Bike Rentals

Malaysia is still not sufficiently on the touring agenda to justify rental outlets. As is, for instance, Mallorca and other European favourites.

This will require you to pack and bring your own rig. Travelling with a bike box is a topic unto itself with many opinions on how to best go about it. Some airlines charge an extra fee, some don’t. Some do sometimes, some never – it’s hard to figure out. Whatever the case, get a bike box, dismantle the bike, pack it sturdily and pay the fee.

So far, for about 8 return trips from Europe to Kuala Lumpur we have yet to find reason for complaints.

Road Conditions

A common question. Most roads in Malaysia are well kept and extensively tarred. There will be the odd pot hole and road works going on, but all in all, it’s a comfortable ride. Malaysia drives on the left, due the British legacy.

Mozzies

They can be aggressive. But the buggers seem to retire around 9.00 in the evening, when we ourselves are hitting the sack. They tend to come out in the early evening with a taste for well used cycling legs. Pharmacies have a large array of repellants. Malaria is not a problem in Malaysia anymore and Dengue fever is rarely in outbreak.

Bike shops

The major cities have a choice of competent and accessorized bike shops, who are savvy to trends and carry the best and newest equipment. For a small fee they will, spruce up your bike and fine tune the gears. Also, they are eager for a bike chat and touring talk.

Food

Malaysia is known for her excellent kitchen, best enjoyed al fresco and prepared on flaming woks.

What might, at first glance, seem a health hazard will often keep some palatable secrets, and it’s worth it to sample the local dishes scattered all over the country. At road stalls or in restaurants, go for local. It’s tastes better in it’s cheaper.

Traffic Culture

Be warned. Cities are not accommodating to cyclists. But is not as suicidal as some would have you believe. In fact, are quite used to navigating the hords of mopeds, buzzing their zig-zag way around town. If you behave as a moped you have an advantage.

The countryside is safer, with wide berths given to cyclers.

Punctures

It happens. But rarely. Just in case, bring three spare tubes and, of course, your pump along with your multitool.

Visa and passport

Visas are only needed if you plan to stay more than three months. Your passport must be valid 6 months longer than your stay.

Religion

But it’s a Muslim country, isn’t it? The question for some is top of mind, and indeed Malaysia is an islamic nation. However, they have managed to organize their society around a liberal thinking and harmonizing of religions to include all sorts of beliefs, to reflect Malaysia’s many ethniticies. Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Animism and many more compose the central elements in societal cohesion, and wherever you go you will see and experience a multitude of religious practices. Temples, mosques, and churches are abundant to show that it is possible to live alongside each other in tolerance of neighboring Gods.

Sun Screen

Factor at least 30 is a prudent precaution to keep from burning. Don’t worry, your cycling tan will not suffer. Hours in the sun will definately show.

Beer and Booze

Beer, wine, and alcohol is heavily taxed and expensive. European pricies. Sometimes, particularly in Muslim areas impossible to get. But we have a few tricks, and a stash in the SAG car – cold and ready after a tiring days ride.

Bike setup

Be prepared for the climbs and make sure to fit the 30 tooth sprocket. Even if you don’t use it, it’s nice to have. The ideal setup is a compact 52/36 in front and 12-30 in the back.

Fresh tires, somewhat fresh cabling, good brake pads, two bidons on the frame, and a saddle bag.

Climate

Our best advice on how to get around the heat is an early start. Even before day break you should be on your bike and ready to great the rising sun. This is easily the most pleasant part of the day so make the most of it.

Affordable

In tune with Malaysian cost of living, everything is very cheap. If you go local expect to spend 100 Ringgits a day on food, lodging, transportation, and extras.