated standard size bicycles no longer have room or have become impractical to use. Apparently though, restrictions do not apply to folding bikes.

If you don't have a folding bike, you might be able to rent a basic bike in some cities or at some railway stations; however, taking your own folding bike and packing light are an incredible way to see Europe. In fact, if you're short on time, consider sleeping on one of Europe's great night trains and taking your bike to tour during the day. Typically, these comfortable trains depart from one major tourist destination (like Paris, Amsterdam or Berlin) and deliver you to another great destination (Vienna, Zurich, Barcelona, etc.) the following morning.

Europe is very bicycle friendly so once you arrive at your destination, cycling to most tourist attractions is a cinch. All major rail stations rent luggage lockers so just leave your things at the station, get on your bike & go.

More about bikes on European trains

1 comment:

Miss Sarah said...

So glad you're an advocate of the folding bikes! When I tell people I'm putting it in a suitcase and riding it on my travels they think I'm crazy. I think it's a lot smarter than renting a bike that doesn't fit (I have short legs) and getting my skirt caught in some dumb mountain bike's spokes! Or riding some cruiser that is SO heavy. Go folding bikes!

S*