Spécial familles
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We recommend setting off on the Raid Bulles between late spring and early autumn, i.e. from May to September. This period offers generally favourable weather conditions, with pleasant temperatures and days long enough to make the most of the route! The trails can get quite muddy in spring after the winter rains. The summer months, meanwhile, allow you to discover the Champagne vineyards in all their splendour, with paths that are generally dry and passable.
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The starting point for the Raid Bulles is the town of Troyes. It's easily accessible by train, from Paris in particular, in an hour and a half. Please note: check the conditions for transporting your bike before setting off. While some companies accept two-wheelers without dismantling, others require them to be transported in a cover.
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The Raid Bulles is a gravel cycle route covering around 370 km from and to Troyes. It passes through picturesque villages, wine-growing hillsides and forests, with gravel roads winding through the vineyards of the Champagne region. The more technical central section passes through the Barséquanais region, with steep climbs and fast descents.
For more technical information, visit Komoot: https: //www.komoot.com/fr
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The Raid Bulles has specific markings on the ground. Nevertheless, to follow the route, it's more practical to use a GPS or navigation application, with the route downloaded beforehand. This helps you stay on the right track, especially in rural and forested areas where there can be a lot of intersections!
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The Gravel Raid Bulles is considered to be of intermediate to advanced difficulty. The 371km route has an altitude difference of 4,350m, with steep climbs and technical descents, especially in the vineyard and forest sections. The gravel roads and trails can be demanding, requiring good physical condition and a degree of cycling skill. Cyclists used to long distances and varied terrain will find this raid stimulating, while beginners should prepare themselves with shorter rides before embarking on this adventure!
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You'll find plenty of places to eat along the Raid Bulles route! The wine-growing villages are perfect for sampling local dishes in traditional inns or bistros. You can also stop for a quick meal in local bakeries serving regional specialities. Towards the middle of the route, the small towns and villages also offer places where you can have a full meal to recharge your batteries before continuing your adventure!
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On the Raid Bulles, it's essential to prepare your equipment well and to remain vigilant throughout the route!
- Make sure your bike is in perfect condition, with suitable tyres and effective brakes, and take a repair kit with you for any unforeseen problems.
- Use a GPS or navigation app to follow the route.
- Adapt your speed to the conditions of gravel paths, mud or steep descents, and watch out for obstacles such as roots and stones.
- Respect other road users, such as pedestrians and animals, and call out when you overtake them.
- Check the weather forecast before setting off and prepare accordingly.
- Don't forget to stay hydrated (not just with Champagne!) and eat regularly to maintain your energy levels.
- Respect the rules of the road and be careful at junctions!*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, and should be consumed in moderation.
