Spring is the perfect time to explore Beijing by bicycle. The sun is out, and there's a light breeze to keep cool. But time is of the essence, as the Chinese capital's spring period is short. You can rent or buy a bicycle and explore some of the following routes:

 

*Head to the waters

 

Route 1: Hangtianqiao-Moshikou-Junzhuang-Xiaweidian-Dongfanghong Tunnel-Jinyukou-Zhenzhuhu (pearl lake) Reservoir

 

Description: This is an easy route for the most part, except for the 8km upward uphill road leading to Dongfanghong Tunnel and the bumpy last few kilometers.

 

Scenic spots: As its name suggests, Zhenzhuhu (pearl lake) Reservoir boasts many large clams. It is also nicknamed "Little Lijiang" for its beautiful scenery.

 

If you continue riding ahead after reaching Zhenzhuhu Reservoir, you can also visit Zhaitang Reservoir, the largest in Mentougou County, and the picturesque village Chuandixia. Both are not far away.

 

Route 2: Beiqinglu-Daoxiang Lake Wetland-Nalan Xingde Museum

 

Description: This is a colorful route as it has many scenic views.

 

Scenic spots: The municipal government built a wetland park around Daoxiang Lake. May and June are the best months to visit the park, which is filled with reeds, and Black and white swans. You can also try your hand at fishing too.

 

Nalan Xingde Museum is dedicated to Nalan Xingde, who was a famous writer during the Qing Dynasty. It's said the story of the well-known Chinese classic Dream of the Red Mansion is a retelling of the real life of Nalan. What's also interesting is that the layout of the Nalan Xingde Museum follows the pattern of a traditional Chinese courtyard, or Siheyuan.

 

*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.

 

(lifestyle.com April 30, 2007)