When are you a touring cyclist?

[bikepacker]

What is the defining feature or trait of a touring cyclist? Where do we differ from leisure cyclists? Is the ammount of miles you do a year? Is it the places you visit in a year? What makes any of us a cycle tourist?

Let me have your views. Also perhaps a short outline on your touring in the last year.

So far this year because of unforseen problems I am down on my normal mileage. So far I have only done just over 7000 and camped 61 nights.

[mlj]

Hi Alan,
My mileage is also down, particularly since being tied to the Sittingbourne office for unpredicatable days each month! It is only likely to reach about 6500 this year, instead of 8000 or so. Also, I use the coach with Brompton to save on journey times which reduces my mileage. For older Potterers (our local club!), touring comes down to day-rides, whatever the base, and some of our over-80s can then only manage perhaps 30 miles per day. The enjoyment, however, remains the same, as you can hear when we meet for a couple or more hours in the pub!!!

[gary]

I think the definition of a touring cyclist is in the title somebody who tours on their cycle overnight at least either under canvas or b&b etc usually on a route they have made. A leisure cyclist is someone who occasionally rides there bike usually on a predetermined route. I don't think it has anything to do with miles as this would only encompass those who had the time to put the millage in I consider my self a touring cyclist as when ever I can I tour on my cycle but I have to balance this with earning a living and considering the family I probably only do 3000 4000 miles per year including day rides. Maybee when I retire I will double my millage ata least I hope so cant wait.
Regards Gary

[mlj]

Gary
I go with your definition: leisure cyclist for day tours, toruing for moving on. What is a cyclist who tours an area from fixed base for the week, though?
Mark

[gary]

Now I thought long and hard on this one (ok ten mins) I think this would have to be a touring cyclist with a twist of leisure. Depending on the amount of tea stops etc. What do you think?

[mlj]

Yep - touring cyclist with a twist sounds fine ..... oh! twist of leisure!