(lifestyle.com)
Updated: 2007-04-29 10:14

*Ride through the mountains

Route 1:Deshengmen-Yanqing County-110 National Way-Yudushan Exit

Description: This route is long, so riders are advised to spend one night at Yanqing County.

Scenic spots: Along this route you can pass by the Great Wall at Badaling. Cyclists can also check out the Apricot Flower Festival in Yanqing County which lasts until June. Shenqi Yeshanxia, or miraculous wild canyon is a nice place to go for its well-preserved rural landscape.

Route 2:Hangtianqiao-Moshikou-Dayu-Shuangyu-Jietai Temple-Tanzhe Temple-Sushuling Tunnel

Description: Beware the 108 National Way part of this route has heavily-polluted air. If you don't want to go through this stretch, take an early exit at Tanzhe Temple.

Scenic spots: As the Chinese saying goes, "To decide whether a mountain is famous, we should see whether it has a famous temple". It's believed that temples represent the essence of a mountain. This route has two temples to visit: Jietai Temple and Tanzhe Temple. Spring time is ideal for making pilgrimages, so many cyclists may also go and worship Buddha while enjoying the ride. And while you're there, sample vegetarian dishes from Jiafu Restaurant in Taizhe Temple.

Where to rent a bicycle

Beijing Kingdom Bike Rental
Location: B402, Xipeilou, Oriental Plaza, No.218 Wangfujing Dajie
Tel: 010-85494541/13381400738

Beijing Just Service Rental Ltd
There are many chain stores around the city and they accept online reservations.
Tel: 010-63182396
E-mail: A@bikerental.com.cn
Web: http://www.bikerental.com.cn/indexe.htm　

Tips for long distance cycling

1. The bike saddle should not be too soft and at the same level or higher than the hand grips.
2. Carry one or two spare tires as well as equipment to change tires.
3. Clock your distance so that you can monitor your speed and distance.
4. Carry high calorie snacks like chocolates, and energy bars to give yourself enough energy on the way. Don't forget water too!
5. Raise your bottom off the saddle occasionally when riding to facilitate blood circulation.

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