Check the Web before you go at www.summerfeet. net, www.trails.com or www.backroads.com for bike tours, routes and trails.

If you're like me, however, you'll want to take your own two-wheeler. That way you can ride wherever and whenever you want and the thing will fit your body and your shoes.

Taking your bicycle on the plane isn't that big a deal. But if you're going somewhere out of the way, make sure there's room on smaller aircraft for your bike.

Get a cardboard box from a bike shop. Remove the front wheel, handlebars, seat and pedals and throw in some bubble wrap. Before you tape up the box, make sure everything is inside. Bicycle wheels don't qualify as carry-on luggage.

Another hint: Give the shuttle or taxi driver a little extra tip or they'll frown at you.

The airline will charge you anywhere from $50 to $100 one way for the bike. On the way home, the bike box is a great place to stash extra stuff you've acquired along the way.

The next challenge is hauling the thing around once you arrive - if your travel plans also include a car. That means taking a bike rack or renting a minivan or crossover vehicle, like the Chrysler Pacifica. With the Pacifica, you can lock your bike inside, and crossover vehicles (inexplicably) rent for a lot less than minivans.

After all that, the cycling had better be pretty good. So make sure you plan well - and don't forget your bike shoes.

- Christopher Smart