Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
IfyouarethinkingoftakingabiketoMadagascar,doit;you'llloveit.Onmostofthe
roads you will be more comfortable than anyone in motorised transport. The simpli-
city and strength of the humble bike will get you virtually anywhere, bring you closer
to the wonderful people of the island and allow you to see things that you would miss
if you travelled any other way.
Ifyouintend to cycle between the major centres and in the more developed parts of
the island, then you can plan as for touring but in tough conditions. You will need a
mountain bike as the tarred roads can be broken, especially after rains, and there are
many unmade roads. You should carry a good supply of spares and tools, some food
and plenty of container capacity for water, though you probably will find enough to
eat and drink in most areas, as well as places to stay. If you plan to go into more re-
mote areas and to tackle the smaller roads, then here are some tips.
THE BIKE
What you need to think is simplicity, strength and self sufficiency. Don't
take it if it can't be fixed with the tools you carry yourself, or with a hammer by
a Malagasy mechanic. Fit a new chain and block, carry spare spokes, brake blocks,
cables, inner-tubes and take plenty of oil (the dust is unbelievable). Go with the
strongestwheelsyoucanafford,andthefattesttyresyoucanfit(1.95minimum).You
can pick up cheap bike parts in the larger towns. Bill adds: 'Take at least two dozen
patches for punctures, a chain riveter, a few dozen plastic cable ties plus ten jubilee
clips.'
ON THE BIKE
Lex: 'Forget panniers unless you are staying on good roads. A
20-35-litre backpack heldawayfromyourbackwithmeshforventilation isideal: it's
more flexible, stays with you at all times, and you do get used to it. A rear rack with
a rack bag is a good addition, and allows you to carry heavy tools/food/water away
from your back.' Bill: 'Only front panniers break off, they tend not to survive Mala-
gasy roads. Sturdy back panniers are necessary - tie them together so you don't lose
them on bumpy roads; a backpack makes you more tired.'
CLOTHING
You need two sets, one for cycling and one for socialising/resting. If
you are going to explore the deserts, I advise the 'Beau Geste' style of hat with peak
on front, and flap on back. General purpose shorts, with cycling short inners under-
neath (two pairs minimum) are ideal. Also take leather cycling gloves (artificial ma-
terials disintegrate with the sweat and the heat); footwear of the trainer/walking boot
variety is ideal, again go for natural materials; lightweight socks, with a clean set of
underwear spare at all times. I find an Arabic scarf a fantastic all-purpose bit of kit:
sleepunderit,dryyourselfwithit,useitasapicnicblanketorheadcoveringfordust-
storms etc. Bandannas are a useful addition and keep the sweat out of your eyes. Just
