Last Minute 2011 Etape du Tour Preparation

For all the Etappers our there, I've got a last minute reminder list for you (thanks to Martin for pointing out a broken link).

NOTE! My bib number is 1060! Come say hi – look for a polka dot helmet, Black Look586, and Ex Machina Racing on my bum (black knicks). Top will be black or white Ex Machina Racing top – TDF Tips is on the top so it's hard to miss!

Etape du Tour Medical Certificate

Don't forget you MUST have a medical certificate and present it when you register. No medical certificate, no Etape.

>> Download the medical certificate here [pdf].

More information from the official Etape du Tour site.

Cycling Trip Packing List

This will be the subject of a very forthcoming video post, but you can download VeloNomad Cycling Trip packing list here [600kB pdf].

Print it, use the advice, check the recommended products out, and remember: A Smart Cyclist Packs Light and Packs Smart.

Want to know why putting your helmet in your checked luggage is silly?

Then check out the VeloNomad helmet pod review.

Don't be stupid and put your helmet in your checked luggage.

For the bike bag crowd, check out the tres populaire VeloNomad Bike Bag Shoot Out post, and the EVOC Bike Bag Review.

Training for Etape du Tour

I'd be shocked if you'd not done any preparation for Etape 2011 by now. But, I'd also have a lot of admiration for your sense of derring do.

For those who've done little to no preparation, now is the time for an intense commando camp. Running, eating right (including minimal alcohol), billions of squats, weights, short intense rides…it's time to get cracking.

For those who want to cram 12 weeks of training into 4, check out the VeloNomad Training for Etape guide.

Prepaid 3G Internet for Your Smartphone

If you want to save thousands of dollars on data roaming bill shock and avoid expensive international mobile data roaming cap (Telstra and Vodafone $300 WTF?) plans, check out the VeloNomad Prepaid Mobile Internet in France page.